About Pilates:
Pilates is a total body conditioning method, developed in the early 20th century by Joseph H. Pilates. This exercise system focuses on the 'core', while integrating each movement with one's breath, thus creating greater connection between the mind and body. Pilates targets the smaller, intrinsic muscles, encouraging greater functionality and uniformity in the body. The movements aim to decompress and lengthen the spine while toning the muscles in the body, leading to a leaner, longer physique. Movements are low impact and focus on form and alignment, making it a safe and effective method for all ages and body types.
Contemporary Pilates:
By definition contemporary is defined as current, present and/or modern. Molly uses the anatomical concept of 'neutral spine' in her work (a key component to contemporary Pilates) knowing that proper alignment allows the rest of the body to move with more ease and fluidity through every day activities while helping to reduce stress. Neutral spine Pilates is based on the latest understanding and research in biomechanics and facscia awareness and can reduce suffering of chronic pain, and help reshape and restore the body to its most optimal and pain-free state.
Molly may also incorporate soft tissue mobilization, and muscle release using both massage balls/domes and/or foam rolling to enhance the efficacy of each session. Among the many health benefits of bodywork, are an enhanced immune system, a decrease in resting heart rate, and an increase in blood flow and serotonin levels. Light bodywork can also promote a deeper level of relaxation and healing, help reduce stress and help improve, circulation and muscle mobility.
Prenatal and Postpartum Pilates:
Pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum recovery can feel overwhelming and can be a complex and emotional experience. Molly is passionate about supporting woman through all stages of pregnancy and postpartum recovery both physically and emotionally. She is certified in both prenatal and postpartum Pilates and has guided and supported many woman though the emotional journey of childbirth and beyond.
Pre-natal Pilates is perfectly suited to preparing women for labor. Gentile exercise during pregnancy has been shown to reduce discomfort, ease the challenges of labor and shorten postpartum recovery time.
Postnatal Pilates is designed to help you regain strength in your pelvic floor and deep postural muscles and aid you in regaining your pre-pregnancy strength and energy.
Molly incorporates the latest science with a therapeutic, holistic approach to each prenatal and postpartum Pilates session, and will guide you through pregnancy specific exercises to help you stay toned, stretched and centered during your pregnancy and beyond. Doctor's approval required.
“With my first pregnancy, I suffered a six finger diastasis. Through breath work and small, detailed movements, Molly helped me restore my core function, eliminate my back pain and heal my diastasis. Molly was pivotal in not only the healing process but in educating me about pregnancy safe exercises and how to avoid another diastasis. I went on to have a healthy, second pregnancy with no major, postpartum issues.
-S.L.- Prenatal/postpartum client”
Pilates for Children and Adolescents:
Molly has many years of experience working with children and adolescents in variety of settings. Her knowledge of childhood development, movement therapy, Pilates and yoga combined with her expertise in anatomy and biomechanics makes her an expert in the field of therapeutic movement for children.
Working to enhance mind-body awareness and core integration is beneficial to people of all ages, but incorporating these fundamental skills at an early age can provide life-long benefits. Many children find that increasing core strength and body awareness can have a calming affect, and help them to better self-regulate.
Whether your child is a struggling with self-regulation, anxiety, depression or working to improve their overall health and wellness, Mindful movement Pilates can help increase, body-mind cohesion and awareness, self-regulatory skills, proprioception, strength and self-esteem for children of all ages .
“Molly Jaffe’s method of teaching is truly unique. Her knowledge of the body and the way she incorporates emotional support and stress relief has been transformational. I started seeing Molly to address an old back injury. After just a few sessions, I noticed that I was, for the first time, pain free. Noticeable changes in my body and overall wellbeing quickly followed. Every detail of my experience working with Molly is positive, and has had a huge impact on they way I feel both mentally and physically.
–Mary R.-Client”
“The demands of my job, was taking a toll on my overall health; and I started suffering from chronic neck and low back pain, which prevented me from doing the things I loved, such as playing golf and spending time with my kids. Within just a few sessions, Molly had found the root cause of my pain and muscular dysfunction. She was able to diagnose the problem and gently and effectively help me restore my body and overall health.
- Henry M.-Client”