Turning a negative into a positive

Outside of the studio looks like a war zone. And the last two days the excavation, scraping and bull-dozing machines have been right outside the front door, making the building rattle and vibrate as if there were bombs going off. Today in particular, there was no safe way to access the studio, and one client did brave the giant work zone to come for her session.

Immediately following her, I have another session scheduled. After spraying down the equipment and doing a mental overview of the lesson plan, I waited. After 5 minutes, I started stretching using the Wunda Chair which is aligned so that I can see out the front door, and be ready to welcome clients into the studio all the while keeping the equipment clean and ready to go! After 9 minutes I began to have my doubts and continued my workout while moving to the Cadillac, but still standing just in case the client came in super-late. I finally gave up and abandoned myself to a well needed session.

I don't always make time for myself, and because I practice martial arts, I do not feel that my body and body/mind connection gets neglected. However, the work of Pilates on the equipment brings about unique sensations that cannot be found elsewhere and really does put the body back in balance. During my training and apprenticeship I had to do the requisite hours of self-practice. I understand the purpose for beginning teachers. But, after 20 years I can say that keeping up a practice that is longer than 30 minutes, is really important. Each time I revisit the classical repertory or I create exercises for specific populations I am reminded of how amazing the work is and how great one feels afterwards.

So this is why I turned my situation of my client not showing up into something positive.