Hard to believe but here we are again, practically at the end of another year. Where does time go? 2011 has been a challenging year for many of us so perhaps we can ease through the holiday season with gratitude in our hearts for the opportunity of personal growth and expanded understanding. After all, many of today’s stresses -- an uncertain economy, international conflict, and issues of health -- are beyond our control. Thankfully, we do have the ability to control how we respond to these demanding times.

With that in mind, perhaps it is timely that we spend a few minutes discussing the mind-body connection that Joseph Pilates introduced to the world over a half of century ago. Joe explained this connection in Return to Life through Contrology, published in 1945. According to Joe, Contrology is “the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body, with a sound mind, fully capable of naturally, easily and satisfactorily performing our many and varied daily tasks with spontaneity, zest and pleasure.” In other words, it is through the balance of physical well being, mental calm, and spiritual peace that we become healthier and happier people better able to face life’s challenges.

In his book, The Pilates Path to Health, Gary Calderone expands on how Pilates aids us in our path to well being. He asserts that when Pilates is taught and practiced properly, we experience an increase of strength, suppleness, energy level, and overall sense of conditioning. As a Pilates instructor, I can verify this is true. It is very common to hear remarks at the end of classes such as, “Hey, my shoulder was hurting but it’s feeling better” or “Thanks, I’m ready to face the day” or “Wow, I came here feeling a bit down but I’m feeling much stronger now.”

Calderone says it all comes down to a matter of creating space in the body through awareness. This awareness creates an opportunity to focus on being present in the moment so we can listen to our inner voice, which brings with it an innate knowledge and ability to recognize our individual and distinct needs for well being. We experience a renewed sense of self, not in a selfish or egotistical way, but in a way that increases inner strength and confidence. You might say we are creating the possibility of living life with passion, purpose, and vitality.

When I began practicing Pilates this was the area that I experienced the most profound shift. Having exercised on a regular basis most of my life, I walked into the Pilates studio fairly physically fit. However, emotionally and mentally I was a jumbled up mess. Looking back, I now realize I was at the crossroads of some major life changes. I felt stuck, confused and frustrated.

Calderone says, “Metal calm describes a shift that occurs in a Pilates training session in your ability to think clearly and focus. A veil or fog lifts from your mind and any sluggish processing disappears.” This is true because Pilates requires us to use our brain as well as our muscles. We become aware of our space in the world and the patterns of how we move within that space. From that awareness we can begin to change patterns that are not working or correct habits that are unhealthy for us.

As I progressed with my Pilates training, new possibilities really did open up for me. It was like I had unlocked a newfound cooperation with my body and more importantly, my life. As I grew in strength, I found that instead of fighting against things, I became more patient. My outlook became calmer and more compassionate. Calderone summarized my experience when he said, "Students notice the gradual and constant improvement of patterns that no longer serve their bodies, minds, or spirits. A reasonable balance returns."

Needless to say, I'm hooked on Pilates.