Nurturing The Body

Way back in April, I set myself a Thirty Day Challenge. 

& here we are in August! How did that happen?

The challenge was to do yoga daily  - this challenge did not quite work out....

I did do a few sessions.......

I started Pilates one to one sessions at the same time, to improve my back pain - a preventative measure rather than a treatment, which is what I usually go for.

Since my third session my back has been so much better, slowly building up my core muscles, strengthening my back, making connections and improving my flexibility. 

I find myself concentrating on my breathing more and noticing and adjusting my posture. 

Bonus - my tummy is looking flatter too!!

I now attend a class once or twice weekly. 

Although Pilates isn't particularly spiritual, it has enabled me to 'meditate' 

in the calming studio before everyone arrives for class, something I am only able to do when thoroughly chilled - I love it, me time. 

So, the thirty day yoga challenge.....didn't quite work out, but I do do Pilates exercises at home a couple of times a week - this counts right?

Who else does Pilates?
Who manages to motivate themselves to exercise at home?
XX

30 Day Challenge

Feels so long since I posted so I'm happy you are here!

I've had a mad week, both at home and work, chasing my tail whilst 

struggling with  niggling back pain and lack of sleep. 

I'm grateful that my back isn't a quarter as bad as it has been in the past

 but now know I need to do something preventative - 

I'm thinking 1:1 Pilates sessions initially then moving to group sessions.

 I know my problem is my core - despite being generally fit my core muscles 

are far from the strongest and I know they won't improve by themselves - 

time to put some work in I think!! 

I was unable to lead my running group last week and that just guts me....

I have always been fortunate to enjoy free Yoga sessions at work on a Friday lunchtime but never quite managed to carve time out in my diary - now they have finished :-( 

(due to lack of attendance gggrrr)

So, I have decided to join Gwen Moss with Matt Cutts 30 Day Challenge.

I am going to wake slightly earlier and do a 10 minute morning 

yoga session for the whole of May. 

According to Leo Babauta who writes the fabulous Zen Habits a 

habit is formed after 21 sessions have been incorporated into your life -

 so hopefully this ritual will last far longer than May!!

Obviously starting a new activity means a trip to Sweaty Betty.

Research shows that if you feel good in your chosen sport clothing you 

actually work harder, well that's my excuse anyway, hehe!

Calypso Yoga Pants                                                      Niyama Vest

pilates

“In ten sessions you will feel the difference, in twenty you will see the difference and in thirty you will have a whole new body.”
Joseph Pilates

Does anyone practice Pilates?
 I'd love if you could share some tips or advice! XX