Pilates for the January blues

Have you got the January blues?

If the cold, grey, dark, wet weather, not enough day light hours, has got you feeling out of sorts, then Pilates might help you lift your physical body and mental spirits

Symptoms of the January Blues can range from simple grumpiness to depressing thoughts.

Some who suffer from this state might have difficulty getting up in the morning or find themselves sinking into dark, heavy thoughts.

When practicing Pilates to improve your mood, it is important to take a moment and try to put your finger on the nature of your blues. If it can be described as more of a heavy or sad, then its time to do something about it. It’s not easy to take the first step forward to make a change.

If this sounds like you, Pilates could help you to focus on a physical practice which can help to kick start your mind and body from negative thoughts and actions.

Concentrating on the Pilates breath will provide your body with oxygen and warmth.

When the body and mind are focused together, It is difficult to be negative when your mind and body are focused together when you concentrate on every Pilates movement.

Exercises can be helpful when fighting the January Blues.

1. Before you get out of bed, try starting each day with a smile and a stretch.
2. The first half of the Push Up allows the spine to flex forward, which brings blood and oxygen to the brain and this can aid in calming the mind.
3. Seated Spine Twist releases tension from the spine which in turn releases tension from the mind.
4. Seated Side Bend can relieve tension from the side of the spine.
5. Preparation Shoulder Bridge is a gentle backbend and there is a feeling of lifting and opening the heart. This exercise can stretch the intercostal muscles of the ribs and allows you to breathe deeper and expand lung capacity.
6. Child’s pose can gently place pressure on the pineal and pituitary glands in the forehead, stimulating feel-good hormones like melatonin and serotonin. All these poses can be very helpful for anxiety.

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Let us know how you get on.