In this episode, Lisa is joined by Lesley Logan, a pilates instructor, to discuss the transformative impact of pilates on body image, functional fitness, and the mind-body connection. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, inclusivity, and the role of pilates in healing trauma and promoting empowerment.
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[2:06] Lisa starts this episode by asking Lesley to introduce herself. Lesley shares her first experience with pilates and how she fell in love with it after one class and thought everyone should try it. She discusses how she became an instructor and eventually quit her retail job to teach full-time.
[5:30] Lesley discusses her early experiences with body image, influenced by societal standards and family dieting culture. She highlights the struggle of seeing the body as an ornament and the journey to viewing it as an instrument. Lisa and Lesley discuss the importance of functional fitness for aging well, emphasizing the need for strength and mobility to perform everyday tasks and travel comfortably.
[18:00] Lesley discusses personal experiences with body image issues, health challenges, and the pressure of maintaining a certain appearance in the fitness industry. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on health metrics like vitamin levels rather than weight. Lesley explains how pilates can serve as a moving meditation, helping individuals connect with their bodies and improve mental focus.
[28:05] Lisa relates pilates to healing trauma and overcoming dissociation by strengthening the mind-body connection. Lisa emphasizes the importance of feeling safe in one’s body and how mindful movement can aid in trauma recovery. Lesley shares experiences of bringing diverse groups together through pilates, fostering a sense of community and shared experience, even among people who might not typically interact.
[34:53] Lesley provides guidance for beginners in pilates, suggesting they look for comprehensively trained instructors and be mindful of class types and equipment. Lesley suggests practicing pilates 3-4 times a week, emphasizing that sessions can be as short as 15 minutes.
[45:49] Lisa and Lesley discuss how the primary intention of pilates is to achieve a balance of strength and flexibility, focusing on posture and muscular strength. Lesley explains that it is designed to be a low-impact exercise that is accessible to many people. Lisa and Lesley discuss how pilates helps individuals become the authority on their own bodies, promoting a sense of safety and embodiment. Lesley also discusses how pilates encourages self-care and empowers individuals to take control of their health.
[57:58] Lisa and Lesley conclude this episode by encouraging curiosity and self-kindness in one’s pilates practice, highlighting that self-care is essential for overall well-being. They also discuss how listeners can find Lesley online: Website | Free 4-Week Challenge | Instagram | Facebook
*The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.
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