Pilates is always a hot topic in the health and wellness world. It has a rich history, and the variations of this exercise method are as diverse as the people who practice them. But at the heart of Pilates lies a set of fundamental principles that guide every movement: centering, concentration, control, precision, breath, and flow. It was my pleasure to invite Pilates coach Shari Berkowitz to the show this week to help us understand our bodies' biomechanics and completely transform our outdated thoughts on the aging body.  Shari Berkowitz is a Pilates teacher of teachers and scientist with over 30 years of experience specializing in Pilates biomechanics and ergonomics. She is the CEO of the Vertical Workshop, a Pilates teacher training program, and her unique way of teaching Pilates crosses all boundaries by combining science and movement. From her own personal injury that she sustained in her 20s, leading to partial paralysis, Shari shares her experience with Pilates and how it improved her balance, posture, and motor control. She shares her fascinating learning journey, punctuated with famous teachers, traumatic experiences, and the gradual development of her understanding of Pilates.  Shari also explains to us the concept of Biotensegrity - recognizing the human body as an organism rather than a mechanism. She sets aside the oversimplified, traditional understanding of the musculoskeletal system and provides us with a more accurate framework. This contemporary scientific understanding helps us reimagine the capabilities of the aging body. She encourages us to assimilate this new information to change the way we think and behave toward our aging bodies.    Click here to listen! How to reach Shari: WEBSITE FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM Rating, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts Heike’s insights on the Pursue Your Spark are so helpful in creating a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle”! ← If that sounds like you, consider rating and reviewing my show here! This helps me support more empty-nester moms 50+ – just like you – redefining their second half of life. Click here, scroll to the bottom, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode!  There is always something new on the feed, and if you’re not following, there’s a chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!  Links mentioned in the show: Fasted + Fit Over 50 Jump Start Shari’s Pilates Teacher Blog