Pilates is typically seen as a form of exercise that is beneficial for your health. The physical benefits of practicing Pilates are well-known, including strengthening and toning muscles. However, pilates appears to have some positive effects on your mental health as well. The practice emphasizes breathing, focus, and mindfulness to help strengthen the connection between mind and body.
Here are a few mental health benefits that you may experience from practicing pilates:
1) Improves your Memory and Makes you Smarter:
A number of recent studies have demonstrated that pilates exercise encourage neurogenesis - the creation of new brain cells, as well as protecting existing brain cells by boosting B.D.N.F production - a nerve-protecting substance some scientists call Miracle-Gro for the brain. Most of the changes occur in the hippocampus, which is responsible for memories and learning. After a mindful movement practice of Pilates, people are seen to have significantly superior brain functioning.
2) Reduce Depression and Anxiety:
Researchers have found that Pilates reduces anxiety and depression in overweight individuals. When Pilates is combined with breathing exercises, it can reduce anxiety and the incidence of panic attacks in people who are prone to them. The activity helps restore emotional balance by allowing individuals to unwind after a hectic or stressful day. In Pilates, people can establish a deeper connection with their spiritual self, reducing symptoms of unease and improving internal stability.
3) Improve Concentration:
Pilates can improve focus both on and off the mat, strengthening your mind and memory. Pilates is a mindful practice, that helps individuals to appreciate the here and now. Focusing on the present moment helps you gain a better understanding of yourself and your surroundings because it gives the world sharper clarity.
4) Trains your brain:
Learning new activities improves the health of our brain, as it challenges us to learn new skills. Research has shown that learning new movements or modifying a Pilates routine is just what we want since it challenges the body and mind at the same time.
5) Better Sleep Habits:
Sleep deprivation is one of the fastest ways to wear down a mind. As a result, practicing Pilates daily can help to relax the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep at night. When you get a long and deep sleep, you'll be able to concentrate and focus better during the daytime and not experience mental fatigue.
6) Mood Booster:
A Pilates workout can boost your endorphins, making you feel happy, and studies indicate that people who do Pilates are more likely to release negative thoughts.
7) Improves Energy:
Practicing Pilates can help you feel more energetic. Since Pilates workouts focus heavily on breathing, they improve cardiorespiratory capacity, oxygen, feel-good hormones, and circulation.
Bottom Line:
The benefits of exercise go beyond the physical realm. Through highly stimulating exercises, Pilates is a great way to exercise both. Put yourself through a Pilates workout and you will notice a positive change in your mood.
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