At Pure Pilates, our teachers don’t just teach Pilates, we live it. This Love Story Series is a collection of personal reflections from our team, sharing how each instructor first fell in love with Pilates, the exercises that continue to inspire them, and the self-care rituals that support their practice both inside and outside the studio. Together, these stories offer a glimpse into the passion, intention, and care that shape every session at Pure Pilates
I first discovered Pilates when both of my children were in preschool. Life felt full and busy, and that once-a-week hour quickly became my time,a small but meaningful pocket in the week where I could quiet my mind, move my body with intention, and slowly build strength.
The focus required in each movement pulled me fully into the moment. My thoughts didn’t have room to wander, and I left every session feeling refreshed, grounded, and calm,even though I had worked hard. For the first time, exercise wasn’t something I pushed myself through because I knew I “should.” It was something I genuinely looked forward to.
When we later relocated to New Jersey, Pilates fell away for a while as we settled into a new home and community. During that transition, my husband, Jim, encouraged me to return to it. He found Pure Pilates and surprised me by purchasing my first four sessions, a small gesture that ended up changing so much. What began as a return to something familiar quickly became a deeper commitment, and many years later, I’m still here.
It was at Pure Pilates that my journey evolved from student to teacher, with Carol guiding and supporting me every step of the way. Pilates has been a constant in my life for over 20 years now, and my love for it has only grown stronger. What began as an hour of self-care has become both a passion and a purpose. Today, I feel incredibly grateful that I get to share that love of Pilates with my clients, helping them find the same strength, focus, and sense of calm that first drew me in all those years ago.
A Simple February Self-Care Practice
Take 5–10 minutes each evening to gently stretch and release your body before bed. Using a foam roller, therapy ball, or foot roller can help ease tight muscles, improve circulation, and signal your nervous system that it’s time to unwind. Move slowly, breathe deeply, and focus on any areas that feel especially tense,your feet, hips, and upper back are great places to start. Consistent evening release can support better sleep and help you feel more refreshed in the morning.
We’ve recently added the Naboso Neuro Ball to the studio, and it’s quickly become a favorite for foot release and nervous system reset. Its textured surface is designed to stimulate the sensory receptors in the feet, helping to release tension, improve mobility, and support recovery. Use it to roll through the arches, balls of the feet, and heels,or split it into two domes to work both feet at once. It’s a simple, effective tool that pairs perfectly with an evening wind-down or post-session care.
My Favorite Pilates Exercise: Side Sit-Ups
If you know me, you know I love side sit-ups and I can already hear the collective groan. I love the feeling of lengthening through the entire side of my body, reaching my head away from my feet, and then finding the lift. That sense of strength, control, and spaciousness in my body is exactly what made me fall in love with Pilates.
