MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF PILTAES
Let’s take a look at how Pilates improves mental health:
1. It improves memory
A group of researchers from the University of Illinois, reported in their journal of physical activity and health that those who practice Pilates have superior brain function after a mindful session, as compared to those who perform aerobics.
2. It trains your brain
Learning new activities is proven to make our brain healthy, as it challenges us to learn new things. Several studies have proven that learning a new movement or modification in a Pilates routine provides just the effect we are looking for, by challenging the body and mind at the same time.
3. Deeper muscle activation means better function of the nervous system
A healthy nervous system means better coordination between your brain and other parts of your body. It also helps in the release of stress-fighting and mood-boosting hormones.
4. Calm mind and emotions
Pilates lets you concentrate your attention on your body. Whether you want it or not, you must clear your mind of any distractions if you are performing Pilate’s coordination work on the reformer, or if you are just visualizing an innerspring in your core that your instructor is talking about.
5. It relieves stress and tension in our body
Pilates relieve stress built up in the muscles through gentle stretching and gradual conditioning. Joseph Pilates said, ‘A body free from nervous fatigue and tension is the ideal shelter provided by nature for housing a well-balanced mind, fully capable of successfully meeting all the complex problems of modern lifestyle.’
