When it comes to staying healthy during cold and flu season, the benefits of Pilates go beyond the physical. Engaging in regular Pilates practice not only strengthens muscles and improves flexibility, but it also boosts immunity, reducing the likelihood of succumbing to common colds and flus. This holistic approach to wellness helps support both the body and mind, providing a natural defense against seasonal ailments.
Joseph Pilates and the 1918 Influenza Pandemic
The story of Pilates—both the man and the method—has deep historical ties to health and immunity. During the devastating influenza pandemic of 1918, Joseph Pilates was interned in a camp in England. Despite the widespread nature of the outbreak, none of Joseph Pilates’ students fell ill. Pilates was determined to keep everyone physically active even in the most challenging of conditions, and he believed in using movement to support the body’s health and resilience.
He developed his exercises to help maintain the strength, circulation, and overall well-being of his fellow internees. This story is a powerful testament to the importance of physical exercise in supporting immune function and protecting against illness. Today, this legacy continues as people around the world use Pilates to not only feel strong but to stay well.
- Improves Circulation
Pilates exercises focus on controlled, fluid movements that help increase blood flow throughout the body. Improved circulation is essential for immune health, as it allows immune cells to travel more efficiently, reaching affected areas and fighting off viruses. The flowing movements of Pilates, especially exercises like rolling like a ball and the spine stretch, work to get the blood moving and enhance oxygen delivery throughout the body.
- Reduces Stress
Chronic stress is known to weaken the immune system, making it more challenging to ward off infections. Pilates emphasizes mindful movement and controlled breathing, which helps lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation. When stress levels decrease, your body’s immune defenses are better equipped to take on any viruses or bacteria that come your way.
- Boosts Lung Function
Deep, diaphragmatic breathing is a core element of Pilates practice. Joseph Pilates himself often emphasized the importance of breathing correctly, using the lungs fully and deeply to take in oxygen and expel toxins. Improving lung function through Pilates exercises not only supports respiratory health but also equips your body with a stronger defense system to fend off viruses that commonly attack the respiratory system.
- Strengthens the Core and Posture
A strong core means more than just toned abs—it helps support your entire system. The muscles in your core also play a role in stabilizing the body and ensuring all organs are supported, including the diaphragm, which plays a critical role in breathing. When the body is aligned properly, and posture is improved, organs function optimally, helping the immune system to do its job.
- Improves Sleep Quality
Getting enough quality sleep is one of the most crucial components of a healthy immune system. Pilates can contribute to better sleep by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, making it easier for you to fall asleep and stay asleep. Exercises such as the hip release or rolling down at the end of your workout can promote a sense of calm, preparing your body for rest.
- Encourages Mind-Body Awareness
Pilates helps you tune in to what your body needs. By practicing Pilates regularly, you develop an awareness of your body’s signals. This means that when you’re feeling fatigued or run-down, you’re more likely to respond appropriately—taking the necessary rest, staying hydrated, and focusing on recovery.
- A Natural Detoxifier
Movement in Pilates helps stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays an essential role in immunity by flushing out toxins and helping to fight infections. Movements that twist and invert, such as the Saw or Spine Twist, assist in moving lymph throughout the body, supporting detoxification and strengthening immune defenses.
Pilates as a Preventative Health Measure
Joseph Pilates always said that physical fitness was the first requisite of happiness. His philosophy of keeping the body healthy and moving regularly has stood the test of time. As we head into another cold and flu season, using Pilates as a preventative health measure allows you to build a body that’s not only strong and flexible but also resilient and capable of keeping illness at bay.
Pilates, with its emphasis on full-body wellness, is a powerful tool to help you stay ahead of illness, just as it protected Joseph Pilates’ students over a century ago. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to the method, incorporating Pilates into your routine may be just what you need to stay healthy this season.
Ready to Boost Your Immunity with Pilates?
Evolution Pilates offers in-studio and virtual lessons to help you get started on your wellness journey. Book a session today to see how Pilates can be your ally in staying healthy this cold and flu season. Book a session now.
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