Pilates Hottie: What I Learned in My Classical Pilates Training (and How It’s Helping Me Heal from Autoimmune Pain)

I got certified in Mat Pilates in Miami. I had alot of fun in this training and learned about the movement modality over two weekends. I knew it was an accelerated Pilates training but I didn't know it would stretch me so much. 

Ya’ll know I love a restorative yoga class any day however I’ve been desiring a different pace of movement as I continue to heal and become physically and emotionally stronger. On my birthday trip I took a bunch of Pilates classes to see how my body responded to the exercises and to solidify my desire to add pilates to my teaching repotoire. Most importantly I wanted to relieve back and joint pain.

I did research and found my girl Jungle Johanna, who knows what she’s talking about when it comes to Pilates. Her brand is about empowerment and being unapologetically yourself, and you already know I’m all about that. I paid the coins and made it happen.

I knew when Johanna asked us to make vision boards, take more classes and read a foundation text for Pilates, this training was gonna be good and challenging. This simple activity kept my mission to help and educate women on holistic healing, self-empowerment, and spiritual alignment at the forefront of my mind and heart throughout the training.

My vision board. It felt good to set an intention for this training and new ventures!

From day 1 we learned the fundamentals of classical mat Pilates, the original method designed by Joseph Pilates and the 34 original mat exercises which he believed were the foundation for a strong, healthy body and mind. He called his method "Contrology,” the art of controlling the body through the mind. His goal was to help people move with more grace, strength, and awareness by developing core strength, flexibility, and full-body control. 

Pilates challenges your core, legs and your will. I found that out deeper in training and after class as I integrated what I learned. Pilates felt like physical therapy for my back pain. The intention on breath and my spine helped me stay focused on the mat and remain mindful throughout the movements.

I needed to experience the reset, the routine, and the community of women who were also there to feel strong, centered, and whole.

Mat Pilates Sculpt + Props Teacher Training 10

Classical Pilates is based on six foundational principles laid out by Joseph Pilates who was a German physical trainer who developed the method during World War I to help rehabilitate injured soldiers. These six principles are: Concentration, Control, Centering, Flow, Precision and Breath.

I appreciate knowing that the movements were created with the intention to rehabilitate bodies. This is where I am, consistently seeking ways to strengthen my muscles and maintain physical vitality and flexibility. I also wanna look hotter and ain't nothing wrong with that.

Why This Training Mattered for Me

As someone living with Dermatomyositis (DM)  an autoimmune condition that causes chronic muscle inflammation and weakness, movement is a fine balance between pushing forward and pulling back. Over the last few years, IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) treatments have been a lifeline for me. IVIG helps reduce muscle pain and inflammation by giving my immune system the support it needs, but lately, I haven’t had access to those infusions.

So stepping into this training wasn’t just about learning how to teach Pilates;  it was about remaining well in the middle of what felt like a crisis and remaining hopeful. I have needed a new tool to support my healing and reduce my stress to stay free from flares. Pilates has supported me in staying mindful and centered. 

Babyyyyyy, my body was definitely pushed, but I left the training feeling empowered. I learned that I can trust my body more. My voice in the room is needed and my unique movements display not only diversity but my presence and ability to adapt and modify movements without shame, maybe some days with shame — helps someone else do the same. 

I think people who have disabilities and who move slower or differently deal with an incredible amount of self doubt when joining wellness spaces and attending classes. This is why it's important for me personally to be an adaptable, sensitive and inclusive coach and teacher. 

Testing out, teaching!

Pilates as a Healing Modality for Women with Autoimmune Conditions

Pilates is not just a fitness trend. It’s a therapeutic practice that: 

• Supports spinal mobility and posture (which affects everything from digestion to energy)

• Strengthens the muscles in a way that’s gentle and sustainable

• Improves circulation, helping move lymph and immune cells throughout the body

• Reduces stress, a huge trigger for autoimmune flares

• Enhances breathwork, which regulates the nervous system and supports healing

  
  

For women living with chronic illnesses like Myositis, Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, and other autoimmune diseases, Pilates offers a pathway to reconnect with the body not in spite of illness, but in understanding of the illnesses. In this practice you can modify movements when needed. You can move slowly, or pick up the pace. You can stop and breathe. As with all wellness practices, you get to make it yours for what you need at the moment. Pilates gives me permission and power. 

Me, Jungle Jo and New friends in Pilates. XO.

Do I Like It More Than Yoga?

In some ways… yes. Yoga will always be a sacred part of my life. I'm a yogi, period. But in Pilates, the focus is more specifically on spinal lengthening, core strength, and intentional breath to stretch and stabilize the spine. This is helpful for anyone who deals with muscle pain, joint stiffness, and fatigue.

Yoga moves energy and emotion beautifully. Pilates gives me strength, alignment, and structure. Together? They’re magic.

What’s Next: Mat Pilates CLasses w/ ALicia Christine!

I’m happy to share that I’ll be teaching Mat Pilates classes locally and you may see a few pop up events too! These classes are to support you as you use movement as medicine and a stress reliver.

Some classes will have props in the mix! These small group classes are designed especially for people who want to feel stronger, more confident, and reconnected to their bodies, no matter what they’re navigating on their health and wellness journey.  We’re moving with intention, getting bendy, toned and most importantly, we’re staying unbothered.

If you’re on my email list, you’ll get first dibs on booking these exclusive, healing, and energizing sessions.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic illness, stress, or just want a deeper connection with your body, Pilates can be a powerful place to begin again. And I’d be happy to move with you.

Register for a class here and make sure you're on my email list to stay in the know first.

Ok, love ya’ll. Later. XO

Alicia Christine

Certified Restorative Yoga Teacher | Mat Pilates Teacher | Myosister