The Center

Blog for Pilates style March 15, 2011

Remember the Center

 

Before the “core” there was the “center”. I don’t believe Joe Pilates  every referred to the core.

With all due respect to the term “ the core”, it  is overused and misunderstood. ..Although it has its place in Pilates and physical therapy, It is used for everything from skate boarding to wind surfing to cooking! As a Movement specialist I take offense at everything strengthening the core and forgetting the concept of the center.

The center is as ancient as life itself.  Eastern Masters used the “chi” to refer to that point within the body where all energy emanates .  It is an important foundation found in tai chi, chi gong, and other Eastern teachings.  What I love about Pilates , is that it is the combination of Eastern and Western philosophies of Movement and thought.   That was the brilliance of Joe Pilates, and that is what I ascribe to this day. I think that mindful living, both physically and mentally, incorporates the best of Eastern and Western thought.   One cannot escape the brilliance of both modes of thinking.

 

What is the Center?

It is one of the basic principles of Pilates, along with coordination, precision, flowing movement, and breath.  I take each new client, whether they  have had Pilates or not, through a basic “how to find your center” exercise.  Face a mirror and take a look at the way you  stand.  Are your hips in alignment?  Are your shoulders square? Imagine a laser beam running through your hips from each direction, keeping your hips stable and aligned. I talk of their hipbones like the headlights of a car, each facing forward directly and evenly.  Now,  place one hand on your lower abdominals, and the other at the lower back. Imagine a laser beam from one end to the other.  Then, at the “center” of your body where those two points meet, imagine a sphere, the size of a ping ball with the energy of the sun.  That is the “center” from which all movement comes from. Instead of lifting your  arm from the shoulder blade, or deltoid, imagine you are lifting from the center. This allows a more fluid, energetic and aligned movement that will lengthen and strengthen your muscles in a way that is proficient and graceful. Your whole body is activated as each muscle group comes alive.   When you are walk down the street imagine you are walking from your center.  Most people move from their heads, pelvis, knees, or other extremities.  By moving from your  center, you’re moving and staying in  correct body  alignment.  Your posture becomes erect,  you look and feel more confident. Most important, grace, power and beauty exude from your inner Spirit and flows into your everyday activities.