Many people turn to fitness to achieve a healthier lifestyle. Some do it to lose weight, while others do it to stay healthy. Whichever way you lean, you need to understand that doing it in moderation can have benefits. But pushing your body too hard can have adverse effects. Renowned Pilates instructor Namrata Purohit Shining a light on mindful fitness.
Namrata Purohit stands out as a pioneer in India for her work in popularizing Pilates in the country. Contrary to popular belief, this low-impact, high-intensity form of exercise emphasizes strength, flexibility and mindful movement, promoting a balanced and sustainable approach to fitness. Despite Pilates’ growing popularity, certain aspects remain under-researched in India. Purohit sees pre- and post-natal Pilates as an area with great potential. “It’s a great way to train during pregnancy and after birth, but awareness is still low,” she says. She also highlights the benefits of Pilates for athletes, including improved fitness, injury prevention and recovery. While more cricketers and Olympians are incorporating Pilates into their routines, there is still room for further popularization.
Changing attitudes towards fitness
Looking back over her career, Purohit has noticed a major shift in how people perceive fitness. “The biggest change I’ve seen is the change in how people think about fitness,” she points out. “People are now more interested in understanding their bodies and doing what’s right for them, rather than following trends and fads.” This shift has meant a greater awareness of health and mindfulness, a trend that’s accelerating in the post-pandemic era.
As an approach to fitness, Purohit emphasizes the importance of consistency over frequently changing workout routines. She advocates building muscle memory and stability by repeatedly practicing certain movements, a key aspect of mindful fitness. In contrast to intense, repetition-based workouts, such exercises focus on controlled movements and activating the right muscle groups, hence the name mindful fitness. Additionally, she advises individuals to be true to their fitness journey and not compare themselves to others, including celebrities. “It’s important to understand your body and not compare it to other people’s bodies and journeys,” she asserts. For those with busy schedules, Purohit recommends a comprehensive 15-minute workout, emphasizing that even short, regular sessions can be very effective forms of mindful fitness.
A balanced perspective on nutrition
But Purohit’s holistic approach to mindful fitness doesn’t stop there. For her, her attempt to assimilate the concept also extends to mindful nutrition. She stresses the importance of eating good for your body and maintaining a healthy relationship with food. To reap the benefits of mindful fitness, her balanced perspective on food and exercise encourages a sustainable, mindful approach to health.
Through her dedication and expertise, Namrata Purohit continues to inspire people to live healthier, more mindful lives. Her approach to Pilates and fitness emphasizes the importance of balance, consistency, and individualized care in achieving holistic wellness and is convinced that mindful fitness is the way of the future.
