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Gently

Let us continue to apply the thoracic breathing of Pilates to the yogic Sun Salutation (see video). Yogalates must not be just some sort of half-and-half mix of yoga and Pilates, alternating one discipline with the other. Integration of the two is what is essential so that they inform one another in a deepening and clarifying manner. We can accomplish this through breath and through toning the psoas muscle — gently.

Recently, a number of people have approached me with a recurring and troubling question: "Will Yogalates hurt my back and neck like Pilates did?" Pilates does not injure when the pelvis is untilted or when the psoas muscle is relaxed and stretched rather than tensed. Think of toning rather than tensing. And think of asking the instructor if he or she is experienced in modifying the format to accommodate existing disability or injury and, if so, just what that experience is.

Then consider if "six-pack abs" is really what you want because an exercise regimen other than Yogalates would be more effective in reaching your goal. Yogalates is about stabilizing the pelvis; it is about supporting the internal organs without constricting them. Gently.

Written in association with Paula M. Rahders

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Julie’s Video

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Breathing Exercise (Microcosmic Orbit)

Running time: 43 seconds. Size: 872 KB.
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Breathing Exercise (Microcosmic Orbit) Audio Only

You will need QuickTime™ to listen to the exercise.
If you don't have it, click the link (right) for the free download.

 

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