Whenever I hear someone say, “that’s not yoga”, I always chuckle inside because they remind me of an earlier version of myself. Yoga, Pilates and GYROTONIC® have become a sort of trinity for me. These mind body techniques have one main thing in common: they all ask you to be present. These practices guide the […]Read More
The Power of the Breath in Pilates
When something is very natural it’s often compared to breathing; an implicit trust in an unconscious process. 17, 000 breaths a day is as natural as it comes. That’s why you’ll be surprised to know there are better breathing techniques than regular breath that Pilates encourages. We sat down with our Director of Curriculum, Shelly Power, […]Read More
Body Scan Meditation
Body Scan Meditation The body scan is a piece of mindfulness meditation. It is a practice in awareness and attention. It is a time to just be with yourself. Whenever you are in need of some “me” time, try starting this body scan and experience the benefits of increased relaxation, focus and attention. Find a […]Read More
The Swing of Things – Pilates & Rotational Sports
Golf, tennis, and baseball are just a few sports that demand mobility, stability, coordination, balance, and alignment for efficient movement. Athletes who participate in these rotational sports are excellent candidates for Pilates. If we take a moment to think about the demand placed on the body when playing any of these sports, we can quickly see that […]Read More
Pilates on the Water
At Polestar, we encourage you to apply your Pilates knowledge to every discipline of movement you can find. Stand up paddling or “SUP” is a good way to add a new dimension of awareness to your routine, as long as you don’t slip into the water! Stand up paddle boarding is one of the fastest […]Read More
Educator Highlight: Dr. Diedra Manns
Polestar Educator Dr. Diedra Manns of Monarch Wellness in Santa Monica CA shares her musings on Pilates, the Butterfly Effect and the “End of the World”. My Hometown / About Me Although I live near Santa Monica, CA now I was born and raised in Montclair, New Jersey. Go Mounties! Woman of a certain age, physical therapist, […]Read More