Mel’s Pilates and Yoga

When I embarked on my latest training venture, ie. Reformer Pilates.I did ask myself why I was putting my myself through all that nerve wracking work and self analysis, self doubt, not to mention being scrutinised and critiqued all over again. Why do it to myself? Did I really need to do it? Do I really want to do it? Do I really feel inspired and motivated to do it at my age? I think the answer to the question is that there is always a curiosity which needs to be fulfilled. There is always something new to learn and I don’t think you really ever stop learning.Just looking around my office at some of the books I’ve collected in the last few years. I can see the thirst for wanting to learn more right before my eyes. No, I haven’t read all these books from cover to cover some of them I’ve only dipped into and there are more. Under my bed, in the lounge, in the loo, some read,some unread some on my “to read” list. Will it ever end? In some ways I hope not. It’s the curiosity that keeps me motivated and makes the job interesting - indeed it is much more than a job. It is a lifestyle. Anyway, enough of that I’ve got to go now because I’ve got some reading to do…

If you’re considering trying Pilates and/or yoga for the first time or returning after a long break, please contact me to discuss how we can work together. You can lose confidence if you are out of a routine or simply feeling unfit. If you’ve suffered an injury or recovering from surgery, cancer treatment or perhaps you are postnatal. All of these things can impact you physically and mentally. Pilates and yoga can also work together as a total wellbeing package. Body and mind in harmony. DM me or email me. Details via my website. Link in bio.

As a busy Pilates instructor and yoga teacher, it’s often difficult to make time to do your own exercise regime. People often ask me what I do to keep myself fit. Of course I do Yoga and Pilates, but I try to keep moving in as many different ways as I can and I always have done. As I’m getting older, I find it even more important. Don’t do less as you age, try to move more! Exercise often gives you more energy and motivation.You may start off not feeling in the right mood or frame of mind, but you ALWAYS feel better for moving. Being outdoors in fresh air also helps mentally. It lifts your spirits when those endorphins kick in.There’s nothing quite like that runner’s high.
I also do reformer Pilates, cycle, swim, do HIIT, strength and circuits classes and weighted walking with my husband when running isn’t an option. I really don’t feel the need to slow down at my age. Those I teach will know that “Keep moving” is my mantra.

This August has seen Mel’s Moves in the garden for yoga and Pilates. I’ve loved teaching my loyal group of yogis and Pilates lovers outside in nature. There’s nothing lovelier than hearing birdsong whilst in savasana.
It’s been great while the mornings have been warm and sunny.
I wish I could do it more often but I know I’m going to be back at the village hall in September as the weather becomes less predictable . I will look forward to doing it again next Summer. We will keep going while the sun shines.
If you’d like to join us, please book via the website (link in my bio) or DM me for more information.

I was apprehensive about teaching reformer Pilates. I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to teach it or not or if I’d even have time to do it. Teaching mat Pilates and yoga completely fills by schedule at the moment. However, it seemed like a natural progression. The course has been intense but I have really enjoyed the in-person workshops. Still not sure which direction I want to take with it but I’ll see where it takes me. Absolutely loved working with this lovely group this weekend and I’m really looking forward to more.

Loved sharing my garden (before it got too hot) with lovely yogis this morning.
We celebrated the Summer Solstice with lots of heart opening poses and sun salutations.
Open your heart to the power and light of the sun. It’s the perfect time to embrace change. Not to over exert and lose energy but to go with the flow and only do the things that really make you happy.

Pilates and yoga classes are on at Caldecote village hall

Tuesday 9:30 am Yoga
Tuesday 7:30 pm Pilates

Thursday 9:30 am Pilates
Thursday 7 pm Pilates

(Saturday morning Yoga may be returning in September )

Book via my website or at
www.mels-moves.co.uk/sessions
Or DM me for more info

I’ve recently been considering traditional pilates in comparison to many versions of modern plates that I see every day. As a Pilates instructor, I’m equally as guilty as many others of drifting away from the traditional. Joseph Pilates would turn in his grave! I know why it’s often done. It’s usually to add variety to a session. Something new to keep students on their toes. Perhaps not wanting to be too predictable. However, let’s not forget how and why it started. Look at the pictures above. When you do the hundred, I bet your legs are not that low. Look at the head position in the seated saw. Let us pay homage to Joseph. I’m going to aim to be more JP next week.

There’s another Pilates and Chill coming up!
Join me on Friday 6th June at 7pm for an hour of Pilates followed by well deserved relaxation using the Chill facilities: ice bath, sauna, hot tub, shower. You can choose which ever you want to use . So don’t worry if you’re not into ice baths- or perhaps it’s one of those things that you’ve always wanted to try!
Either way , come and join me. Book online

Watch this story by Melanie Thompson on Instagram before it disappears. 405 Followers, 878 Following, 368 Posts

Mel’s Moves Pilates & Yoga is back at Caldecote village Hall after a short break.

Saturday 22nd February
9.30 am yoga

Tuesday 25th February.
9:30 am Yoga.
7:30 pm Pilates

Thursday 27th February
9:30 am Pilates
7.00 pm Pilates

Hopefully see you there.
DM me for more information or visit my website:-
www.mels-moves.co.uk

Mel Thompson, Pilates & Yoga. Are you keen on Pilates, yoga or both? I hope you will find lots to interest you here. I shall be keeping you updated with events and classes and a regular blog.