One of the buzz words for 2018 will be “neuroplasticity.” Neuroplasticity is the combined effects of all body processes involved in stabilising or counteracting aging processes. This is a rapidly growing field of research, driven by the voices of baby boomers striving to live long, healthy, productive lives. Effects are far-reaching and may one day be able to slow the onset of dementia, enhance recovery from strokes and heart attacks, and manage other chronic diseases. Currently, neuroplasticity is being investigated as a tool for managing stress, anxiety, overall health and slowing down aging.
This concept of neuroplasticity excited Joan—a connection between the mind and body that could bring about long-term benefits! This past year, she was thrilled to attend two workshops with facia master trainer, Marie-Jose Blom. Marie-Jose’s courses integrate brain science with fascia research, and integrate these into Pilates exercise programs.
Joan returned from these courses invigorated (of course!), with a new, richer understanding of neuroplasticity, and a gym bag full of strategies for applying this understanding to Pilates exercises.
In terms of neuroplasticity, Joan will use the knowledge that “fascia needs the right kind of load environment and movement to control muscle action” to help students build neuroplasticity in her Pilates classes. By facilitating appropriate postural alignment, creating efficient loading patterns, reminders about balance, breathing, and mindful movement, students will be able to better manage stress, anxiety, pain, their overall health and aging processes.