Spring to Life Journal
Breathe deep. Live fully. Spring to life.
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Benefits of Classical Pilates: How It Transformed My Teaching Journey
Despite the shortcomings of my chosen teacher training, I was not about to give up. Healing and feeling strong was too important to me, so I put in the work, even traveling to other studios where I knew there were solid teachers to observe and learn from them... Once I began teaching classes, I realized how lost I actually was... Add to that the fact that I was STILL experiencing tension migraines regularly and had not experienced a marked improvement in my pain or strength levels... This was what I had been searching for all this time! Jennie could see that I was craving more when she offered me an opportunity to become her mentee, and I jumped at the opportunity... I finally was beginning to understand what exactly Pilates was and how to teach it.
Pilates at Home Exercises for Beginners: Start Your Routine Today
Discover effective Pilates at home exercises for beginners with this guide. The beauty of mat Pilates is that anyone can start on their own at home, just as Joseph Pilates intended in his 1945 book Return to Life Through Contrology. It outlines 34 exercises to strengthen mind and body. Learn where to begin, essential equipment like a simple mat or props (hand towel, Theraband, magic circle), tips for focusing on form to avoid injury and maximize benefits, and how to build a consistent routine—starting with 2-4 sessions per week. Access free beginner courses to enhance posture, reduce pain, and boost overall well-being. Start your routine today!
10 Signs This Pilates Retreat is for You
Discover the ultimate classical Pilates retreat in Tulum, Mexico, from May 23-29, 2026, at Paamul on the Mayan Riviera. Hosted by Caitlin Sullivan, this wellness escape blends daily mat classes, afternoon workshops, and adventures like snorkeling with whale sharks. Whether you're a Pilates enthusiast seeking to advance your practice, build an independent routine, or simply recharge from burnout, these 10 signs will help you decide if it's your perfect getaway. Enjoy beachfront luxury, personalized meals, massages, and new friendships—all while deepening your love for classical Pilates. Return transformed with a balanced mind, body, and spirit. Limited spots available—book your Pilates vacation today!
Finding the Right Pilates Classes Near Me
Pilates has been trending for the last few years, and for good reason—it's a versatile workout that builds strength, flexibility, and body awareness. However, this popularity has led to a surge of unqualified instructors and studios jumping on the bandwagon, often with little real knowledge of the method. This has muddied the waters in the Pilates industry, making it tough for newcomers to spot a quality studio amid the sea of "reformer-based fitness" options that may not truly align with authentic Pilates principles.
Off Meds, Off Restrictions, and Officially in Remission
After six rounds of chemo for Large B-cell lymphoma, I finally heard the words I waited months for: remission. Clear scans, no more heart meds, and a body that’s moving again—achy joints and all. Here’s what getting my life back really looks like.
Eat for Ovulation: The Real Key to Balanced Hormones & Zero PMS
Your body’s #1 monthly goal? Ovulation. Feed it right and you get effortless progesterone, zero PMS, and easy periods. Here are the best foods for healthy estrogen, strong ovulation, and happy luteal phases — plus easy seed cycling, tea, and supplement tips.
Cycle Syncing Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Cycle syncing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Discover how to align your workouts, meals, social life, and productivity with your hormonal phases — or use the moon if your cycle is missing or suppressed. Includes the 2-phase, 3-phase, and 4-phase breakdowns plus practical tips for every body.
The Truth About Pilates: Why It’s More Accessible Than You Think
Discover why Pilates is more affordable than you think! Learn the truth about reformer Pilates and how to practice authentic Pilates anywhere.
What is a Pilates Purist? Discover Classical Pilates
A Pilates Purist embraces the authentic, accessible essence of classical Pilates, as envisioned by Joseph Pilates. Discover how this transformative practice can empower you.
Your Sex Drive on the Pill: How Hormonal Birth Control Can Affect Desire
If you’ve noticed a drop in your sex drive while on hormonal birth control, you’re not alone. The pill can affect libido, hormone balance, and vaginal health, making sex less pleasurable or even painful. Learn how to support your gut, hormones, and sexual health while exploring non-hormonal options to reclaim desire.
Your Mental Health on the Pill: The Hidden Connection
Hormonal birth control can do more than just regulate your cycle—it can also impact your gut health in ways you may not expect. From bloating and indigestion to changes in your microbiome, “the pill” often disrupts digestion and nutrient absorption. In this post, we’ll explore the science behind how birth control affects your gut, common symptoms women experience, and natural ways to support digestion as you transition off hormonal contraceptives.
Your Gut on the Pill: How Hormonal Birth Control Impacts Digestion, Hormones, and Overall Health
Are your digestive symptoms, skin rashes, or PMS really “just part of being a woman”—or could your birth control be the culprit? Hormonal contraceptives have a profound effect on your gut microbiome, the ecosystem that regulates digestion, immunity, and hormone balance. Over time, the pill can deplete essential nutrients, increase inflammation, and even contribute to conditions like IBS, anxiety, or PCOS.
The good news? You can take simple, natural steps to support your gut and ease symptoms—even if you’re not ready to stop birth control. In this post, we’ll explore how the pill impacts your gut health and share practical ways to nourish your microbiome, replenish nutrients, and protect your hormones.
The Origins and Dangers of Hormonal Birth Control
Hormonal birth control has been hailed as a medical breakthrough, but its history is more complicated—and concerning—than most women realize. From questionable testing practices to long-term health consequences like nutrient depletion, mood changes, and lowered libido, the pill’s legacy comes with serious red flags. In this article, we explore where the pill came from, the risks tied to its use, and how women can protect their health with informed choices.
Finding Home in My Body: How Pilates Supported Me Through Lymphoma Recovery
During my lymphoma treatment, Pilates became more than exercise—it became a lifeline. From hospital bed to home studio, here’s how mindful movement guided my recovery.
Estrogen Detox: The Key to Easing PMS Naturally
Struggling with PMS or heavy cycles? Often the root cause is estrogen that isn’t being cleared properly. In this post, I’ll show you how supporting your liver, gut, and daily habits can help your body detox estrogen naturally—so you can feel energized, balanced, and free of monthly symptoms.
Progesterone: The Hormone That Can Save Your Cycle
Progesterone is the calming yin to estrogen’s yang—and without enough of it, PMS, heavy periods, anxiety, and restless nights can take over your cycle. In this post, you’ll learn why progesterone is so essential, how to spot the signs of low progesterone, and natural ways to boost it through food, lifestyle, and supplements for a calmer, more balanced cycle.
Ovulation: The Main Event of Your Cycle
Most people think their period is the star of the menstrual cycle—but the real main event is ovulation. Without it, your body can’t produce progesterone, the calming hormone that keeps PMS in check. In this post, you’ll learn why ovulation matters, how to spot the signs, and natural ways to support it with food, lifestyle, and supplements.
Reducing Inflammation: The Hidden Key to Hormone Balance
Chronic inflammation is at the root of PMS, fatigue, and hormone imbalances. The good news? By avoiding certain foods and making simple swaps, you can reduce inflammation, balance your hormones, and feel more energized. In this post, we’ll break down the top inflammatory culprits and what to eat instead.
Life After Chemotherapy: My PET Scan Results, Recovery, and Renewal
The last two chemotherapy cycles pushed me to my limits—fatigue, hair loss, and the emotional weight of waiting for answers. After six long weeks, my PET scan finally arrived. While not the “cancer free” verdict I had been hoping for, the results were still a powerful reminder of how far I’ve come. From a mass that once filled the right side of my chest to a small scar-tissue remnant, my oncologist assured me: no more chemo. Today, I feel stronger, healthier, and ready to step back into life with renewed perspective.
My Journey to Healthier Skin: The Transformative Power of Collagen
As I recently entered the third year of my third decade, I’ve found myself reflecting on how much my priorities have evolved over the past five years, particularly since embarking on my holistic health and hormone healing journey. One of the most significant changes I’ve noticed is how I approach skincare. In my twenties, I struggled with severe cystic acne, a battle rooted in hormonal imbalances, environmental toxins, poor gut health, and low self-esteem. The painful cysts on my chin, jawline, and neck were a constant source of frustration and self-consciousness. I became obsessed with finding the elusive cure-all that would finally clear my skin.