Welcome to this week’s Newsletter.

Have you had a good week? Lots of the JTP family are taking holidays at the moment while the schools are back, so if this is you I hope you are enjoying your time away and making the most of taking time out. Sometimes we don’t realise how much we need this down time until we actually take it, but then it feels so good, and we return to regular routine fully refreshed and re-energised — more about this in this week’s Your Whole Self.

Face-to-Face Classes are all running as normal this week. Jenny is using handweights in her classes which is really beneficial to overall fitness and health, and I’m sure you are all feeling it. As teachers, we like to add in some props to our classes occasionally — they can provide a different feel to the exercises, sometimes more challenging, sometimes more supportive, but all aiming to create a more beneficial workout. 

The good news is we are looking at the feasibility of adding a second Face-to-Face class to Thursday evenings, with Jenny at Rempstone Village Hall from November. If you are interested or if you have any friends or relatives who would like more information, please get in touch by replying to this Newsletter.

Online Classes are also running as normal this week. Remember that all the Live classes are recorded and available on the members’ jtp.zone website, to repeat or do at a more convenient time to fit your schedule. 

Finally, some more good online class news — I've added a new online Reformers At Home class to the members' jtp.zone website.

Let’s keep moving together.

During October I am looking at exercises in a Prone position (lying face down) and in week 1 I introduced heel digs, focusing on the movement through the upper body. So this week I am adding the heel digs and demonstrate more about technique and the purpose of this exercise. 

As I am focusing into the prone position I haven’t demonstrated alternatives for this exercise, but will look at this in next week’s Exercise Of The Week.

Remember to keep away from pain and move appropriately for your body, and if you have any questions about this or other Exercise Of The Week, please let me know.

Taking Time Out: Why You Deserve It (Without the Guilt!)

Let me ask you something: when was the last time you took a moment just for you? I mean a real, guilt-free "I'm putting my feet up and letting the world spin without me for a while" kind of moment. 

I did this on Friday when I got home from teaching my morning classes. I knew I had lots to do, for work, in the house, in the garden — to make the most of the sunshine. However, instead I made a pot of tea, and sat with my book and a cuppa in the sunshine for half an hour. It was great, I just felt I needed to take a breath. Did I feel guilty? Yes I did a bit, but then I was very productive in the afternoon, and I feel I probably would have flagged a bit, if I hadn’t had the break.

This is the thing, if you're anything like me (and others) you probably do feel a pang of guilt if you think about taking time out just for you. There's that nagging voice, reminding you of all the things you "should" be doing instead. Sound familiar?

Well, I’m here to tell you, that you deserve to take time out for yourself, and here's why.

You Can't Pour from an Empty Cup

This is a very common saying, but it's true. If you're constantly giving to others without filling up your own reserves, you’ll burn out faster than a candle in a hurricane — and we’ve heard about a few of these this week and the devastation they can cause! 

Taking a break, whether it's 10 minutes of deep breathing or a Pilates session, or just doing nothing, but doing it just for you, gives your mind and body a chance to recharge. And when you return to the world (or the washing), you'll feel sharper, calmer, and more ready to take on whatever comes your way.

Mental Space is Magic

When we’re constantly on the go, it’s like being in a hamster wheel — lots of energy, but not much forward movement. By stepping off that wheel and giving your brain a little downtime, you create space for creativity, clarity, and sanity. Taking time out allows your mind to wander and come up with those brilliant ideas that often get buried under to-do lists and everyday chaos. All my best ideas come from when I’m taking time out.

Guilt Has No Place Here

We live in a world that makes us feel like productivity equals worth. If we're not doing, we're failing. But here's what I believe, you are worthy just as you are, whether you're ticking off tasks or curled up with a book and a cuppa. Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s essential. And no, you don’t have to earn it. You don’t need a gold star before you’re “allowed” to rest.

Remember: You Matter

It’s easy to put yourself at the bottom of the list, and I have spoken about this a lot in my Your Whole Self section over the years, especially when there are so many others depending on you. But here’s a gentle reminder: you are just as important as everything else on that list. In fact, when you take care of yourself, you’re actually able to take care of others better. It really is a win-win!

Let’s Make It a Habit

How about this? Instead of waiting until you’re totally exhausted, why not schedule regular “you-time”? Whether it’s a weekly Pilates class, a walk in the park, or simply some quiet time with your thoughts, make it a non-negotiable part of your routine. And the next time that guilty voice tries to creep in, kindly remind it that taking care of yourself is a gift to everyone around you.

So, here’s my challenge to you: this week, take time out. No guilt, no excuses. Just pure, unapologetic self-care. Because you matter, and you deserve it.

Have a great week folks — keep looking, moving and feeling good.

With love

Jane xxx