Addressinglifestyle our emotional well LifeStyle being.

Www. botswanaguardian. co. bw

At a time when we need to We are be often stronger some of the in first the to mind know they and are body, expecting we and are it can faced with be quite new a nervous challenges and apprehensiand lifestyle ve period between finding out and

concerns that are impacting our

telling the rest of the world. I like

mental and physical health.

being part of this safe, nurturing and

A need to address our mental and

caring environment.

emotional well- being, and to build immunity and better health has become even more important in these times. Pilates can be the ideal activity to build a healthy lifestyle in this new normal.

Lateral, or intercostal breathing is a special breathing technique we use in Pilates that allows us to maintain a contraction of the abs throughout an exercise. Joseph Pilates recognized that people generally breathe shallowly, only bringing air into the top portion of the lungs.

This constricts the flow of air, can increase stress, and leads to fatigue. We need to take full, deep breaths to oxygenate the blood fully. In lateral breathing we breathe deeply, all the way down the spine and into the pelvic bowl, but Pilates emphasizes to breath into the lungs to the back and sides of the ribcage.

When the abs are pulled in properly, they protect the spine and act like a supportive corset for the whole trunk. This is in contrast to the type of breathing that emphasizes the lowering of the diaphragm during inhalation ( often called diaphragmatic breathing), with the abdominal muscles relaxed so they are allowed to push outward. Knowing how to breathe correctly while keeping the abs contracted gives us extra support throughout an exercise. As you practice lateral breathing, you will find that you are able to perform Pilate’s exercises with greater ease.

It helps make the scoop of abs easier and enhances the sense of lengthening the spine with the breath. Breathing patterns are an integral part of a Pilate’s workout. Breathing is something we all take for granted and rarely spare a thought for. In Pilates, focusing on a deep, fuller breath ensures better oxygenation within the body, making our movement.

Pilate’s workouts can be customised to suit individual goals, health concerns and fitness levels, making it an effective system to address health related issues. These include hypertension, respiratory- based issues, and concerns related to the neck, shoulder, wrist, and back resulting from changes in the work environment and added mental

75214859

and physical pressures of work. The

pilatesfitnessbotswana@ gmail. com

primary goal of Pilates is to make the body muscularly balanced with a good posture. This enables efficient functioning with strength and control, lowers levels of fatigue, and has a positive and energising effect on the mind.

Please note that, learning Pilates from other than a real live instructor is not easy and does carry some slight risks. You should, in addition to the routines I will share with you, attend a Pilates class with a certified Pilates instructor and don’t hesitate to visit your doctor for clearance before you start.