Category: Inspirational

A Science-Backed Gratitude Practice

Usually I like to highlight gratitude for the November newsletter.

But before we get to that, I realize there has been a lot of anxiety surrounding the recent election.

As I schedule the newsletter in advance, I’m aware that it will be released the day after the election.

So whether the results are in or the country is still holding its breath awaiting the outcome –

I want to remind you to…

Pause…

And Breathe!

Now back to the regularly scheduled newsletter.

There are many ways to practice gratitude.

But I heard about an interesting technique from the book “Gratitude Works” by Robert Emmons.

When practicing gratitude, we tend to think of making a list of all the things we are grateful for.

Instead try picking one person or thing you are grateful for.

And then list 5 specific things about that one person you are grateful for.

For example, I’m grateful for you –

1) Thank you for reading the newsletter.

2) Thank you for your time and attention.

3) I appreciate your care and dedication.

4) I’m grateful for your trust and for allowing me to assist in your wellness journey.

5) And thank you for sharing your stories with me.

I’m amazed at how you apply the Pilates principles to your own life and unique situations in ways that are so inspiring.

As we head into the Holidays, I hope you’ll carve out some time for yourself to pause…breath…and practice gratitude in your own way.

Wishing you and your loved ones many moments of joy and Thanksgiving!

With Gratitude & Appreciation,

Shannon

Back to class in 6 weeks with full range of motion!

Some of you may remember Suzanne from the studio.

With her permission, I’m sharing Suzanne’s story to offer some encouragement this Breast Cancer Awareness month.

She recently wrote, “I owe you big time!…You instilled in me the importance of continuing to practice and move correctly.”

Suzanne has been practicing Pilates for over 18 years now.

That foundation really helped her recently.

A mammogram earlier this year showed a few scattered calcium deposits and after biopsies, Suzanne had to have a mastectomy. Thankfully, there wasn’t anything in the lymph nodes and all cancer removed.

The incredible thing was that 6 weeks after a mastectomy she was back to class and had full range of motion!!!

Suzanne said “I think it was because I was in good shape before the surgery. And thanks to you teaching me the importance of movement everywhere will pay off in the end! So true for me.”

Suzanne is healing well and taking medication but fortunately didn’t have to have chemo or radiation.

Suzanne also said she “will keep up her Pilates practice hopefully another 18 years because as you know, when you rest you rust!”

As a cautionary tale, Suzanne strongly advises not to skip your annual mammogram. Her spots happened in less than a year.

I hope Suzanne’s story encourages you to take care of yourself with regular checkups and to stay active and keep moving! It might pay off in ways you couldn’t have expected!

Hugs,

Shannon

Something To Stay Cool!

As summer heat is at the peak, I thought this would be a good time to share some refreshing, healthy recipes to help you stay cool.

These recipes are from Vani Hari (aka “Food Babe“). She is known for being an advocate for clean eating and challenging food industry standards.

Please enjoy these healthy and tasty recipes!

Bon Appetit,

Shannon

Lemonade

Fresh, real lemons in lemonade – imagine that! If you would like a simple homemade lemonade, I think you’ll enjoy this recipe!

Asian Citrus Rice Salad

This salad is delicious, filling and can make a meal on its own.

The recipe is adaptable. Instead of chicken, I’ve used tofu. You could probably try Salmon as well.

Coconut Creamsicle Berry Pop

A tasty treat to cool you off – these are like dreamsicles! So yummy!

Fourth of July and Anniversary

Dear Students & Friends,

Hope you are enjoying the summer and looking forward to special times with loved ones over the Holiday weekend!

Wishing you a Happy 4th of July!

Also, coming up on July 29 will be the 8 year anniversary for the business!

Wishing you continued good health, joy and freedom of movement in every way!

With Best Wishes Always,

Shannon

Pilates Day 2024

Pilates Day is coming up this Saturday, May 4!

To celebrate, the newsletter is highlighting a couple of articles about “Pilates: The Man and The Method” and some of his inventions that you may never have heard of.

Wishing you a Happy Pilates Day ~

Every Day!

Pilates: The Man and The Method

Did you know that Pilates didn’t call his exercises Pilates? To find out what Mr. Pilates called his system, check out the article here.

Mr. Pilates thought his work was 50 years ahead of its time. And that proved to be true.

Pilates Day and the Lost Equipment

Even if you have practiced Pilates for a while, you may not have ever used a “breath-a-cizer” or a head harness.

Did you know Pilates even invented a bed!

If you would like to check out some of the more rare pieces of equipment, please read this short article here.

With Best Wishes,

Shannon

March 2024 Newsletter

Hope this finds you enjoying some beautiful weather this spring!

To inspire you, this month’s newsletter shares the story of a local professional athlete.

And to top it off, a sample program if there is an area of the body you are wanting to strengthen.

You may have seen this article recently in the Houston Chronicle about Astros’ player Jose Abreu.

If you haven’t, I think you’ll enjoying reading how Pilates changed his game and his life.

He “Recommend(s) you do it as well.”

First published in 2022, this “Spring Training” article gives you some tips in how to tone specific spots.

By using the 1% rule from the book Atomic Habits by James Clear, this program is intended to be accessible for the average person.

You don’t have to be a professional athlete to build strength and healthful habits!

With Best Wishes,

Shannon

“…and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

Luke 2:14 KJV

The above quote is from the angels the night of Jesus birth.

It’s comforting to think that a message from heaven is one of peace for mankind.

Praying for peace on earth this season and beyond.

As you celebrate the Holidays, I hope you and your homes are filled with peace, joy and blessings!

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed, beautiful time! 

Blessings & Peace,

Shannon

Happy Thanksgiving!

I just wanted to express gratitude for you!

Thank you for sharing yourself, your life and your most valuable resources – your time, your trust and your health.

It is an honor to support you on your journey.

I hope you enjoy many moments this Holiday that are filled with gratitude.

Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving!

Warmly,

Shannon

Update on Deedie Root

Some of you may remember Deedie Root. With her permission, I’m sharing a letter she wrote on her progress and a way you may be able to help!

Deedie’s story

How To Stay On Track Through The Holidays!

5 quick, easy tips to help you navigate through the all the temptations and stay slim through the season.

Read here.

The Power of Pilates and Breast Cancer Survivor Eve Gentry

I’ve briefly shared before about Eve Gentry’s incredible story. 

I’m delighted to let you know that the documentary “Eve Gentry – The Power of Pilates” is available for free viewing on Vimeo. 

If you haven’t seen this short documentary, you are in for a treat. 

And if you only have a five minutes, you can fast forward and watch from 4:23-9:24 for the segment on her recovery from a radical mastectomy. 

It is truly amazing how Joseph Pilates helped her completely regain range of motion and strength even with the pectoralis major muscle removed!

Eve Gentry experienced “the power of Pilates” firsthand.

And Eve paid it forward passing on Pilates work to the next generation! Enjoy:)

With Best Wishes Always,

Shannon

Underwater Dancing

The term “underwater dancing” probably brings to mind synchronized swimming and the olympics. 

But imagine performing a dance completely underwater –

without coming up for air!

Julie Gautier is a pioneer in underwater dancing.

I think you’ll appreciate the artistry and physicality in this video.

You can get a glimpse of her breathing exercises at the beginning of the video.

It’s interesting to hear her background and creative process. The video, of course, finishes with an underwater dance (in a natural pool of water in the jungle)!

Enjoy – “Dancing Through The Waters”!

Stay Cool & Calm,

Shannon