Happy 5th Birthday to Mypilatesflow!
Steventon Studio
Apparently 50% of small start up Business’s fail within the first 5 years so I count myself as one of the extremely lucky ones to still be here and thriving!
A big thank you as always to all of my loyal and committed Subscribers who continue to show up every week to class. Your enthusiasm for all that Pilates has to offer acts as a huge motivator to me to strive to give of my best each session!
This month I’d like to give a shout out to two clients who have been with me right from the very beginning.
Firstly, I would like to thank one very special lady who will forever be etched on my mind- Julia one of my lovely Wednesday morning ladies.
Five years ago this month- Julia responded to my advert on Facebook to join my first Pilates Class at the Didcot Civic Hall. Receiving her email - my first ever response was like winning the lottery! I cannot put into the words the elation that I felt- someone was interested and wanted to join the group!
I’d made a huge leap of faith - quitting my day time teaching job after 23 years in the class room to start the Business and Julia unknowingly gave me the confidence that it was possible to start a new chapter! To this day Julia is still with Mypilatesflow- 5 years on. Her strength and progression with this form of exercise has been fantastic to witness. She always gives 100% and I absolutely love her positive attitude within the class!
Lovely Julia x
What drew Julia to Mypilatesflow…
Following a very difficult period of health issues, I found myself bedridden for 80% of the time for 12 weeks. This resulted me in loosing muscle mass in my legs particularly my quads. After consulting my Doctor I was advised that I needed to start some exercise classes and Pilates was discussed as being a good option.
I came across an advert for Mypilatesflow as Sam was starting her new business. I contacted her and explained the situation, I was really worried that I wouldn't be able to do what was needed but Sam offered me loads of care and encouragement. She was very patient in those early days; I really feel that without her care and encouragement I wouldn't have continued as it was really hard for me. At the beginning I could hardly get upstairs. I was soon able to get up stairs like I had always been able to.
Having experienced what chronic ill health can cause, I was determined that I would do everything I could to stop me from being in the same position again. At times I have to take time away due to health issues, but I am always determined to return to the sessions as soon as I can.
I have now become more experienced, and during the 5 years there has been a small group that has continued, and we have become a community in itself, led by Sam, we socialise together, and try to support each other when life throws up the curved balls.
Julia (client)
Secondly, I’d like to tell you about Emma who has also been with me since the start! Emma’s dedication to Pilates is amazing and I can literally count on one hand missed sessions during this time- fantastic commitment! Her skills are honed to Advanced level from starting as a Beginner- I’m one very proud Instructor of her efforts. Here’s what she has to say:
I have been attending Pilates with Sam each week for the past five years and I would highly recommend ‘My Pilates Flow’ to anyone that asks! Sam is very knowledgeable about everything that she does and has a kind and caring personality, that is warm to anyone that attends her class.
Since working with Sam I have increased my core strength, flexibility and balance as well as improving my mental wellbeing.
She always plans each lesson carefully and ensures that each sequence can be adapted to all abilities. Every week I leave Sam’s class feeling relaxed and well stretched! Thank you Sam for your hard work and I can’t wait for the next five years!
Emma (Group Class Subscriber)
Celebrating 5 years
Our Festive Social
Thank you to everyone for the incredibly quick turn around with getting the deposits in for 13th December. The table is now secured. I’ll be in touch with those signed up regarding the menu selections when prompted by Wildwood! Looking forward to spending time with you all!
So still a while away but need to update those that are considering taking up one of the remaining 3 places. As you will be aware with the ‘just add’ way I’ve designed the Retreat, there is a SPA DAY option on the Sunday. If you would like to do this part of the package then I’ll be sorting out treatment times with the hotel at the end of this month. If however, you wish to attend and use the pool, sauna, jacuzzi and steam room only then there is no rush to book your place. I hope this makes sense- just want to be transparent with what I’ll be able to offer from November onwards…
For more details please visit my website.
Class Update
Monday Beginner Course at 6:30pm - December 1 space
Tuesday 121 classes- Fully Booked
Tuesday Evening Didcot Civic Hall- Fully Booked
Wednesday Morning Didcot Civic Hall- Fully Booked
Wednesday Evening at Fleet Meadow - 1 space
Thursday Morning at Sunningwell Village Hall - 3 spaces
Just to note there won’t be a class on 31st October at Sunningwell due to the venue being out of action.
Thursday Early Evening at All Saints in Didcot - 3 spaces
Thursday Evening Reformer classes - currently fully booked
No classes in the first week of November- Subscriptions will be on pause.
Closing this month’s post as always with a listening recommendation.
This episode by Ed Mylett really made me take stock - when did I last have a real belly laugh? Ed discusses here the Power of Laughter and how it can significantly enhance the quality of your life.
The Health Benefits of a good laugh can relieve tension, reduce stress hormones, and even increase your lifespan.
Enjoy!