Awaken to Motion

The end of an era for many, and the start of something new for me and Awaken to Motion. I bought this business a year ago with the promise of doing something a little different… the clients that have transitioned with me have been wonderful and supportive. I look forward to where we ultimately land and in the meantime, I look forward to my “commute” 🤭

When you blame the non-sticky socks for your inability to pike on the chair 😂

We don’t all have access to a reformer; however, this video shows you how to target those hard-to-reach lower abs with a mat and your own body weight.
Ready to tackle your core in new ways? Join us on Mondays at 7 am HST | 9 am PST for a FREE 30-min Level 1 Pilates Mat Class. Join via the website (link in bio) or DM directly to get the Zoom link.
P.S. No need to share your video on Zoom (and when you sign up, you get a link to a video to access at any time). Sign up now, what do you have to lose - more like what will you gain, in core strength 👏

&Lower

😂🐾 Pilates with a Pup!
Trying to focus on core work—Toe Taps + Chest Lifts—when your dog decides it’s playtime? Classic!
I’m over here engaging my deep abdominals, keeping perfect form… and suddenly there’s a tail in my face and a nose on my mat.

Talk about extra resistance training and a built-in cheerleader! 🐶💪
Even with a few giggles and distractions, the work still counts—core engaged, breath steady, joy level: maxed out.
Because Pilates isn’t just about precision—it’s about having fun and staying present (even when your pup wants to join the workout).

Trying to focus on core work—Toe Taps + Chest Lifts—when your dog decides it’s playtime? Classic!
I’m over here engaging my deep abdominals, keeping perfect form… and suddenly there’s a tail in my face and a nose on my mat.

Talk about extra resistance training and a built-in cheerleader! 🐶💪
Even with a few giggles and distractions, the work still counts—core engaged, breath steady, joy level: maxed out.
Because Pilates isn’t just about precision—it’s about having fun and staying present (even when your pup wants to join the workout).

💪 Pilates Core Progression: From Toe Taps to Double & Straight Leg Lifts
Mastering Toe Taps lays the foundation for deeper core strength and control—but the real magic happens when you start to progress the movement! Here’s how to safely advance your practice:
🌿 1️⃣ Toe Taps (Beginner)
Lie in tabletop. Lower one leg at a time to tap the mat, keeping your pelvis stable and core engaged.
→ Focus: Deep abdominal activation + pelvic stability.
🔥 2️⃣ Double Toe Taps (Intermediate)
From tabletop, lower both legs together, keeping your ribs anchored and abs drawing in.
→ Focus: Greater core challenge + coordination.
⚡️ 3️⃣ Straight Leg Lift & Lower (Advanced)
Extend both legs toward the ceiling. Inhale to lower the legs with control; exhale to lift them back up, maintaining a neutral spine.
→ Focus: Deep core strength, hip flexor control, and spinal stability.
💡 Tips for Success:
Move slowly—control is everything.
Keep your back glued to the mat (no arching!).
Only lower as far as you can maintain form.
Progress gradually and feel your core intelligence grow with each phase. 🌟

🔥 Pilates Move Spotlight: TOE TAPS 🔥
Toe Taps are a deceptively simple core exercise that strengthen your deep abdominals (hello, transverse abdominis!) and train stability in your lower back and pelvis. They’re a staple in Pilates mat work—and for good reason!
✨ How to Do Them:
1️⃣ Lie on your back with knees bent to 90° and shins parallel to the floor (tabletop position).
2️⃣ Engage your core—imagine zipping your belly button gently toward your spine.
3️⃣ Keeping your pelvis steady, lower one foot to tap the mat, then return to tabletop.
4️⃣ Alternate legs with control, maintaining your breath and neutral spine.
💡 Pro Tips:
Move slowly—this is about control, not speed.

Keep your ribs anchored and abs engaged.

To make it harder, lower both legs together or extend the legs longer.

✅ Benefits:
Strengthens deep core muscles

Improves pelvic stability

Enhances mind-body connection

Perfect as a warm-up, finisher, or anytime you want to reconnect with your core!

Want a guided toe tap experience in a friendly environment? Join me on Zoom - just 2 more free sessions in Dec - Monday's at 7am HST | 9 am PST. Message "Dec" to join or sign up at http://awakentomotion.com (link in bio).

Sometimes we all need a little help. Here is a quick modification, if your core isn't quite as strong as to do Toe Taps without an assist.

Want a guided toe tap experience in a friendly environment? Join me on Zoom - just 2 more free sessions in Dec - Monday's at 7am HST | 9 am PST. Message "Dec" to join or sign up at http://awakentomotion.com (link in bio).