Welcome to the new PM Center For Movement website!
A few years ago, I changed the name of the studio I founded in late 2004 from “Park Meadows Pilates & Physical Therapy” to “Park Meadows Center for Movement.” The name change reflected the evolution of my thinking that a specific method (like Pilates) has all the answers, to a focus on whole, healthy, active, joyful movement for life.
The new name also contained a deeper meaning for me because I relate to movement as coming from the center of my being. I wasn’t just thinking about a physical center or studio when I chose the name, but more profoundly about what truly motivates movement in all of us.
As it turned out, this was a very supportive way for me to relate to the name of my business. As you may know, we closed the physical studio in 2020 after almost 16 years in operation, and for a time I experienced a heavy sense of loss. After some contemplation, I realized nothing is lost in this transition from operating from a studio to being in a virtual studio. This new environment offers unlimited possibilities that are reflected in the name “Center for Movement.”
So this year, that exploration of movement continues virtually, and eventually, once we can all be together in person again, in periodic workshops and retreats as well.
I know, there’s still a PM in the name, which no longer refers to Park Meadows…I’ll get to that bit shortly, keep reading!
Think For A Moment About Where Movement Comes From
For our ancestors, movement was necessary for survival—for food, shelter, and safety. No one had to tell our ancestors to get to the gym or take a walk. They didn’t have to invest in fancy equipment, designer workout gear or trainers. Movement was a part of everyday life. For them, if you didn’t move, you didn’t live.
In our modern culture, movement is no longer an imperative. Heck, we could theoretically stay on our couch and work, shop, eat and sleep without ever having to get up – with the exception of taking care of personal hygiene and bathroom needs!
I think a lot about what moves me. As I get older, it’s even more important to keep moving, because it’s my intention to die young at a ripe old age, and that means continuing to identify and expand the internal motivators that keep me active and vibrant.
So, how can you connect to your personal “center for movement”? You might find some of the questions I ask myself helpful:
- What moves me to move?
- What’s the personal meaning in the activities and movements I choose?
- How do I feel inside when I’m doing the things I enjoy?
- What movements and activities bring me joy, fun and fulfillment?
- Where am I most inspired and what can I do to train my body to take me there?
Take a few minutes to ponder these questions for yourself, or come up with your own prompts. Include all the movement activities you do throughout the day that you might not consider “exercise”. Getting up and down from a chair is a movement activity. Lifting grocery bags is a movement activity. Getting down on the floor to play with your grandkids is a movement activity. So are walking your dog, gardening, or dancing.
Now, about the “PM” part of the name. I’m keeping it. For me it stands for “Personal Meaning”.
What about you? The PM initials are like a “choose your own adventure” part of your movement story. The initials can express whatever you choose, and I’d love to hear what you come up with, so feel free to share your ideas with me!
If movement is something you choose to integrate into your life consistently, take some time to explore what gives you meaning and motivates you. Connect to your unique “Center for Movement”. Then come along on the journey as we explore what moves us, together.