Page 322 - Total War on PTSD

pain over the years; that is where I was violated. Pilates has helped me slowly but surely release the tension in my hips and the rest of my body.
Fourth, a distraction/coping mechanism. When I am practicing Pilates, I do not have the capacity to allow my mind to race. This is the most powerful part of Pilates to me. In the past, I have tried other methods of exercise to cope, and they just don’t work as well. Activities like running and biking just gave me more time to think so they weren’t terribly productive. Moreover, they usually exacerbated my physical pain, especially in the knees, so the reasons why I had to find something new intensified. In my Pilates classes I have to maintain a laser focus to perform the exercises with precision. My anxiety, especially racing thoughts, are no match to Pilates and the focus it requires!
Even after an advanced and/or challenging session I feel energized instead of tired. It is my personal goal to make my clients feel this way after every class or session, because it feels so good.
Finally, opportunities for social interaction. For me this meant support from individuals who are open to hear about my experience and creatively assist with support and/or solutions. As someone with PTSD, especially anxiety, it became increasingly difficult for me to socialize, and I found that I frequently isolated myself. The Pilates classes I attend are small and easier for me to handle. I have been able to build new relationships with my Pilates community locally and on a national level by attending conferences. Time and time again, I have found a collaborative community and people that are open to share ideas and to listen.
When looking for a class to attend, I would inquire on the class size. The smaller the class, the easier it may be for you to attend, especially if you have social anxiety like I do. It is also common to practice Pilates one on one with an instructor, like personal training at a gym. Many Pilates studios are relatively small, and are not busy or loud, and are designed to be a calm and quiet sanctuary. It is common to ask a lot of questions before you choose a studio so don’t be shy to ask about things that concern you, or to ask for a
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