How my ADHD brain has led me to the world of Pilates
*Post originally created on January 29th, 2020
Back in 2012 I had a nervous breakdown...
After been diagnosed with ADHD and Central Auditory Processing Disorder, I decided that a holistic would suit me best, and hopefully, help me place the pieces (or my brain) back together. Yoga and or Pilates were suggested by my therapist to help me regulate my central nervous system. Most often than not, we arrive all stressed out to a Pilates session and then find ourselves calm and centered within 20 min into the session...no music, no distraction - the first few movements, usually in flexion, help us reconnect to our first experience as a newborn. It gives the sense of being at one with ourselves, enhances your ability to connect to yourself, bringing your mind to the present moment.
But how exercise is related to a healthy central nervous systems?
Exercise has proven to help decrease anxiety and depression as stimulates the nervous system and releases a variety of chemicals in the brain, increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain, even in those who are older and have been sedentary. More blood flow to the brain means that cells have more fuel to operate, supporting the brain’s support network.
Having a beautiful brain that might stray in a million directions and interests (at the same time!) Pilates has stood the test of time for me.
Our brains are not only plagued with disfunction but also it's emotionally draining having to deal with the guilt, the anxiety, depression, embarrassment, insecurities..and so on.
The discipline, consistency, order, focus and memorization required to become proficient in the method, helped me regulate my nervous system and subsequently, my brain function.
Another skill our body maintains on a subconscious level is the ability to maintain our posture. Most people can sit or stand upright without a lot of thought. But for some people, especially children with learning disabilities, the strength along their core muscles (muscles in the abdomen, back, chest and neck) is very often “weak” which makes it harder for them to connect to those muscles efficiently.
Having two children with learning disabilities myself, made me realize how movement is an essential component to physical and mental development. Paying close attention to the way they move and how they integrate the movement, the dynamic of the body performing daily tasks: sitting, standing, walking, jumping...requires practice and awareness. It is important to note that not all children with learning disabilities present trunk/core instability.
A Pilates studio brings the perfect element that enables
the individual to focus on their learning process.
The organization, cleanliness, and a low key, no music environment, can positively impact the integration mind/body.
I am honored to share my Pilates journey with you all and look forward to not only helping those with ADHD, but anyone suffering from issues of focus, connection and overstimulation. Joseph Pilates understood that the well-being of an individual could only be achieved by engaging mind and body.
If my story resonates with you, do not hesitate to send a message! My belief is that by sharing experiences and connecting with others, we can potentially help those around us to improve their lives through movement. Mental Health Matters!
Yours Truly,
Ingrid
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