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My friend Amanda, without knowing it, has inspired me to try something new. I think this is something that my friends and family and hopefully people I don't know, yet, will be able to benefit from.

I'd like to start with the basics of Pilates, give you one move per week to try and perfect, and hopefully become addicted to the benefits as I have.

If you don't know me, please be aware that I am AFAA certified in primary fitness and PMI certified in Pilates mat and apparatus. I've been instructing group fitness and private lessons since 2002. Also as a disclaimer this is not a replacement for medical treatment.

This week of December 6th (gonna try to do this every Sunday), let's just start with the breathing.

BREATHING: No it's not just breathing, it's specific and serves a purpose in the movements as well as keeping oxygen in the system and the body relaxed.

You can stand, sit or lie down for this and you can do it anytime. It's even gonna be a good little tool to help you through the crazy Holiday Season.

Hold your hand around your low ribcage, if you can wrap your thumbs around the sides you can do that or just lay the hands flat. Now take a slow deep breaths in through your nose and focus the air going into the low ribs and a little into your low back. Keep breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth and now focus a little on your abdomin staying tight and your chest and shoulders relaxed.

This may be easy for you to master, but keep practicing it and as you add movement to it, it may get a little more challenging and then a feeling of great accomplishment to master the breath and master your stress.

A FEW THINGS I HAVE FOUND MYSELF SAYING OVER THE YEARS:
Exercise isn't easy or everyone would be doing it. Pilates is like starting a new job, it's a lot to take in at first but then one day it just all comes together. The biggest step in exercise, in my opinion, is just getting your clothes and shoes on and getting into that starting position. (if you go to a gym, I think getting there is the hardest part)

Good luck and just try it! Ask questions and give me feedback.