Dear Back,

I'm sorry you're taking all of the weight of the world. I've been taught and conditioned to think that you've got everything handled, and/or it's your job to handle everything. It's not your job. It's not anyone's job. I promise to start taking care of my self, my being. "Self care" is not selfish. It's our actual job. The one we were conditioned away from living. I will learn to love me again, and in turn, love you. And I've been told, we're fully supported! Yeah, I know, it's a shock to me, too. We are fully supported. Thank you, for helping feel the pain I ignore. I love you, Julia

I believe it's widely know that Pilates is great for back injuries and aliments. It was my understanding going into the program, and after twenty years of teaching I can report that is the case 99% of the time. Most back injuries I've taught are just about stretching and strengthening within your means. Even when it comes to herniated discs. I've seen people walk in crippled to working up and doing the advanced workout.

I've had so many of my clients tell me about the many books they read about back injuries being emotional. Yes, I said it! Their back injury was emotional. They'd tell me how reading the book and doing Pilates helped their back. And years of teaching those with herniated discs, I would come to find out that they never suffered an injury like a car accident or falling down the stairs or skiing accident. They were sitting in their office chairs. All these people were regular Pilates clients. They came in twice a week. For years. They understood the benefit. 

I too, after being certified for about ten years had a horrible back injury. I had been taking care of my mother with dementia. Enough said for those who know what that entails! The pain was so bad that I thought I had herniated discs. I went for a few massages and they told me that nothing was wrong, but it was hard to believe. I eventually met this amazing chiropractor in Elwood, Long Island that finally helped! I sat and filled out a fifteen page inquiry in detail about how I was feeling and what was going on in my life. WHAT???? I couldn't believe it!?!!! I had known for years that this was the issue with my clients, but couldn't apply it to myself. It took just one person to consciously care and it started melting away. And I was able to apply my workout accordingly.

I want those who suffer with back pain to know that there is a way. A way to be pain free and not feel like you're going to break in half. A way to maintain your health. A way around the emotional baggage that gets stuck in our bodies. There is a way, and I'm here to help.

Let me know how this hits you! If you have any stories to share! Sending so much Love, Light and Blessings, Julia