Somatic Education and Mind-Body Disciplines: Exploring the Effects of the Pilates Method on Life Satisfaction, Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

Abstract

This study was aimed at exploring the potential of the Pilates Method of somatic education as a tool for enhancing factors influencing wellbeing. Specifically, the study focused on investigating whether Pilates Method mat-based and equipment practices affects mindfulness, self-compassion and life satisfaction among adults. A total of 129 adults (16 men and 113 women) participated in this study. Participants completed the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, Self-Compassion Scale and Satisfaction with Life Scale, and provided additional information regarding the frequency of participation in Pilates practices and demographics. Correlation analysis indicated strong relationships between variables. One-way multivariate analysis of variance was used to determine differences in mindfulness, self-compassion and life satisfaction, and revealed significant differences between Pilates subgroups. Bonferroni post hoc tests showed that participants who practiced Pilates as many as five times per week scored higher than those participating once or twice. Regression analyses indicated that mindfulness and self-compassion were good predictors of life satisfaction. Pilates positively correlated with factors that enhance positive psychology processes and wellbeing. The major finding was that Pilates practitioners can enter into a different relationship with bodily movement, transcending the physical body, fitness and exercise techniques. Further empirical research is required to explore how the Pilates Method shapes somatic experiences. Implications of the Pilates technique as a somatic and mind-body method in physical and dance education are presented.
 
 Received: 11 April 2022 / Accepted: 26 June 2022 / Published: 5 July 2022

Transversus Abdominis Ultrasound Thickness during Popular Trunk–Pilates Exercises in Young and Middle-Aged Women

“…First, our results suggest that exercises that are part of Pilates programs are effective in activating the TrA during various movements. This is important because previous studies have shown that such exercises can improve core stability and function [ 12 ], reduce low back pain [ 41 ], and enhance quality of life [ 10 ] in different populations. Therefore, Pilates programs including such exercises may be beneficial for individuals who want to improve their core health and performance.…”

“…Pilates is a popular exercise method developed by Joseph Pilates with its own philosophy and basic principles. The roots of Pilates come from ancient Greek and Eastern philosophy about mind body and spirit connection [ 10 , 11 ]. Today Pilates is divided into two types, the classic and the modern or contemporary, with many differences between them [ 11 ].…”