Is Pilates as Good as Everyone Says, [FIRST NAME GOES HERE]? +Labor Day Weekend Schedule


August 28, 2024

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Reformer fun on YouTube

Is Pilates as Good as Everyone Says?

According to a recent article in the New York Times, studies have found that Pilates - including Reformer and Yogalates - can help improve muscle endurance and flexibility, reduce chronic pain and lessen anxiety and depression.

Amelia Bell, writing for Women's Health Magazine, did Pilates Reformer for a month. She notes, "The results amazed me."

"The cushioning, height and instability of the rolling carriage with the variety of spring resistance provides all kinds of stability challenges that develop deep core strength and improved balance and coordination,' explains PT and founder of Heartcore, Jessie Blum.

‘The machine works the whole body resulting in a low impact method that integrates breath with movement and activates your deep core muscles."

I'd love to hear what you think, Reader. What benefits have you found, personally?

Me? I never imagined I would be happily playing badminton with my athletic 11-year old son - which I did last weekend.

As a former martial artist, I had really trashed my knee joints in my 20s. When those injuries were compounded by a car wreck, I just figured I wouldn't be able to go on long bike rides (usually very painful) or do any sports that required jumping, turning, stopping, starting, ever again.

I'm glad to say, "I was wrong."

Particularly because of Reformer, my knees are way stronger than they were in my 20s.

What do you think, Reader? Has anything happened for you since you started your practice? Hit reply and let me know!

​Women's Health Magazine Pilates article link​

​New York Times Pilates article link​

Labor Day Weekend Schedule

No classes Saturday 8/31 or Monday 9/2. Enjoy the long weekend!

Psst! Beginner Reformer coming soon!

Do you have a friend who could benefit from Reformer? Balance, tone, bone strength, posture - there is so much to enjoy! Let them know we will be adding a Beginner Reformer through Westford Rec this Fall. Stay tuned!

Practice via YouTube

Check out my YouTube channel for some fun home practices. Please leave a comment & give a thumbs up to let me know which ones you like.

Namaste,

Living Joyfully is here!

My app, Living Joyfully, is FREE and available to download from the app store on your phone!

Are you ready to uplevel your life in 2024? More joy? More balance? more well-being? Living Joyfully is a great source of inspiration & mindfulness teaching to speed you on your way!


Current Yogalates & Reformer schedule

​Yogalates ~ Wednesdays & Saturdays 8:30am, Westford Common Hall, 21 Brookside Road, Westford VT

​Reformer ~ Weekdays, Barn School Reformer Room, 217 Brookside Road, Westford VT


​Visit my website to learn more​

217 Brookside Road, Westford, VT 05494
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Hi, I’m a creator

How much Joy can you handle? I am a Yoga & Pilates Instructor and Wellness Coach - I help people feel better in their bodies so they can live more healthy, fun and passionate lives. My free newsletter, Living Joyfully, contains tips on better sleep, benefits of exercise and simple wellness hacks.

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