How do you remain centered when teaching Pilates? Do you feel negatively impacted by clients' moods? What are some techniques to stay grounded in overwhelming moments?

In Season 6 Episode 3 of our podcast, "Creating Space while Teaching," we dive into the essential practice of self-care for Pilates instructors. We've previously discussed setting boundaries with clients regarding business practices, but this episode focuses on maintaining personal boundaries during a session, especially when faced with challenging moments or difficult clients.

Creating space while teaching Pilates protects the teacher's energy and empowers clients.

As teachers, we strive to create a supportive environment for our clients. However, it's easy to absorb their moods, stress, and attitudes, impacting our own well-being and the quality of our teaching. How do we balance empathy with self-preservation, ensuring we can continue teaching for years to come?

Many Pilates instructors are naturally empathetic and highly sensitive. This allows us to deeply connect with our clients' needs. The challenge, however, is the risk of absorbing their emotional baggage, leading to burnout and resentment. We must develop techniques to separate ourselves while remaining supportive.

Pilates Elder Kathy Grant famously advised students and clients to "leave their baggage outside the studio." This simple act serves two purposes: protecting the teacher from overwhelm and allowing the client to center themselves before the session. A moment of calm and grounding benefits both teacher and client, setting the stage for a productive and positive experience. Remember, clients may bring their issues to the studio, but it's not our job to solve them.

Maintaining a positive and focused mindset is crucial. By framing our language and actions positively, we guide the client towards a more productive headspace, which in turn reinforces our own. This requires taking control of the session in a positive way.

Taking control doesn't mean being dictatorial. It means confidently leading the session, preventing the client from inadvertently taking over. This might involve subtly redirecting the conversation, ignoring negativity, or simply focusing on the work at hand. It's about establishing a "bubble" around yourself, protecting your energy.

Sometimes, a client's behavior is simply a bid for attention. By recognizing this, we can choose how to respond, effectively guiding them towards a more constructive focus. Negativity is natural, but we can't allow it to derail our teaching or our well-being. Grounding practices become essential in preventing these interactions from accumulating and impacting us.

Over time, these skills become easier to implement. Experience teaches us how to navigate different personalities and situations. When we set a positive and supportive tone, we can often shift a client's anxiety or negative thoughts without them even realizing it.

Taking control of the session is vital because clients may come in with doubts, misunderstandings, or resistance to change. As Pilates teachers, we must stay grounded in our own expertise and teaching style. Trying to mold ourselves to every client's whim leads to burnout and anxiety. We can accommodate clients when appropriate, but our own grounding and space are paramount.

Sometimes, you'll encounter a client who consistently resists your attempts to create space. It's like repeatedly hitting a brick wall. In these situations, it's okay to walk away. You're not doing yourself or the client any favors by forcing the pairing. There are other teachers who may be a better fit.

Protecting your space is essential, and the constant influx of information and opinions in the Pilates world can sometimes shake your confidence. Don't let it! Take a breath, trust your training, and own your teaching style. This self-mastery builds confidence, allowing you to become increasingly adept at creating space, not just in your teaching, but in all aspects of life.

Your clients will benefit from your grounded presence and the sense of autonomy you provide. It can be daunting at first, but remember that by creating space for yourself, you're taking back control. Even if the client is anxious, unsure, or in a bad mood, your centeredness will positively influence their experience and protect your own.

Being present, focused, and grounded is key. It allows for positive and inspiring interactions, fostering growth for both you and your clients.