If you are planning to revise your current exercise regime or indeed, start a new one, you may want to consider adding Pilates to the program. Due to many hours sitting at a desk or perhaps long periods of inactivity and little or no exercise, our core becomes weak and ineffectual.

Having a strong and healthy body is important and developing the core muscles will ensure that you are less likely to experience back injuries as the strengthened abdominal muscles will work to support this area.

The Pilates system was initially founded by Joseph Pilates and this whole complete method of exercise ensures that the body becomes lean and strong without gaining bulk to the muscles.

Pilates is quite a graceful system and consists of flowing movements with a focus on breathing and of course, importantly, the correct alignment for each position. Ideally, it is wise to attend a class so that the teacher can ensure that you obtain the correct position for each exercise. For those who would like to trial Pilates at home first, there are many good DVD's dedicated to this exercise system which will give you a great insight into the types of exercises and also the benefits.

Some benefits include:

• Leaner body
• Increased confidence
• Strong abdominals
• Strong back muscles
• Increased focus

For additional health and harmony, also include the following:

Yoga

Yoga is another excellent exercise program which helps to connect mind, body and spirit. It can work alongside Pilates very well and the individual postures help to improve posture, tone and flexibility.

Meditation

Meditation will help you to connect with deep feelings of intense inner peace. The simple techniques can be easily incorporated into your daily lifestyle and works wonderfully with yoga and Pilates.

Diet

Ensure that a healthy diet is followed and that the relevant nutrients are obtained as this will help to increase your health and fuel the body in preparation for the exercise plan.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy compliments a holistic lifestyle beautifully and with the essential oils having their own individual therapeutic properties can help with massaging conditioned muscles, assists for meditation as well as providing a sense of peace through inhaling the fragrances using an oil burner.