 Now that we’re about to pop the champagne and welcome the New Year and leave 2020 behind, it’s time to embrace the gift of new beginnings. There’s a blank canvass sitting in front of us – with 365 pages for us to fill with stories of laughter, triumph, hope, and new memories. While you don’t need to wait for a magical day like New Year’s or a Monday, many people like to utilize “New Year's Resolutions” as a way to focus on their goals for the year and start fresh. Remember, you have the power to hit the “reset” button whenever you feel the inspiration flowing through your views. However, in the spirit of opening our hearts to growth and new beginnings, I invite you to kickstart the 2021 year by being purposeful, intentional, and saying farewell to stress and anxiety. What better way to exercise a little self-care than by shifting your mindset to one that focuses on body positivity and respect, along with allowing happiness to fill your soul. Oftentimes, the New Year rolls around and we feel pressured (even obligated) to hop on some trendy diet bandwagon. Or, even worse, we buy into the crap littering social media and magazines – like what constitutes an “ideal” body. Don’t let workout and diet culture capitalize on your insecurities – because at the end of the day, “perfect” doesn’t exist – nor is it realistic. However, embracing your body, confidence, and happiness is achievable. And once achieved, it’ll infuse your life with a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment. If you’re sick of the bullsh*t – and let’s face it: who isn’t? – then it’s time to put your health & well-being before photoshopped images and silly mantras like “Train like a beast, look like a beauty.” Seriously...eye roll. So, why Pilates? And what kind of benefits can you reap from diving into my 10-day Pilates + Self Care Reset Challenge? Here’s a peek. 1 | Fuel Your Brain with HappinessExercise is often correlated with all the physical benefits you’ll gain. And there’s no denying Pilates is an effective way to build a long, lean, toned physique. But, what about training your brain? Pilates was designed in a manner that uses gentle, mindful movements as a way to build a strong mind-body connection. Through focused control and an emphasis on breathing techniques, you’ll generate new neural pathways within your brain and positively impact your mental health. You know what tastes like a little slice of heaven? Besides red velvet cake with white chocolate (my personal favorite)? Discovering your own personal oasis. A place where you can celebrate self-love and leave all of life’s little stressors – like work, finances, responsibilities, and relationships – at the door. Yes, it sounds too good to be true. But, it exists. I’m living proof. And in addition to finding a little peace and tranquility in your life, Pilates is also known for bolstering cognitive functioning and improving memory. 2 | Activate Your Muscles on a Deeper, Holistic LevelThere isn’t a single exercise system out there that literally ANYONE (even fitness newbies) can do that engages ALL of your muscles, effectively conditioning your entire body in one 15-20 minute session. Why did I ever think HIIT was the answer? Pilates activates your muscles on such a deep level, that you'll begin moving areas of your body that have been patiently waiting like Sleeping Beauty for someone to wake them up. For instance, everyone harps on scoring “six-pack abs.” In reality, your core consists of 29 – not just six – muscles. As you begin using these lonely muscles, you’ll enjoy a myriad of benefits, such as cleansing your nervous system. When your nervous system is in optimal shape, it facilitates better communication between your brain and body – like dispensing crucial mood-boosting and stress-fighting hormones. 3 | Naturally Calm Nerves & Ease TensionMeditation and mindfulness are a big facet of integrating Pilates into your self-care routine. And, in case you’re wondering, that doesn’t mean you have to take a vow of silence and join a Buddhist Monastery. As Ellen Langer, a Psychology professor at Harvard and expert in the concept of mindfulness says, “Though the concept originates in ancient Buddhist, Hindu and Chinese traditions, when it comes to experimental psychology, mindfulness is less about spirituality and more about concentration: the ability to quiet your mind, focus your attention on the present, and dismiss any distractions that come your way.” By practicing Pilates, you can focus your attention on your body. The concentration and coordination required in performing Pilates exercises allow you to clear your mind of distractions and reap the benefits of meditation – without feeling as though you’re wasting your time simply sitting still. Since icing is one of the tastiest parts of a cake, I figured I’d add a little here by listing out the advantages of incorporating Pilates into your weekly self-care routine.
To quote Joseph Pilates, “Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness.” Who’d pass up a good dose of feel-good endorphins? No one.  10-day Pilates + Self Care ResetThrough Pilates, you’ll learn not only to respect all that your body is capable of, but actually feel confident in your own skin. As you build strength, balance, and flexibility, you’ll also see a corresponding improvement in your physical and emotional health. One of the biggest hurdles? Mustering up the motivation to get started. That’s why I created this easy-to-follow, convenient Pilates reset to kick-off the New Year (or a random Tuesday in March) with a renewed commitment to self-care.
Pilates has helped me:
This is the transformation I experienced. It has impacted my life to such a degree that I’m inspired to help other women reap the same rewards. So, how do you get started? Your Pre-Reset Checklist:
Ready to feel your best?
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