The Year in Review -- #moveit

As Swans we love to see you in the studio! It is so inspiring to see our clients growing their practice week to week. As much as we wish that we could see each and every one of you three times a week, every week of the year, life just does not always allow for that kind of consistency. Giving you the tools in the studio to take home with you is just as important to us. This year we created one of our favorite sections of the blog to help encourage and shape your at home practice. #moveit posts usually come at the end of one of our monthly series. Incorporating the information presented in a series into a specific set of exercise allows you to embody what you have just read on your computer screen. These #moveit posts can be used to enhance your at home practice or give you some new ideas and reminders about what we do at The Swan. These series are great to practice while away on vacation (if you already do this, bravo!). From your feet to your core to your wings, we have an exercise for you. Can't find an exercise series for a certain body part you are interested in learning more about? Let us know! Take a look at this photo gallery and #moveit today!

 


Calm

I don't know about you, but with the holidays in full effect I am having an incredibly hard time focusing, staying calm and taking the time I need to stay sane. This is the time of year when the days are short but the work is longggg. We have what feels like an infinite number of deadlines and tasks to wrap up. The to do lists are literally littering the floor. This is the MOST important time of year to slow down, breathe and make sure you keep your body healthy. For the high stress New Yorkers out there, this is a really tempting time to up the intensity of workouts to relieve stress, but what if we just chilled out? Let's do a test:

Have a comfortable seat and (after you read this :)) close your eyes. Take a slow 4 count inhale into your belly and a slow 4 count exhale. Repeat 3 times. Now a slow 6 count inhale into the sides of your ribs and a slow 6 count exhale. Repeat 3 times. NOW take a slow 6 count inhale and try to expand the front and back of your ribs as well as the sides and then an 8 count exhale. Repeat 3 times.  Return your breath to normal.

Did you make it through? Did you get frustrated, give up or give in? Do you feel more clear headed? After doing this breathing exercise, you may have a more clear idea about what you need for your body. Taking the time to breath, and be still, can help your mind calm down, give you some perspective and just make you feel a whole lot better!


The Year in Review -- Six Limbs

One of our very first blog posts! We reference the idea of six limbs often in class and during our sessions. Check this post out and let us know if you have any questions when you see us in the studio next!

We wanted to share the idea of six limbs. Dancers use this approach to the body often, and it can help add length and stability to the way you work in and out of the studio. 

You have probably reasoned that four of those six limbs are your arms and legs. True. The fifth and sixth are your head and tail. When we address head here we are speaking of the crown of the head rather than chin, neck or focus. So, truly the top of your torso. Inversely your tail limb is the truly the bottom of your torso. We are again thinking center rather than where you would actually have a tail if it grew from the back of your pelvis. If you were to drop a plumb line from the crown of your head or head limb through the center of torso you would reach your tail limb. *See below for a helpful image to investigate finding this limb further. It's as though you are approaching your whole body like a six limbed starfish.

How do these limbs work in Pilates? Many ways! You can stand or direct weight through all six of your limbs, head and tail included. Often times directing length and energy through limbs can organize your musculature to work in concert. Stuck in your laundry list of corrections? Try directing through or standing in your limbs instead.  

Here are some examples found in common Pilates Exercises:

In a handstand you are standing on your arms, reaching your legs to the ceiling.  If you have tried this, you will know that it is necessary to reach strongly through both ends of your torso--head and tail!

In Leg Circles you lengthen equally through your head and tail limbs to create stability while you articulate your legs through space. 

In Cat on the push through bar you stand through your arms and legs while moving and directing through your head and tail limbs.  

In Roll up Roll down on the Cadillac you use all six limbs. You need to actively lengthen through your head and tail while moving them, stand in your feet/legs and direct through your arms.

These relationships and intentions are dynamic and alive. They change as your orientation to the springs, gravity and the surface you are working on shifts.

*Joseph Pilates does Starfish on the reformer. A clear utilization of all six limbs!

*Joseph Pilates does Starfish on the reformer. A clear utilization of all six limbs!

**Here is a strong and clear image for tail limb from Cara Resser of Pilates Aligned: Think of a bundle of balloons and how the strings all collect to one point. Now imagine that you have such a string from your tail bone, each sitting bone and your pubic symphysis. These drop straight down to the floor and pull equally into one point- your tail limb. 

Musical TBT: SpottieOttieDopaliscious

This song... because it is pure musical magic. It does not even need a fancy video to accompany it. We are perfectly content to sit in front of a computer screen staring at the Aquemini album cover while those horns transport us back in time to the many moments that this was played on a jukebox at our favorite dive bar, or was blasted through our car stereo because we put it on almost every mixed tape/cd that we ever made. This song...

The Year in Review -- Shorty Swan Explains our Series!

There is a never ending supply of things to talk about when it comes to our bodies and how to use and take care of them. In our efforts to share our knowledge and passion of the magically complicated thing that is the human body, and to help shape these discussions on the blog, we have begun to create a series of series, if you will! Focusing on specific areas of the body, fundamental concepts of Pilates, bones, muscles, and anything else we can think of, these series are created to give you a chance to expand your knowledge, one topic at a time! Our series include at home exercise tips and anatomy lessons from yours truly. We also love to shed light on the beauty of the body, with quotes and images inspired by our topics.

Although new series are introduced generally every month, there are always new things to explore within the topics. We will continue to add to our current series even as we create new ones! Take a look at past topics you might have missed and let us know what you are interested in learning about next!!

 

 

#yearinreview in which we introduce or re-introduce all of the wonderful content we have been adding to the blog this year. With so much to look through, and a better organization system forthcoming but not here yet, we hope this series sheds some light on everything the blog has to offer!

 

 

#breath in which we talk about the ever important and constant function of breathing. It is a  universal and anchoring act that is so important to develop in your practice. This series focuses on the physical act of breathing, how to notice your breath and its affect on the body and the mind, body, spirit connection of this life giving force!

 

 

#expand in which we focus on your "wings", how to open up your chest and strengthen the upper back. Understand the difference between flexion and extension and begin the process of learning about the gazillion interconnected parts of the shoulder girdle and upper back!

#corevalues in which we focus on that oh so important power house known as the core. With information on the core functions, all those ab muscles, the pelvis and more, this series covers a lot of ground and includes an amazing video to utilize in your at-home practice!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#monthofthefoot in which we talk about where it all begins. Stability, alignment and support all start here. This series focuses on the bones of the foot and ways to strengthen and articulate these constantly used and oft neglected body parts. It even includes information on the best shoes to wear for your foot needs!   

 

Keep your eyes peeled for more great info in 2015!!

Gift Ideas for Your Holiday Season! (mostly from our #friends)

We believe in community. It is something that we strive to recognize and pay homage to on our blog. From posts like #wearetheswan to #SwanQ&A to #friends, it's pretty obvious how amazing our Swan community is! In this holiday season we are fortunate to be able to shine a light on some of this community, and help you complete that holiday shopping list in the process!

Copa Soaps: All natural soaps made from wonderfully soothing ingredients! You can buy these soaps online or head to the holiday market at Union Square to scoop up one for everybody on your list. With so many scents to choose from, Copa Soaps are the perfect stocking stuffer or thoughtful and useful gift for co-workers, neighbors and extended family!

 

Dallas Clayton: We really cannot get enough of Mr. Clayton's witty, off-kilter, thoughtful musings and art, in both his books and on his blog. We take pretty much any opportunity we have to share his special wisdom with the rest of our friends. You can find his books in most places that books are sold. His website features t-shirts, totes and prints that make excellent gifts for kids and adults!

Free Range Wines: Heading to a holiday party after your Pilates session at out BK location? Hop across the street and pick up a bottle of wine at Free Range Wines. With a wonderful selection and knowledgable staff, we highly recommend going here for all of you holiday spirit needs. Their selection of local whiskeys is not to be beat!

Jill Lindsey: We have adored this store ever since our first visit in July! You can really get into the holiday spirit by heading to Jill Lindsey this Saturday the 13th for their Holiday Bazaar. The stressful task of gift finding is made significantly more pleasant with complimentary prosecco, ornament making and Santa Claus! 

Kiley Durham: A fellow southern transplant, Kiley makes stunning jewelry that we adore. Lovely things abound on her website, from her seed pearl necklace to her stunning black druzy quartz earrings, to her blog. Find that perfect special gift and keep her in mind for any custom designed wedding needs.  

Lady Grey: The Brooklyn based jewelry design duo of Lady Grey creates bold and beautiful jewelry. We are big fans of pretty much everything, but specifically their stunning rings...every single one of them!

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Nova Perfumes: With a focus on collaboration, Nova is know for creating custom formulas tailored to a person's taste and skin/chemistry. You can also purchase their signature scent, Chakra, or check out a few of the other collaborations for sale on the site or at one of these stores! You can also check out Nova's wonderful Tumblr to get a peak into the custom fragrance making process!

The Primary Essentials: Another Bk Swan neighbor, this store carries a plethora of jewelry, books and home goods. It is a wonderfully curated collection of objects by independent artisans and designers. Go here to find a gift for that one impossible person on your list! 

 

 

Red Clay Hot Sauce: If you read our SwanQ&A with chef Geoff Rhyne, then you are already familiar with his passion for food. He recently launched his Red Clay Hot Sauce. It is a hot-sauce-lovers hot sauce that tastes great on just about anything. Perfect for anyone who enjoys a little kick to their palette!   

Sad Boys Club: Got a hip young gentleman on your present list with no idea what to get him? Hard to go wrong with a hat, t-shirt or sweatshirt from the Sad Boys Club.

Upstate: Our friends at Upstate are busy this season! Tomorrow night (Dec. 9) you can find them selling one-of-a-kind items from their collection at Drift Studios from 6 to 9. They will also be at NY Pop Up Flea Dec. 12-14. And do not miss out on our limited edition, custom-dyed Swan leggings, available now at the studio!  

The Wild Unknown: Kim Krans is a talented artist whose work you can check out first hand at our Manhattan location. You can find her collection of beautiful zodiac illustration prints, kids books, tarot cards and shirts on her website. The tarot deck is to die for and her blog is lovely as well! 

 

Other Swan Suggestions: If you missed our most recent #readingrecommendations post, check it out to get ideas for the kids on your list and the inner kid in the adults on your list. No one can deny the comfort and style that is our new swan merch!! No matter what the holiday, you can always give the gift of practice! A 10 pack of private sessions is on sale all week!

Happy Birthday Joseph Pilates!

Joe Pilates was born on December 9, 1883. In celebration, we give this Birthday special to you! For the week of Joe's birthday, December 7 to the 14, we are offering a special to our Manhattan and Brooklyn clients. 

The Uncle Joe Bday 10pack for $830- that's $83 per session in honor of Joe being born in 1883! Purchase online or in the studio. Expires in 6 months. Normal taxes and fees apply. Limit 2 per customer. 

10 things to know about Uncle Joe

- Joseph Pilates was born in Mönchengladbach, a German town whose name has been changed at least 4 times since it beginnings in 974. 

 

- Mr. Pilates was not always the barrel-chest strongman we have come to know and love. He was a sickly child who suffered from asthma and rheumatic fever.

 

- When he moved to England in 1912, Uncle Joe earned a living with many an odd job, including being a circus performer!

- Joe returned to Germany after WWI. He even trained the police force there for a few years, deciding to emigrate to America in 1925 when he was pressured to train the German Army.

 

- Joseph's new life began before he even arrived in America. He met his future wife Clara on the ship bringing him to the United States.

 

- With a prize-winning gymnast for a father and a naturopath for a mother, it is no wonder the Pilates method combines mind, body and spirit.

 

- Never one to be ashamed of his body, especially after spending years becoming strong and healthy, Joseph posed for anatomical charts as a teen.

- Dance and Pilates have always been close friends. Some of Joseph's earliest devotees included Martha Graham and George Balanchine. 

 

- Where ballerinas go, society women will follow. Or at least in 1930's New York they did. "Contrology" really took off after it became known that dancers were flocking to the Pilates gym.

 

- A renaissance man of sorts, Uncle Joe had over 26 cited patents for his inventions, many of which are stilled used in the teaching of Pilates today!

we are the swan - Shaina

Name: Shaina

Profession: Non-Profit Programs Associate

What is your favorite Pilates cue?

I appreciate any cue that reminds me to take a moment and really put my focus on the part of my body that I should be using. Basically, when Julia reminds me I should be using my body and my head, I like it!

What are you reading right now?

I am re-reading Black Swan Green by David Mitchell and first time reading the last of an old series that I love, The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper. The last book is called Silver On the Tree and somehow I just never got to the end even though I have read the first two books four or five times! 

Go out or stay in?

Stay in!

How does Pilates affect your life outside the studio?

Pilates makes me feel more comfortable and grounded in my body. It also encourages me to think about my body in a mindful and intelligent way in a way.  It makes me feel connected and centered and has had a tremendous affect on my shoulder girdle and upper back tension/pain. More than anything, Pilates affects sneak up on me in everyday life, like when I adjust how I am holding on to the railing on a crowded subway, or when I position myself for sleep.  

Do you have a secret hobby or interest (other than Pilates obvi)?

I would calling reading my not so secret interest. My two lesser know hobbies include collage/card making and plant tending. 

The Swan Pilates -- A Year in Review

Dear Swan Community,

We have had an unbelievable year and have seen incredible growth, change, and endless heart from all of you. We are so happy to get to share a new studio, located in Boerum Hill (Brooklyn), with our clients. It is truly a magical space and we can't wait for you to come by, take a class or private, or just stick your head in. We have expanded our Swan teaching community with some brilliant minds and lovely people. We continue to marvel at and love our Manhattan space and its ongoing growth. Clients ask "Is that a new plant?" No! It's just incredibly happy to be bathed in all of this light! We want to thank you for all of your hard work, your support, your presence in our lives, hours together in the studio and just for being awesome clients!

This December, in the spirit of celebrating and reflecting, we are reposting some of our favorite blogs! Many of you are new to our blog. It can be a bit hard to navigate (something we are working to remedy) and we would hate for you to have missed any of our series or other great content! This month we will be explaining each series and hashtag we have created this year. We continue to add to these categories and this month we help you to get to know them. We hope you use the resources of our blog to deepen your Pilates practice, both at home and in the studio! If you have a question or topic you are interested in getting a Swan perspective on in future- reach out! 

Lots of love,

Julia and Eleanor