23. Strengthen Your Core with Pilates and Dance Instructor Heather Craig
Heather Craig
Pilates & Dance Instructor
The Joy of Movement
Pilates and dance instructor Heather Craig trained at the Royal Academy of Dance and The Rambert School, and she’s co-founder of Moving Stories Dance Company. Heather is an experienced pilates instructor and also teaches adult ballet. And you’re in for a treat. This episode is a bit more interactive. You’ll have a chance to do some lovely stretching as Heather guides you through a seated pilates session. It’s the perfect way to gently get your body moving.
Heather's Links
Inspiration
Benefits of Pilates
I wouldn’t say to anyone: ‘Just do pilates – that’s going to get you fit.’ Because it won’t. But it works as a beautiful supplement and integral part of your exercise regime because you’re strengthening from the inside out effectively.
Just Move
It doesn’t need to be complicated.
Like Heather, you can start your day with a 10-minute mini pilates routine.Listen to the full episode to hear Heather’s mini seated pilates session. Relax as she gently coaxes you through some lovely stretches.
Heather’s favourite pilates exercise is the pelvic bridge/pelvic tilt:
The reason I like that exercise is because it’s not loaded flection, so therefore it’s pretty safe for everyone’s spines. But also what it does, it provides a little bit of traction. So if you’ve been standing for a long period of time, then what it does is just gives some lovely space between those vertebrae.
Once a day you need to get out. Even if it’s only a short walk (15/20 minutes), just get out and get that space. Go and see what’s going on around you. Get that air.
Cultivate Other Interests
Whether you’re training in dance or music – any creative (or non-creative) thing, have a backup plan. Cultivate other interests. Think: what would I do if I couldn’t carry on with what I’m doing now? Future-proof your career. So, if something like a worldwide pandemic comes along (or if robots make your current job redundant), you’ll be prepared. Be curious and explore new avenues.
Keep a few things in the pipeline. Have your Plan B’s and your Plan C’s just in case, because you never know, do you, what’s round the corner.
Style Notes
Thank goodness for athleisure. Or loungewear. Or “pyjamas/fitness” as Heather calls it.
Top Tip: Sweaty Betty and Lululemon are fantastic places to find stylish sportswear or loungewear or everyday wear, depending on your personal style vibe.
Oh my goodness. My favourite leggings are from Lululemon and the material they’ve used, it’s like skin. It’s just really unusual. I am a particular fan of quite funky leggings. That is my clothing accessory.
About ALSO in PINK
Welcome to the ALSO in PINK podcast with host Alexandria Lawrence, a certified KonMari consultant, personal stylist and specialist in biophilic interior design.
ALSO in PINK offers candid conversations with industry leaders and influencers, clients and friends, about what it means to live well.
The podcast is currently paused... but we'll be back! In the meantime, you have nearly 50 episodes to enjoy. Happy listening...
Podcast Host
Alexandria Lawrence is passionate about helping you dare to dream big and intentionally live your best life every day.
