This blog seems to be all about getting started: Starting your day, starting moving, starting Pilates. How do you start your morning? Your workout? If you have a special stretch or exercise, anything that gets you going in the morning please share it, you can describe it in the comments box and send a little sunshine out into the world. When you do an exercise, even if it's just at the warmup stage, it is best to go for good form right from the beginning. Find your best alignment, get your mind involved, concentrate on the quality of your breath. Find the flow, moving easy so your effort meets your need. In my sessions and classes, and even in my own practice, I start with very basic choreography that emphasizes a particular element such as Breath or Center. Usually we start lying down, using the mat or machine for guidance and support. But, even if you are an experienced pilatee-ite you can still get something out of this traditional exercise performed as a warm-up, focused on your breath. This version is easier on the neck and done in a less stressful manner than the traditional Pilates mat version.
The Hundreds standing up, and leaning against a wall: Lean against a wall with your feet hip width apart, slightly out from the wall. Lift your arms straight out from your shoulders and make soft fists. On an exhale" curl down from the top of the head pressing your low back into the wall, engage your abdominal muscles as if you are pulling your belly button in. Beat your arms gently and quickly (10x for every breath cycle), try and maintain the soft pressure of your back into the wall for 10 breaths. Roll up returning to the starting position.
Disclaimer: Nathaniel Lee is a Pilates teacher in Fort Greene Brooklyn. He is on the faculty of The School at the Mark Morris Dance Center. He also teaches Pilates one-on-one sessions at Wellness Center at MMDC. For more information visit: http://www.nathanielleepilates.com/
