Pilates for Better Mental Health
Many of us are already aware that Pilates benefits our physical body. But did you know it is also advantageous for our mental health? Pilates does more than just strengthen our muscles and improve balance; the breathing techniques and mindfulness practiced in Pilates enhance our mental faculties as well. Let’s have an in-depth look at how Pilates can contribute to better mental health.
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Enhances memory
- Makes you feel good
- Boosts confidence
- Improves sleep quality
Reduces stress and anxiety
In Pilates, you learn to control your breath, mind and body. The emphasis on movement and breathing clears the mind so that you can focus on the present moment and leave your worries behind. Breathing exercises in Pilates have been shown to slow down brain activity, which naturally reduces stress and anxiety. In addition, Pilates can aid with relaxing different parts of the body, which may be holding tension, for example, the shoulders, chest and back.
Enhances memory
Pilates uses both the body and mind at once, helping to keep the brain constantly engaged. This exercise also increases blood flow to the brain while strengthening the connections between the brain’s nerve cells. This sharpens your memory and improves brain function. Moreover, Pilates can enhance the hippocampus, the area of the brain which plays a significant role in learning and memory.
Makes you feel good
Folks who practise Pilates regularly report being in a good mood after each session. This is because Pilates improves oxygen flow and blood circulation while stimulating mood-boosting hormones like endorphins and decreasing cortisol, the stress hormone. As this exercise triggers positive emotions, it is a supportive tool to mitigate depressive feelings.
Boosts confidence
Pilates can help you feel more confident of your body as the exercise trains you to appreciate how your muscle and body feels as you practise each move. When you feel good inside out, you will naturally develop better self-esteem. Moreover, practising Pilates can result in a more focused and alert mind, leading to more productive and creative work and life, which in turn makes you feel happier and more self-assured.
Improves sleep quality
Higher body awareness, focused breathing and moves that massage the body from a Pilates workout can help you sleep better and overcome sleep problems like insomnia. Experts recommend doing the “spinal stretch”, an essential Pilates move, before bed for a deeper and more rejuvenating sleep.
Pilates is a great way to manage stress and mood, which paves the way to better mental health. Even doing basic moves daily can make you feel better in the long run. Talk to our therapists at B-Physica to find out how Physiolates can help you relieve pain and achieve a better quality of life. Call us at 014-776 7668 or visit our centre for more info.
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