The chiropractor and the Pilates professional can work together to benefit health. The chiropractor places a strong emphasis on correcting spinal subluxations and establishing a normal neurological balance in all the tissues of the body. Although someone may be receiving chiropractic care and spinal misalignments are corrected, it will be temporary if the muscles and the fascia are not corrected, also. Pilates helps to strengthen and stretch the spine’s supporting muscles, which helps hold chiropractic adjustments.

Core strength is the foundation of Pilates exercise. The core muscles are the deep, internal muscles of the abdomen, back and pelvic floor. When the core muscles are strong and aligned properly, they work in tandem with the more superficial muscles of the trunk to support the spine and movement. The pressure on the back is relieved, so the body is able to move freely and efficiently.

Barbara Bruni, owner and trainer at Pilates Core Training in Pensacola, recalls, “I read Joseph Pilates’ works and realized what a spiritually driven man he was. He wrote, ‘The mind, when housed within a healthy body, possesses a glorious sense of power,” and realized that to have change in the world, people had to first have healthy bodies. He was one of the first contemporary mind/body gurus. I now look at bodies as a riverbed. The blockages determine how the current flows through the body. This lets me see how I am going to develop their program. I am also a firm believer in ‘As above, so below.’” 

People with conditions such as scoliosis, herniated discs, stenosis, strains/sprains, osteoarthritis and many other chronic conditions have experienced pain relief and improved help by do therapeutic Pilates, which strengthens weak and injured areas. This new stabilization can bring about effective pain relief.

In her practice, Bruni explains, “Even though I am working with the physical body, it affects the whole body. Our bodies are emotional, mental and spiritual, with behavior patterns and belief systems. When blockages release and the body is aligned and balanced, it moves with greater ease. It requires less energy to function, leaving energy for other functions. Good posture become effortless and breathing is easier. When the physical body’s alignment improves, the person has a greater potential. There can be less stress, greater coping skills, increased confidence and more happiness.”

 

Bruni’s Pilates TV show can be seen on UWF-TV, MWF 8:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.., Cox channel 4.