Adjusting to the 'new normal'

This is unchartered territory for all of us. Each day I try to find my way to thrive, despite it—as do my friends, family and clients. For me, staying at home has been quite positive in some unexpected ways. I’ve found time for more reflection. I’m eating very well. I’m staying fit with long, solitary walks. I’m working with quite a few clients over video, leading them—with demonstration and guidance—through very effective Pilates mat workouts. They are in their homes; I am in mine, but we still connect and it gives them great benefit during these hard days. There is room for more of you in my schedule as I have lots of time—just like you.

 The unpredictability of this pandemic—its force, its length, its fallout—has allowed me the opportunity to refocus my attention and efforts on fine-tuning and improving my Pilates practice. I am reminded that Pilates is not just a random choice of particular movements. Pilates is a system of physical and mental conditioning that can enhance your physic al strength, flexibility and coordination as well as reduce stress, improve mental focus and foster an improved sense of wellbeing.

Revisiting the basic principles – breath, concentration, center, control, precision and flow--have assisted me in finding meaning and purpose in my ‘new reality’. While the studio is closed indefinitely, your practice does not have to shut down.

I worry most, as do we all, about those who are impacted by the illness itself. I am concerned about everyone else whose life is upended in ways far more difficult than mine. I only hope we can all support one another and minimize the pain.

I also wonder how things will have changed when we are through this. For now, I’m taking a ‘wait and see’ attitude toward how my work with my clients will re-establish itself when life starts to return to the ‘old normal’—if it does. I love Pilates, I love my clients, I love my business. In the end, helping others to wellness suits me while it nourishes my own wellbeing. In some small way, I want to be a part of the healing we all need now, more than ever. Please stay safe, everyone.