finding my way back to movement
a slow return to something that feels like home
I took my first in-person mat Pilates class at my favorite studio this week, and… it was everythingggg!
I’m sore (in the best way), but it felt so good to be back in a space that feels like a safe haven for me. And that place is KKRU. Seeing my instructor and familiar faces welcome me back was really special. One of those moments where you don’t realize how much you missed something until you’re back in it.
I kept it simple and started with Classical Pilates Mat Foundations & Progressions class taught by Dee J, who was amazing and really helped me with a few modifications as I eased back in. It’s been a while since I’ve been on a mat like that, and I didn’t want to rush the process. This felt like the right class to start with.
That said, I didn’t go in completely cold.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve slowly been getting back into movement at home through Alo Wellness Club, specifically Bianca Wise’s Foundation series. It helped me reconnect with the basics and made stepping back into an in-person class feel a lot less intimidating. Plus, I really liked her cues and teaching style. Oh, and did I mention it’s free?
I’ve also been adding in evening walks when I can. Nothing crazy, just an hour to move, clear my head, and be outside. Although, pollen has definitely been my nemesis lately, so it’s been a little hit or miss.
There are also a few Pilates instructors I love and keep coming back to, whether online or in class: Brittany from Sweet Soul Pilates, Toluwa from Pilates by Tee, Kiersten of Well with Kiersten, and Bianca Wise’s Alo répertoire. I also really enjoy a good sculpt class with Raven of PilatesBodyRaven has been my go-to for that. Each of them has such a thoughtful approach to movement, and I always feel good after taking their classes.
My journey with Pilates really started in March 2024 (okay, two years), and it’s been one of the most grounding forms of movement for me. That said, it doesn’t have to be Pilates for you. I know it’s having a moment (for good reason - Joseph knew what he was doing), and classical Pilates is such a strong, intentional practice, but it doesn’t have to be your thing.
There’s HIIT, sculpt, yoga, walking, strength training, running, core work, barre… so many ways to move your body.
Just move your body, sis!
The goal is to find what moves you and what fits your body in the season you’re in.
Getting back into this rhythm feels really good. At your own pace!
Especially knowing that we’ll be trying again in a few months, I want to feel strong, grounded, and connected to my body. Not in a pressure-filled way, but in a way that feels supportive and intentional.
Right now, this is what that looks like for me. Starting slow. Coming back to the basics. And letting my body lead the way.
x, holy