Through Sunflower Wellness, I am honored and fortunate to teach Pilates to a lovely bunch of women affected by cancer, whether they are currently fighting the disease or coming out victorious on the other side. Each week, the inspiring women of this particular group gather at Bay Club Marin for two Pilates reformer classes under my instruction—and it’s often the best part of my week.
One day, one of my participants told our class that she was feeling a bit down. So (as any woman might do) she went and bought herself some new workout clothes. Not just any workout clothes—some fun, bright-colored, patterned leggings! And right after telling us this, she went on to say that even though she was not skinny or tall, the leggings made her feel awesome.
Back up! Who said you have to be a model to wear this new trend in workout gear? Why would they make these tights in all sizes and lengths if not for all women to wear and enjoy them? Truth be told, there is no better way to camouflage any little imperfections—yes, we all have them—than to draw the eye to a fun, bright pattern. What a brilliant idea! The new motto in fitness wear is, “the bolder the better” and ladies, go ahead and wear what makes you happy. Wear what makes you feel good! Embrace this fun new trend of wild sneakers and colorful tights. With my 5’2” frame, I get more compliments when I wear my horizontal-striped tights than when I wear anything else, and I’m sure you will too.
And in an attempt to curb the negative self-talk, I leave you with a thought to put into practice. We now start each of my classes with a positive affirmation. We go around the room, and we all say something positive. From our best physical feature to our favorite personality trait, we choose something to be grateful for each day we are together. I know it makes me happy to share with and learn from this group of women, and hopefully help squash some of that negative self-talk, if only for the hour. I encourage you to get in the habit of saying something nice to yourself everyday. Oh, and don’t’ forget to rock those tights!