Prop Time: Let’s manage our stress levels!
We’re coming full circle as this was the first prop I introduced in group mat class when we were meeting in-person! Remember those days!
Stress relief balls help increase focus/attention when used as feedback in exercises. Much like the squishy ball, the stress relief ball provides similar feedback in some exercises. The idea behind the stress relief ball is to close the gap so you can feel connected to your practice and your body.
It’s great for inner thigh connection, as well as keeping your head as the last piece of your spine to stay on top of your spine to reduce forward head syndrome I’m sure we’re all familiar with. Try placing it below your chin, and find length in the back of your neck. Now curl up for the hundred.
Now, here’s the thing about props. They can be tools to teach, or crutches to be dependent on. Of course, we only want these as tools. So, try a couple of reps with props, and then a couple more reps without, and see if you can do the exercises with the right connections that you learned from the prop.
These props give your body and mind feedback to see where you are connected or disconnected. I mean, let’s be real – our body parts may not fully know how to engage and stay engaged during an exercise. So, let’s take some help until our body learns how to do this without props. On the flip side of this, if you tell me you’ve got this, then these props can also add a challenge (read: get you stronger!) to your Pilates mat practice.
A final word on props in general. The props allow you to explore, discover, investigate what is missing in your practice, what you need more of or less of in your practice, and to help you find that connection when you don’t have a prop. Ready to buy one?
No stress relief ball; no problem! I’ve come up with a home substitute. Home substitute: tennis ball, but know this will be more challenging than stress relief balls! Of course, a rolled up hand towel or small pillow will work just fine.
Don’t wait for IRL workouts. Come out of lockdown/quarantine stronger than ever! Besides, online is so much fun! And it’s so nice we still get to see each other. Remember what you can from our classes together, and you can practice on your own during the rest of the week.
Join me in a Wed mat + prop class. Check the schedule for the next one with a stress relief ball. Come with yours or your home substitute.