Lesser-known benefits of Pilates
You already know that the 1-3 hours you spend in the Pilates studio each week result in a flat and toned stomach, and that it makes you fitter and more flexible. You've also realized that there's nothing better than a good chat with your workout buddies after a good session (but definitely not during class – you might have had to learn this the hard way). You might have even lulled yourself into believing that you've completely mastered Pilates and that nothing can surprise you anymore.
If you read on, you'll discover three benefits of Pilates that you've experienced but would never have associated with Pilates.
- Stress relief.
Just one Pilates class is enough for even the most uninitiated to realize that successfully performing the exercises requires a good deal of concentration. The mind-body connection in Pilates is not just a catchy phrase; it's truly necessary. You need to know exactly how and where your body is positioned, and how your head, hips, shoulders, and chest move. This is the only way you can effectively engage your core (in Pilates language, your "powerhouse"). If you don't concentrate, it's as if you're not even there, as you'll enjoy few of the benefits of Pilates.
How many times have you arrived at your class feeling nervous and annoyed, only to feel completely refreshed after a mere 55 minutes of exercise? For an hour, you clear your head, and then after Pilates, everything falls back into place, and you realize that there's actually nothing to be nervous about. It's like when you empty your messy wardrobe, then fold and arrange everything neatly before putting it back. Where there was chaos before, there will now be order.
- Fewer headaches.
Which came first: neck pain or headache? It doesn't matter; if it hurts, it needs to be relieved. It's also possible that the headache originates from the neck. Doctors call this cervicogenic headache. This is often caused by poor posture – a lot of slouching leads to the tightening and hardening of the neck and shoulder muscles. As a result, the bony part at the end (or beginning?) of the spine also tenses up. This is where this type of headache originates.
Pilates relaxes these hard-working muscles and improves posture. The result? Stronger muscles, correct posture, relief for the neck, and fewer headaches! If you're skeptical, you might say you can achieve this with a painkiller. However, it's much better to address the cause than to alleviate the symptoms. Ask yourself – if you notice the whole kitchen is smoking because you've burned dinner, what do you do first? Do you take the pot off the stove, or do you open the window?
- Stronger orgasms.
The stronger the pelvic floor, the more intense the orgasm. Pilates works the deep abdominal muscles, which increases blood flow to the pelvic cavity. And if the pelvic cavity is adequately supplied with oxygen and blood, it becomes much more sensitive.
In addition, Pilates teaches you how to handle your body and also increases flexibility. We certainly don't need to explain in detail why, but if you like to experiment in the bedroom, a good amount of flexibility doesn't hurt.
To truly feel good, you also need to be confident and shed all your inhibitions. This can also be achieved through Pilates! Not just because it will make you slimmer, as that's not the only thing that makes someone attractive and confident. You'll feel better in your own skin because you take care of yourself and because you are constantly developing.
Yes, this is all thanks to Pilates!