Related Words

Spine: A thick, stiff hair or bristle.

Navel To Spine: The process of drawing your abdominal muscles up and in as you imagine your navel drawing toward your spine. This is an original cue that was used by Joseph Pilates. Performing navel to spin . . . View Full Definition

Neutral Spine: A balanced spine that maintains its natural curves. Pilates encourages you to identify and achieve your neutral spine. A misaligned spine causes compensating muscles to work too hard, which . . . View Full Definition

Nasal Spine: A median, sharp process formed by the forward elongation of the maxillae at the lower margin of the anterior aperture of the nose. Used to support a maxillary subperiosteal implant.

Spine Corrector: See Barrels.

Spine Frame: A motorcycle frame with a single main structural member from which the engine is suspended. Also known as a backbone frame.

Imprinting: A term in ethology referring to a process similar to rapid learning or behavioral patterning that occurs at critical points in very early stages of animal development. The extent to which im . . . View Full Definition

Marionette String: An image to encourage lengthening throughout your spine. Visualize a string extending from the crown of your head to the ceiling, suspending your entire spine along its length, from head to . . . View Full Definition

Barrels: The large and small Barrels used in the Pilates Method enhance breathing, develop both the arms and legs, and work the spine to help correct posture and movement. The barrels can be substitu . . . View Full Definition

Sitting Up Out Of Your Hips: An image to encourage length in the spine while seated. Initially, you may need to sit on a firm pillow to do this. Sending energy out of the top of your head and down through your pelvis wi . . . View Full Definition