Pilates & ADHD – by Laura Browning Grant
Background
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was first classified in the 1920’s and was believed to be caused by a brain injury suffered at an early age. Though this theory has since been disproved, my personal research, observation and interaction with others suffering from ADHD reveals a common thread … a significant fall during early childhood. Today, many people believe ADD and ADHD are not true disorders and dismiss the symptoms. Although not completely understood, research indicates that the actual cause of these disorders is likely a chemical imbalance in the body. This imbalance causes the brain of those with ADHD to process things slower than those with a “normal” (non-ADHD) brain. As a result, the brain can be overstimulated by the world around it causing the individual to become overwhelmed. For example, think of two things you need to accomplish today. Now think of two things you would like to accomplish by the end of 2016. For someone without ADHD, those two different classifications on the ”to do” list can be distinguished. However, for an individual with ADHD, they both seem to have equal importance causing an overload effect in the brain.
How can Pilates be used in the treatment of ADHD symptoms?
Research has shown that exercise is an effective management tool in the treatment of ADHD. The chemical imbalance in an individual with ADHD reduces that person’s ability to focus and connect. Exercise alone is beneficial, but control of ADHD symptoms can only be achieved by changing the chemical balance in the body and increasing the individual’s ability to connect mind and body. Joseph Pilates observed this need soon after ADHD was recognized as a disorder. In Return to Life, he observed that society seems to be focusing solely on furthering the mind while neglecting the development of the body. Pilates understood that the well-being of an individual could only be achieved by engaging both mind and body.
Pilates incorporates three key components that have proven to reduce ADHD symptoms: coordination, complex movements, and coherent breathing. When performed correctly, Pilates movements engage all three components proven to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. Joseph Pilates developed the movements in his program to strengthen and rehabilitate both the mind and the body.
What results can Pilates produce for people with ADHD?
Pilates is believed to help individuals with ADHD symptoms in three distinct ways:
- When performing the movements, the increase of blood flow releases compounds in the brain that allows the brain to operate with increased efficiency.
- The complexity of Pilates movements and the coordination required to perform these movements stimulates formation of new connections between neurons in the brain, thus improving the brain’s ability to function.
- The Pilates breathing technique stabilizes the autonomic nervous system and delivers increased oxygen to the body improving the brain’s ability to function.
Although most forms of exercise can improve ADHD symptoms, a Pilates-based approach provides all three components required for optimum benefits. When used as part of a holistic ADHD treatment regimen, Pilates can improve an individual’s ability to focus, thereby reducing ADHD symptoms, and overall quality of life.
Conclusion
As an ADHD sufferer, I was excited to discover the Pilates Method when I was just 15 years old. Practicing Pilates provided the mind/body connection missing in my life. I quickly developed a passion for the Method and have continued to use it as a way to manage my symptoms. When researching and developing my Pilates & ADHD course, I experienced many “Aha!” moments. As a result, I became passionately dedicated to sharing what I had learned with others.
The Pilates Method has stood the test of time and, in my eyes, Joseph Pilates was a genius who truly understood the human body internally, externally, and emotionally. I am honored to share my Pilates & ADHD course with others and look forward to not only helping those with ADHD, but anyone suffering from issues of focus, connection and overstimulation of our hectic world.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, nor is it a substitute for medical advice. You should consult a physician regarding medical diagnosis or treatment.
Laura has a quick smile, tons of energy and a real passion for life. Her passion for Pilates is infectious and has touched the lives of her clients over the last twelve years. Laura received her Pilates certification from the Pilates Certification Center in 2003 and became a PMA-CPT in 2008. Her enthusiasm for life and knowledge has led her to completion of eleven Pilates specialty courses and, most recently, completion of Lolita San Miguel Pilates Master Mentor Program. As a result, Laura is now recognized as a Second Generation Pilates Instructor and Lolita Disciple Educator. In 2008, Laura also completed her Gyrotonic certification and is recognized as a certified Gyrotonic Level 1 instructor. A giver and not a taker, Laura has chosen to share her love of Pilates by developing and teaching four Pilates Fine Tuning PMA-CEC Workshops—Reformer, Cadillac, Barrel/Spine Corrector and Wunda Chair and PMA-CEC Workshop Pilates for the Athlete. Also, she has developed and teaches a PMA continuing education course addressing Pilates & ADHD after recognizing the role Pilates can play in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. In 2015, Laura was a presenter at the Pilates Heritage Congress in Germany and a contributor to Pilates Bridge. Laura has been featured in Pilates Style Magazine and graced the July/August 2015 cover. Laura was owner of Centered Align Your Life in North Carolina before moving to San Diego in 2009. She taught Pilates in San Diego and Los Angeles for five years and returned to North Carolina in 2015 and opened LaurabPilates studio in two Raleigh locations. In 2013, Laura launched her website, laurabpilates.com, for the purpose of sharing her passion of The Pilates Method with others. Even though she currently teaches in North Carolina, Laura remains committed to the clients she has taught and the instructors she has certified in all parts of the country. You can always count on Laura to remain genuine, loyal, trustworthy and passionate in any situation.