future self appreciates it

I didn't have a very consistent movement practice until my 30s. And I am currently very grateful for that shift. 

I was an art kid (no surprise). I did not play sports. I failed the physical section of P.E. in 8th grade. 

I did love ballet. I was hypermobile, and the teachers put me in the front of the class. I had performance anxiety and quit. 

I go on bush walks and occasionally like to train for a long-distance run. 

I did yoga in its various expressions over the decades. Though that ebbed and flowed. 

What I did really dedicate myself to in my 30s was Pilates. How I got there was a whole story for another time. 

I loved it. I saw improvement in my yoga practice, my understanding of my body, and shifts in my general mobility and strength. I loved it so much I did my teacher training in mat and reformer Pilates. 

And then last week, as I turned to put a jacket on my coat rack, my knee abruptly dislocated. Hypermobility is not always a blessing. 

An ambulance visit (shout out to our amazing paramedics! Especially Alex, if you are reading this by some small twist of fate), a few freak-outs, and the support of wonderful family and friends later, I am left navigating my life with injury. 

And what I was struck by most these last few days was my body’s ability to compensate for my injury. 

My abs and arms were able to lift me in and out of cars and seats where my leg would usually do the work. 

My other leg was strong and able to support me in transitions. 

My back was able to navigate the use of crutches. 

I was able to bend from the hips to still put on socks to keep my feet warm. 

It is like my entire body rallied to protect my knee. And it could, because of my ongoing practice. My body is strong enough to care for itself. 

I realise this week I don’t practice Pilates for strength and mobility right now. 

I practice Pilates so my mind and body are in their best place for all the unexpected life events ahead of me. 

And I teach it so others can also give this gift to their future selves. 

Karen xx

P.S Our 6-month Reformer Pilates Teacher Training begins September 5th! Learn more here.