How does Pilates help with ADHD…

Studies have been carried out that suggest Pilates can improve attention deficits, cognitive performance as well as sleep quality. Pilates can be beneficial for individuals with ADHD- Here are some of the key areas that may prove useful for the following:

Improved Focus and Attention

Pilates is a structured form of exercise with an emphasis on controlled movements alongside mindful breathing- this aids with focus and maintained attention.

Reduced Impulsivity

Pilates sequences often involve holding poses with controlled movements - which can help individuals with ADHD develop better impulse control.

Increased Awareness

The mindful aspect of Pilates can enhance self- awareness and attention regulation, which are often challenges for those with ADHD.

Building Routines

The consistent nature of Pilates can help establish routines and habits, which can be beneficial to every day life.

Neurotransmitter Balance

Physical activity, including Pilates, can help balance neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are important for attention, focus, and mood regulation. 

Tangible Progress

Pilates provides a space where individuals with ADHD can see real progress and feel a sense of accomplishment, which can boost self-esteem. 

The physical and mental benefits of Pilates not only strengthens the body but also provides mental benefits, such as reducing stress and improving mood.

APP Update

Last month the Ped-O-Pull was introduced to Circuit Pilates classes. I have included a section on the APP that is dedicated to these sequences and can be found via the ‘navigation button’ at the bottom of the home page. For those that are interested in what this entails- here are a couple of exercises using this apparatus. Fantastic for neck, head and spine alignment.

Thank you to my lovely Thursday morning Circuit Training ladies for allowing me to share their beautiful work.

Here you can see demonstration of articulation through the neck and spine on the Ped-O-Pull- using diamond legs to engage the hip flexors.

Research and Trial Run for next Retreat…

Last weekend was both productive and fun as I took a trip to Sherwood Forest to test out a venue for a possible next location for Retreat 2.

So, on my findings- I was delighted with the area of natural beauty with lots to experience for a weekend break. The high light of the short stay was the amazing Aqua Asana Spa which was like no other I have been to! The hotel was clean with comfortable beds and the food was very good- pub classics!

Unfortunately, the downside was the room within the hotel where we would be having our Pilates sessions just wasn’t suitable. The management were really kind and did their best to make it work by removing normally fixed furniture but it just didn’t feel right.

At the moment it is back to the drawing board as far as the Pilates venue is concerned for this area. Once I am 100% happy with all parts of the jig saw- I’ll be able to put a package together. In the mean time - here is a taste of the trial…

Whenever I get to hear Simon Sinek speak (renowned leadership expert, best selling author and host of the podcast- A Bit of Optimism) it’s always inspiring!

In this episode with Jay Shetty they share a deeply vulnerable and powerful conversation about friendship and what it is to be a true friend and the role of meaningful relationships in our lives.

Ten minutes in they discuss ‘Why Community is Disappearing & Why It Matters’ and this really struck a chord with me. One of the things that I am most proud of with Mypilatesflow is the sense of collective spirit among us all, within our classes together. I love seeing the friendships that have developed over the years through the coming together through a common interest. I hope you find this podcast a good listen- goes under the category of for good mental health rather than physical health!

This episode is a powerful reminder that being imperfect is what makes us human, and that real connection isn’t built on perfection, but on the willingness to be present, authentic, and compassionate.

In this episode, you'll learn: How to Support a Friend Without Trying to Fix Them How to Know When It’s Time to Let a Friendship Go How to Create Belonging When You Feel Disconnected How to Celebrate a Friend’s Win Even When You’re Struggling How to Communicate When You Don’t Know What to Say How to Recognize Burnout as a Sign of Loneliness.

(Jay Shetty)

Our next Bash!

Following on from the theme of ‘Friendship’- excited for our up coming end of term social - Cream Tea at Quod in Oxford on the 25th!

Headrests

If you would like a headrest for class (new larger version) made by BAGS OF LOVE designed by me then drop me a line (£20). This is the whole sale price that I am passing on- Great for side series work as well as high kneeling exercises and pressure points!

Class Update

Subscriptions will go on pause at the end of the month and resume from September 2nd (being the first Evening Class at Didcot Civic Hall).

Those that are signed up for the August Sessions - I will see you for the first three weeks of August in the Steventon Studio.

I would like to offer an additional Circuit Training Class on a Monday morning from 9:30-10:30am in the Steventon Studio starting in September. This will be for those without any experience- complete Beginners! This will be a Trio Class so spaces are extremely limited so will be on a first come first served basis for Subcribers.

Link below to register interest:

Thank you for dropping me a line whenever you are unable to make a class. As classes are pretty much at capacity it is really helpful knowing where gaps will be. I can then offer spaces to other Subscribers who want to make up their sessions.

Wishing you all a calm month ahead- see you on the mat shortly- enjoy July!