When it comes to low load, mind-to-body connections, flexibility and stability, yoga and pilates come out on top in terms of benefits to the body and mind
Traditionally, yoga uses the body to connect with the mind and the inner self, or spirit. Stemming from over 5,000 years ago in Northern India, yoga has remained true to its principles of healing the mind and the inner self through the balance between body, mind, and spirit, coming from its religious roots. Whereas pilates maintains a mind-body approach to improve physical fitness.
Here are some further key points that outline pilates and yoga:
Poses
Many of the core poses of pilates and yoga are the same or very similar. The main intent is also similar, with both using the poses to focus the body and mind — and spirit in yoga — so they are in union; this, in turn, allows a person to perform the movement or pose in the best possible way. Typically, you'll find yourself holding poses in yoga, then gently flowing into the next. Whereas pilates is more core orientated, challenging the body by incorporating the arms and legs to further influence the core. The intent differs from many traditional exercise routines that focus on the completion of an exercise or movement and not on the performance of the movement.
Equipment
Benefits
Overall, both yoga and pilates will make you healthier, stronger, more flexible, and more connected with your spirit. There's a wealth of knowledge out there on where to begin if you're just starting out but here at The Physio Co we utilize yoga and pilates in some of our rehab. Come and book in and we can chat more about how either yoga or pilates may benefit you!