Most people know of or have experienced the benefits of Yoga and Pilates on our minds and bodies. But what does this mean in an age of ‘social distancing, ‘face coverings’ and the constant aroma of hand hygiene gel?
Whether you are new to Yoga and Pilates or a regular practitioner, there is something for everyone taking a virtual class. If you have never found the confidence to enter a studio or if you prefer to find a space at the back of the class, now is your time to shine! Apart from your cat or dog or other pets, no-one will be watching you except your teacher. You can practice in the kitchen, your garden or anywhere else with space for a mat and your mobile device.
If you’re more experienced, then Zoom classes are the perfect way to try out all those poses or movements that before you might have avoided in the studio. It’s a great way to deepen your practice and become more in touch with your body and breath.
In these strange times, many of us are working from home, probably using chairs and desks which aren’t really designed for spending hours bent over a laptop. Add in to that the additional anxieties of home-schooling and childcare; and it’s easy to see why so many people are feeling stressed. Many people have started running or walking for much longer distances, but without any supporting exercises to help with stretching and avoid injuries.
Besides the physical benefits of Yoga and Pilates, they also help our minds through breath work. Deep breathing instantly calms our central nervous system. Being reminded during a class to match your breath to your movement, or even just to breathe deeply can help your body to deal with being in a state of permanent stress.
Also, attending virtual classes allows us to still be part of a like-minded community. It’s easy to feel lonely during this time, and seeing lots of (virtual) smiling faces before and after the class can be a real boost. This adds to the natural high that exercise also gives us!
As a teacher, I’m constantly learning to adapt my teaching style to suit the ‘new normal’ and this means as a student you will benefit. We are all on a huge learning curve together.
Yoga and Pilates will teach you more about your body, you will become stronger, more flexible and have more fluidity of movement. Best of all you’ll be part of ‘Jo’s Space’ community.
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