What influence does Pilates have on the autonomic nervous system?

that Pilates is known for strengthening and shaping our body you have surely heard several times or already had the opportunity to experience it yourself.

Perhaps you have already noticed that through regular training the muscles have become stronger, flexibility has increased and posture has changed.

But did you know that Pilates also has a very positive influence on our autonomic nervous system?

What is the autonomic nervous system?
The autonomic nervous system, also known as the autonomic nervous system, is responsible for the automatic regulation of bodily functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure and respiration. The autonomic nervous system (VNS) is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which have opposite effects on bodily functions.

Overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, which triggers the "fight-or-flight" response, can lead to an increased stress response and thus a variety of mental and physical ailments. The parasympathetic NS puts you into "rest & digest" mode.

Therefore, it is important to find a balance of activity between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.

Pilates, breathing exercises, various relaxation techniques are a very effective way to reduce stress and help restore the balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system, thus improving mental fitness.

Why does Pilates in particular have such a positive effect on the VNS?
Through the controlled and precise movements we perform in Pilates, we learn to guide our breathing and synchronize it with the movement. This can help regulate our cardiovascular system and relax our body.

By focusing on breathing and movement, we learn to shield ourselves from outside distractions and focus on ourselves. This helps us feel more relaxed and balanced.

In today's LIVE program we focus on loosening and releasing tension, especially in the body regions of the neck and chest. Deepen our perception by consciously closing our eyes during individual exercise sequences. At the end we will do a meditation, which will accompany you relaxed into the evening.

Our agenda for this Pilates class:

Part 1: Warm up
Specific neck and shoulder exercises (approx. 10 minutes)

Part 2: Workout (approx. 30 minutes)
Focus strengthening and invigoration by promoting depth sensitivity

Part 3: Cooldown (approx. 10 minutes)
Vagus Nerve Meditation

Here is my recommendation, what you should always have ready for training:

• Training mat
• Towel
• A small cushion
• Yoga blocks
• Massage ball
• Flex tape

Preparation for the Pilates lesson:

• Ventilate the room before training.
• Prepare a cup of tea.
• Create a positive atmosphere in the room - e.g. candle, good scent, fine background music.
• Move cell phone, laptop, TV out of sight, hearing and reach.