I read an article the other day and it said, “Pilates isn’t a mind-body exercise in the meditative way that Yoga, Tai Chi, or Qi Gong are, but it does use your mind to influence and improve your body.”
It seems evident to me that this author has probably never experienced a Pilates workout! And in my study of Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and meditation, I believe that these great mind-body methods are more similar than one might think for improving whole-body health.
Here’s Why:
- All have underlying principles & philosophies behind the exercises. And even meditation (sitting still) is an exercise!
- Each Mind-Body method has a system of utilizing the breath, and specific breathing patterns to improve technique and maximize benefits from your practice.
- All require, concentration, coordination, and improve whole-body health, balance, and body control.
It’s not just, let’s move the body, but let’s be aware, in-tune, and conscious of what we’re doing, how, we’re doing it, the initiation point, end point, and in-between points for every movement.
I think it’s wonderful that we have options for focused fitness and enhanced wellness for improved mind-body health. There is a method out there to help meet the needs of each of us as individuals. And if you want to develop and fine-tune your skills, cross-training and exploring different mind-body methods may give you an increased appreciation for your body, health, and the ancient wisdom that is at the root of each of these techniques.
Look for my series of upcoming posts on the benefits of each of these great mind-body methods.
- Pilates
- Yoga
- Tai-Chi
- Qi Gong / Chi Gung
- Martial Arts
- Meditation
And I’m curious to know… What’s your #1 favorite Mind-Body Wellness method? Answer the survey, and if you have a moment – tell me why it’s your choice in the comment section below.
My response to this kind of assertion would not be as calmly put as yours. Everything you wrote in bold about being present and mindful in the midst of it is what matters. You could be digging a hole in your backyard or whatever. Incidentally I choose Meditation. I have been doing it for thirty years. Honestly I do it all day long if possible. Meditation is really just being in the moment.
When you we spend real time with our bodies and stretching we find certain postures that seem to click for us. Some we even agree on and are universal in nature. Organizing them into groups and naming them is an afterthought. Take lotus position for example. Before it was called “lotus position” they just referred to it as “that way you sit under the tree that occurred to you naturally and works so well”.
Hi Benjamin,
Thanks for sharing your insights! I too am enjoying more time in meditation, and find it a very practical and useful way to be in touch with myself and live happily in the moment. I do agree that in everything we do, all day long, we have the opportunity to be mindfully present to enjoy the moment.
Have a beautiful & blessed day!
For me I think yoga will do. And martial arts as well. Great way of exercising your mind and body.
I’ve tired quite a few different methods bu the one im most happy with is yoga. It helps you focus and slows things down allowing you to get the most out of the exercises and improve balance
I agree with you. I practiced Pilates throughout my professional dance career and it not only helped me to prevent injury and keep my body in peak form, but encouraged me to listen to my body and honor it.
Pilates is a great tool for the mind and body and should be shared with the public. I practice yoga and pilates and find great benefits from both of them.