Let’s talk about one of the most essential – and often overlooked – aspects of a healthy lifestyle: sleep.
Quality sleep is something many of us struggle with, whether due to physical challenges like asthma, COPD, or sleep apnea, or mental stressors such as work pressure, anxiety, or chronic stress. Even something as routine as daylight savings time can throw off our sleep rhythm. Whatever the cause, one thing is clear: a restful night’s sleep is becoming harder to achieve.
But what if we told you that the way you breathe during Pilates could be your secret weapon to better sleep, reduced stress, and improved strength?
The Power of Pilates Breathing
Pilates is often praised for its ability to tone your core, but its true magic lies in its holistic approach to movement and breath. Built on six core principles – breath work, concentration, centering, control, precision, and flow – Pilates is more than just exercise. It’s a mind-body practice designed to help you move better, feel better, and, yes, sleep better.
One of the foundational components of Pilates is intentional breathing. This mindful breathwork not only activates your core but also strengthens the muscles responsible for healthy respiration, including the diaphragm, obliques, transverse abdominis, and pelvic floor. These muscles help expand the sides of your rib cage, giving your lungs more space to function efficiently. The result? Improved oxygen flow, better nervous system regulation, and a deeper, more restorative sleep.
Breath, Posture, Balance — It’s All Connected
The beauty of Pilates is how it transforms your breath into a tool for total-body wellness. With consistent practice, you’ll begin to notice a range of benefits: improved posture, increased body awareness, stronger balance and stability, reduced stress levels, and enhanced sleep quality.
And the best part? You’re not adding anything extra to your to-do list. You’re simply learning to do something you already do – breathe – in a more functional and mindful way. As we often remind our clients: simple doesn’t mean easy. But with regular practice, it becomes second nature.
How We Practice Breathwork in Class
At our studio, every instructor is trained to incorporate functional breathwork into your Pilates sessions. You’ll receive guidance on when to inhale, when to exhale, and how to use supportive props like foam rollers or bands to enhance your awareness. These tools help you feel the effects of breath—not just mentally, but physically, too.
It’s important to remember that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to breathing techniques. What works for one person might not work for another—and that’s completely okay. We’re here to help you discover the rhythm and techniques that feel right for you.
Final Thoughts
More and more research is confirming what we see in our clients every day: Pilates, and the breathwork it incorporates, is a powerful tool, not just for strength and mobility, but for managing stress and improving sleep. Whether you’re coping with a respiratory condition, adjusting to a new season of life, or simply feeling off due to a time change, know there’s a gentle, empowering practice that can help you feel like yourself again.
Want to learn more about how breathwork can support your specific needs? Talk to your instructor during your next class—we’re here to support you, one breath at a time.