On Coordination, Communication, and 8 more "C"s for Transformation
The work of Joseph Pilates, as The Amend Integrative Model (AIM) defines it, is “primary physical support for all faculties.” Our signature Somatic Movement and Pilates Practice, Pilates by AIM, is a “body first” practice. This means that we focus on the body and its movement, first and foremost. In other words, we pay close attention to the information we receive from the body and its sensory faculties. So, when it comes to defining “body-mind practice”, it’s important for clients to know that I began learning pilates over 40 years ago from a vantage point that was intentionally “non-psychological”* in orientation.
That said, and since body and mind, as defined by AIM, are “distinct yet inseparable aspects of the self”, we can simultaneously become aware of our “mental conditioning” as we practice Pilates by AIM. In other words, as we move and breathe, we take time to notice the thoughts, feelings, memories, and emotions that accompany the sensations we experience during practice. And, yes, this might sometimes feel like mind and body are at odds with each other. However, this “noticing” also allows an opening to our full human potential - in body, mind, and spirit.
Early on, I was fortunate to experience the pilates repertoire in a way that allowed my body to self-organize, whereas so many instructors are now taught to “adapt” the exercises which, frankly, often renders them unrecognizable and, at best, ineffective. If you are used to practicing pilates as simply a physical “workout”, for example, you might be surprised to learn that paying attention to other “parts” of your mentality can be of great benefit. And as you learn how to integrate this new awareness as you move and exercise, you will absolutely find that the quality your movement experience becomes much greater than the sum of its “parts.”
Fostering sustainable “Communication” and “Coordination” skills about movement practice (utilizing AIM!) is paramount to helping my clients practice the “mental and physical balance” that Joe Pilates wrote about. Through careful analysis and communication with my clients, I came to recognize the inherent, unique genius of the original exercises and philosophy. I continue to share that perspective with my clients. I’d love to give you an experience of the movement practice taught at Bodies Mind® and how we keep “moving through change”, Connect with me today!
*NOTE: Although I am not a psychologist, I am an enthusiastic supporter of psychological services. This recent article from Psychology Today, 8 Qualities to Unlock your True Self by Monica Johnson Psy.D, beautifully explains these qualities of self from the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model. You can find out more and view a video about the IFS Model here. Also here you’ll find a very helpful graphic (and you know we love graphics!) on the Psychology Today IG Page.