The Pilates technique is about aligning the vertical and horizontal axes (lines) of the body centered in the torso through pelvic and scapular stability. As the root of the legs is in the pelvis, pelvic floor and sacrum, so the root of the arms is in the shoulder girdle, and scapulae and the upper and lower body connect at the solar plexus. The result of moving from a stable center is strength, efficiency, and balance. Engaging the outward breath on the effort, in order to move from the solar plexus is similar to the breathwork in martial arts. The active use of breath to initiate movement and the deep awareness of the vertical and horizontal body axes is stabilizing and somatically creates the sense of “backing oneself up.”

The Wall requires a balance of levity and resistance, which creates a sense of suspension in the body. Moving at different angles in relationship to gravity challenges us to reconfigure how we move in space. In this way, we press through out-moded assumptions of what is possible and amplify our kinesthetic bodies to incorporate more extensive psychic and physical engagement.

Thai Bodywork is a beautiful, ancient art form of active massage, where the practitioner moves the receiver’s body into yogic positions and with pressure releases stagnant and held/frozen energy patterns.  The result is a release of vitality and relief through the physical, emotional, energetic and psychic body layers.