90 Sep/Oct 2017 oxygenmag.com.au
Training
Release to
Transform
N
obody has ever
achieved a major life
transformation without
significant changes to their
current framework. We need to have
the flexibility to move outside "the box"
and take a risk in order to allow some
form of transformation to occur.
Transformations are not just
measured in 'before-and-after' photos.
They can happen without visible
external changes and in order to be
open to them we have to be flexible -
both in our bodies and in our minds.
This Pilates mobility and balance
series is designed to open our bodies
and minds and challenge us to attempt
to let go of 'trying'. In all 3 series the
more we try to obtain the correct
position or force ourselves into the
movement, the harder it actually is.
The correct alignment and flow of
movement happens when we start to
release, use our breath and connect to
our core. You cannot rely on your big
muscle groups to make this work for
you; instead rely on using the correct
muscle sequencing, breath patterns
and releasing into the movement.BY TARYN POLOVIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DALLAS OLSEN | HAIR & MAKEUP SHANNON JENNINGSBy using our breath and connecting to our
core we can release into the movement.
UPSTRETCH VARIATION 1Start in your upstretch position (downward dog) pushing both
hands into the floor and drawing your tailbone to the ceiling. Try
to drop your heels towards the floor without compromising your
spine position. Hold this for a few breaths.
Once you feel stable in this position slowly move your right
hand to your left ankle and maintain your body position. Hold
this for 3 breaths then repeat with the left hand to right ankle.UPSTRETCH VARIATION 2Start in your upstretch position as above. Once you feel stable in
this position slowly move your right hand to hold your right ankle.
On your next exhalation slowly extend your left leg up and out
behind you, reaching towards the ceiling.
Try to maintain this position for at least one breath cycle then
repeat on the other side.