Navigating Grief: The Art of Holding Space for Ourselves and Others
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

Navigating Grief: The Art of Holding Space for Ourselves and Others

Though Grief is a universal experience, it is often regarded as a solitary journey. Greiving is a reminder of love, loss, and the human condition. Yet, expressing and processing grief can feel profoundly isolating. Whether we are grappling with the death of a loved one, or supporting someone through their own loss, understanding the nature of grief can help navigate these challenging waters with intention and empathy.

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In Focus: The Shoulder Girdle, Part 3:   Strength and Stability Exercises
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

In Focus: The Shoulder Girdle, Part 3: Strength and Stability Exercises

Welcome back to my “In Focus” series! Whether you are an athlete, or someone who spends long hours at a desk, or somewhere in between, strengthening your shoulder girdle can enhance your overall posture, increase your functional strength, and reduce the risk of injury. In our previous posts, we explored the anatomy of the shoulder girdle, and the importance of scapular stability for injury prevention. Today, in the third and final post of this series, we will look at four effective exercises (as well as their Pilates reformer alternatives) to strengthen and stabilize the shoulder girdle.

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In Focus: The Shoulder Girdle, Part 2: Scapular Engagement and Preventing Injury
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

In Focus: The Shoulder Girdle, Part 2: Scapular Engagement and Preventing Injury

Welcome back to our series on the shoulder girdle! In Part One, we explored the anatomy of this vital structure that connects our upper limbs to the body, laying the groundwork for our understanding of its function. In Part Two, we will concentrate on the engaged shoulder girdle and its pivotal rollin preventing injury, particularly in the context of Pilates.

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In Focus: The Shoulder Girdle, Part 1: Understanding the Anatomy
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

In Focus: The Shoulder Girdle, Part 1: Understanding the Anatomy

The shoulder girdle plays a critical role in our ability to move, lift, and engage in various physical activities. For those practicing Pilates or any movement discipline, understanding the shoulder girdle’s anatomy and mechanics is essential for optimizing performance and preventing injury. In this three part series, we’ll explore the anatomy of the shoulder girdle, the significance of scapular engagement in Pilates, and also look at five exercises to strengthen these muscles. This information can be used to help deepen your practice and enhance your body awareness.

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Embracing the Darkness: Musings on Hope and Connection for the Winter Solstice
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

Embracing the Darkness: Musings on Hope and Connection for the Winter Solstice

Apricity (n) the warmth of the sun in winter.

Two days ago, we celebrated the solstice—marking the shortest day of the year, and looking towards a time when the sun makes its grand return. I wanted to have this written and posted then, but I was too busy hustling and grinding. Exhausted to the bone. For right now, the cold dark has settled in deeply. My brain feels sluggish, almost frozen, much like the winter wonderland outside my window. As I sit here trying to write, I’m reminded of the many layers that accompany us in these dark days of winter.

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5 Ways Craniosacral Therapy Can Enhance Your Pilates Practice
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

5 Ways Craniosacral Therapy Can Enhance Your Pilates Practice

Pilates is a dynamic exercise method known for improving strength, flexibility, and body awareness, However, when combined with complementary practices like craniosacral therapy (CST), the benefits can be magnified, allowing individuals to experience deeper releases and enhancements in their physical practice.  In this blog post, we’ll explore fie ways craniosacral therapy can enhance your Pilates practice, focusing on flexibility, posture, and relaxation.


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Understanding Craniosacral Therapy: A Gentle Approach to Healing
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

Understanding Craniosacral Therapy: A Gentle Approach to Healing

In a world that often feels fast paced and overwhelming, finding effective methods for healing and self care is crucial.  One such method that has gained significant recognition is craniosacral therapy (CST).  This gentle, non-invasive technique offers a unique approach to health and wellness by focusing on the rhythmic motion of the craniosacral system—an intricate network of membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.  In this blog post, we’ll explore the principles of craniosacral therapy and its vast benefits for both physical and emotional well-being.


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How Craniosacral Therapy Supports the Dying Process
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

How Craniosacral Therapy Supports the Dying Process

In a society that often shies away from discussions surrounding death and dying, finding compassionate support systems for those experiencing this profound transition is essential.  Craniosacral therapy (CST) emerges as a gentle, holistic approach that can provide significant comfort and assistance both to individuals nearing the end of life and to their loved ones.  In this blog post, we will explore how craniosacral therapy supports the dying process and offers insights into finding peace during this sacred journey.

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Embracing Life’s Final Journey: Understanding Death Doula Work
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

Embracing Life’s Final Journey: Understanding Death Doula Work

A death doula, also known as an end-of-life doula, is a trained professional who provides emotional, informational, and physical support to individuals who are nearing the end-of-life transition. In a culture that often shows death out the back door, the role of a death doula emerges as a compassionate and vital support system during one of life’s most profound transitions.  Death doulas play an essential role in guiding individuals and their families through the end-of-life experience with dignity, love, and understanding.  In this blog post, we’ll explore what death doulas do, the philosophy behind their work, and how they support both the dying and their loved ones.

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The Connection Between Mind and Body: Pilates for Holistic Wellness
Lisa Spencer Lisa Spencer

The Connection Between Mind and Body: Pilates for Holistic Wellness

In our fast-paced lives, we often view health solely through the lens of physical fitness.  We prioritize workouts, calorie counting, and visible results while overlooking the deeper connection between our minds and bodies.  Enter Pilates—a practice that not only strengthens and tones but also creates a balance between the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of wellness.  In this blog post, we’ll explore how Pilates promotes holistic wellness by fostering not just physical strength, but also mental clarity and emotional balance.

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