YOGA & PILATES
YOGA
The purpose of Yoga is to try and create a unity between the mind, body and soul. Through correct breathing techniques and mind-body connection it’s a form that is deemed therapeutic to many. Besides the mental harmony it creates, the understanding that the body has beautiful flexibility, gives us many benefits. Furthermore, this form is deemed to have many anti-stress benefits and has become ever so more popular in our modern day hectic lives.
PILATES
Pilates was developed originally by Joseph Pilates as a means of rehabilitation after World War II to help wounded soldiers. The principals focus on the body core and aim to strengthen fibers and ligaments around the joints in order to build stability . Although some perceive it to be a lot more rigid than Yoga, there are many movements that also focus on flexibility but the foundations will give you a stronger base to use in everyday life. Contrary to what many believe, Pilates also uses breathing techniques as a way of truly benefitting the efficiency of the movements but also decreases tension and stress like yoga. The classical style was founded on slow tempo, precise form and perfect alignment. It gives great foundation to a long and healthy life.
ENERGY FITNESS INFO
The purpose of Yoga is to unite the mind, body and spirit. Teachers of Yoga see the mind and body as one whole structure and if the techniques are used in the proper environment, Yoga can be a way to heal the body and help to find mental harmony. This is why Yoga is considered to be a therapeutic activity. It gives your body more flexibility and promotes relaxation even in the most stressful of times. The latter is the reason most people begin taking Yoga classes – to reduce stress.
In Yoga, several movements are preformed on an exercise mat and the weight of the body is used as a resistance for the exercise. This takes a great amount of focus and the flow in and out of each position is fluid. The poses are designed for different needs and purposes.
Pilates has many of the same goals in mind but the major difference between Pilates and Yoga is that in addition to mat work, there can be different exercise machines involved. Pilates works the entire body in addition to the mind. The focus is on the core of the body so the rest can freely move and this makes your body stronger both on the inside and out. The balance is meant to be present between flexibility and strength and this results in stronger and leaner muscles. Many people see the value in both activities and this is why a whole new generation is choosing to incorporate both Yoga and Pilates into their lives.