Self Esteem Boosting Pilates Moves

February is International Boost Self-Esteem Month, and we've got you covered! You deserve to love yourself, believe in yourself, and value yourself properly—no matter your current opinions! Self-esteem is defined as the confidence and satisfaction that we feel about ourselves, and it affects all areas of our lives, including our work. Approximately 80% of women struggle with self-esteem and, as a result, avoid self-advocacy within the workplace. In addition, research shows that our self-esteem directly indicates the quality of our relationships. By boosting our self-esteem, we can experience positive effects throughout our lives and, in turn, an improved quality of life. 

Exercise and self-esteem show a direct correlation, as science shows that feeling physical improvement through exercise raises self-esteem. Pilates is a unique form of exercise that emphasizes physical and mental health. It builds awareness of what our bodies can do as we engage different muscle groups and celebrate our strength. This month, we're sharing our top 5 Pilates moves to boost self-esteem and self-love! 

1. The Hundred: This Classical Pilates exercise engages the core and helps improve circulation. Start lying on your back with your legs in a tabletop position. Lift your head and shoulders off the mat, extending your arms alongside your body. Pump your arms up and down while inhaling for five counts and exhaling for five counts. Repeat for ten cycles. This move helps build endurance and a strong core.
2. The Roll Up: The Roll Up is great for improving flexibility in the spine and strengthening the abdominal muscles. Lie on your back with your arms extended above your head. Inhale as you reach your arms up and exhale as you roll your spine up into a sitting position, reaching forward toward your toes. Slowly roll back down one vertebra at a time. This exercise fosters a sense of control and body awareness. 
3. The Single Leg Stretch: This move targets the core while also improving stability. Lie on your back with your knees pulled into your chest. Extend one leg out while holding the other knee, with your head and shoulders lifted off the mat. Alternate the positions of your legs while keeping a steady breath. This exercise cultivates focus and coordination. 
4. The Teaser: The Teaser is a challenging move that engages the entire body and enhances balance and strength. Lie on your back and extend your legs. As you exhale, roll up to a sitting position, balancing on your sit bones while lifting your legs to a 45-degree angle. Reach your arms toward your feet. This exercise offers a sense of accomplishment and can boost confidence as you master it. 
5. The Child’s Pose: This restorative pose is perfect for reconnecting with your breath and calming the mind. Kneel on the mat, sit back on your heels, and extend your arms in front of you while lowering your forehead to the ground. Focus on your breath as you relax into the stretch. This move helps cultivate self-compassion and mindfulness. 

Add these Pilates moves to your routine and enhance both physical strength and your self-esteem, leaving you feeling empowered and confident! Check out our YouTube channel and explore a variety of mat classes, or treat yourself to your own Frame Reformer and invest in your self-esteem today!