There’s nothing like a good virus to remind you that your body is ageing, is there?
So this week’s Your Whole Self is inspired by how we can take care of ourselves when a touch of reality hits!
Let’s talk about intentional movement, healthy habits, and lifestyle practices that
keep us feeling vibrant and well.
1. Bone Health: Building a Strong Foundation
As we age, maintaining bone density becomes essential for reducing the risk of fractures or osteoporosis and sometimes they creep up on us even though we feel we are doing everything we can. So keep doing your Pilates because it provides weight-bearing exercises which are fantastic for bone health, helping to strengthen muscles and joints,
stabilise balance, and keep the spine and hips resilient. By practising strength-based movement, we can protect our bones and maintain our ability to move freely and confidently.
2. Mobility: Stay Flexible, Stay Feeling Young
Mobility is often associated with youth, but maintaining flexibility and range of motion is crucial as we get older. Regular movement keeps our joints lubricated, reduces stiffness, and helps us move easier
and more freely. Pilates emphasises controlled movements, making it ideal for maintaining joint health and keeping the body mobile.
3. Breath Work: Fuel for Body and Mind
Our breath is deeply tied to how our body moves and feels. At any age it’s important to support lung capacity, circulation, and relaxation — all of which can benefit from focused breathing techniques, but this becomes more important as we get a bit older. Some
of the breath work we do in Pilates emphasises controlled, deep breaths that enhance oxygen flow, calm the mind, and aid in muscle control and core strength. Mindful breathing is also a fantastic way to reduce stress and create a sense of peace within the body.
4. Getting Outside: Movement for the Mind and Spirit
Being outdoors provides both physical and mental benefits. Studies show that spending time outside boosts mood,
supports vitamin D levels, and even reduces inflammation. Outdoor walks, gentle stretches in the fresh air, or mindful movement outside help us feel more connected to nature which has shown to lift our spirits, and adds more joy to our life.
5. Diet and Nutrition: Fueling Your Movement
Movement alone is powerful, but put it together with nourishing foods is the foundation for maintaining energy and overall health. A balanced
diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, protein, and healthy fats supports bone health, muscle repair, and cellular regeneration. As we get older, focusing on whole foods and staying hydrated becomes even more important in fueling both our bodies and minds for an active, engaged lifestyle.
6. Whole-Self Health: A Holistic Approach to Aging
True wellness goes beyond just physical fitness — it’s about nurturing our whole selves.
Prioritising rest and relaxation, mental health, and social connection is vital. When we take a holistic approach, including movement, mindful breathing, time outdoors, and balanced nutrition, we create a balanced life that sustains us well throughout life.
As we continue to move through life, embracing these practices will help us to maintain vitality, strength, and peace of mind. Movement is a gift — an opportunity to honour our bodies and invest in ourselves every single
day. Through balanced intentional movement, we can feel our best at every stage of life, celebrating the joy and freedom that come from feeling strong and capable.
Have a great week, thank you for reading — and keep moving, feeling and looking good.
With love
Jane xx
