Paddle into the remarkable world of Kamini Jain, an Olympic kayaker whose journey from shy teenager to Hall of Fame paddler reveals powerful lessons about perseverance, community, and finding strength on the water. Kamini's story begins with a quiet 14-year-old discovering kayaking – a perfect fit for her introverted nature that would eventually lead to Olympic finals, 11 World Cup medals, and induction into three different Halls of Fame. Kamini has a unique perspective, with her breadth of experience across multiple paddle disciplines. From sprint kayaking to dragon boating to outrigger canoes, she illuminates the technical foundations that connect these sports while celebrating their unique challenges. Her global coaching camps have shared this expertise with paddlers around the world, creating communities bonded by their love of water. Particularly moving is Kamini's work with breast cancer survivors through dragon boat programs. These initiatives provide not just physical benefits but crucial emotional support networks. "It brings them into an environment where people know about the treatment options, they know about how tired you are," she explains. This perspective gained even deeper meaning during her own five-year cancer journey, teaching her vulnerability alongside strength. The conversation concludes with a heartwarming tale about Choti, a street dog Kamini rescued in India who serendipitously ended up with host Susannah's family – a beautiful reminder of how unexpected connections enrich our lives, much like the communities formed through paddle sports. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or simply curious about how athletic pursuits shape character, this conversation will inspire you to find your own rhythm in life's currents. About Kamini Jain Kamini Jain is an Olympian and World Champion dragon boat and outrigger canoe coach and paddler, and the founder of Right Angle Performance, a paddle sport service company in Vancouver. Right Angle Performance delivers to teams, individuals and coaches technical, tactical and training education for dragon boat, outrigger canoe, surfski and kayak racing. Kamini sees sport as a way for people to expand their boundaries, live without limits, and gain empowerment by proving their physical strength and mental discipline. Her coaching objective is to encourage paddlers to set ambitious goals and provide them with the tools to perform their absolute best & fulfill their objectives. Right Angle Performance Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Have you ever considered that the way you stand and sit could be influencing everything from your aches and pains to your energy levels to your risk of chronic disease? Forget what you thought you knew about "standing up straight"—posture is far more dynamic and influential than most of us realize. I'm diving deep into our body's relationship with gravity and movement to reveal how posture acts as a continuous, adaptive process rather than a static position. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, seeking better athletic performance, or simply want more energy throughout your day, understanding posture as a dynamic system offers powerful insights for improving your health. Listen for practical strategies to enhance your body awareness and create balanced, efficient movement patterns that support your overall wellbeing. Your body has a story to tell—are you ready to listen? Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

In a world increasingly fraught with stress and anxiety, finding balance and peace can sometimes seem unattainable. This episode of the Heart of Motion podcast dives deep into the potent intersection of movement, mindfulness, and health, featuring expert insights from Siobhan O'Connell, a seasoned physiotherapist with 40+ years experience. We explore how chronic stress influences our overall health, shaping our bodies and minds in detrimental ways. Siobhan shares her journey of discovering the mind-body connection, revealing how integrating ancient wisdom from meditation with modern science can open pathways to healing that extend beyond traditional practices. Listeners will learn how meditation, often misconstrued as an esoteric pastime, plays a crucial role in counteracting the effects of stress while promoting overall well-being. Siobhan explains how mindfulness can revolutionize our understanding of healing and wellness, leading to transformative changes in the way we approach our health. The episode culminates in a guided meditation, offering listeners a tangible experience of the serenity that can be cultivated through such practices. Join us as we uncover the layers of our personal health narratives, highlighting that within us lies the capacity for self-healing and resilience. Whether you seek to understand the science behind stress or are curious about meditation's profound benefits, there's something here for everyone. Let's embark on this journey together and reclaim the joy of movement and connection in our lives. Join Siobhan O'Connell for a Meditation as Medicine workshop on Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 2 - 5 pm at Moving Spirit Pilates Studio in North Vancouver! Registration details below. Connect with Siobhan O'Connell www.meditationasmedicine.ca Instagram: @meditation.as.medicine Meditation as Medicine Workshop Saturday, March 15, 2025 2:00 - 5:00 pm Moving Spirit Pilates Studio #205-38 Fell Ave. North Vancouver, BC $65.00 + GST Click here for more info and to register Want to learn more? Siobhan recommends checking out the following resources: www.deepakchopra.com www.drjoedispenza.com www.drdivi.com Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Enhance your health through the power of breath, and discover how such a simple act can profoundly impact your physical and emotional well-being. Join me, Susannah Steers, as I guide you through the often-overlooked science of breathing, drawing insights from James Nestor's "Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art." Together, we'll navigate the intricate connections between breathing patterns and health. Learn about the role of the diaphragm in effective breathing, and how modern society's loss of fundamental breathing skills affects everything from posture to athletic performance. Whether you're into Pilates, fitness or sport or or whether you're someone curious about ways to improve your wellbeing, you'll gain valuable insights into how movement practices like Pilates, and deep nasal breath can help you live healthier and feel better. Some references for this episode: Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, ” James Nestor, Riverhead Books/Penguin Random House, USA, 2020 “ Spark: The Revolutionary Science of Exercise and the Brain ,” John J.Ratey, MD with Erik Hagerman, Little Brown and Company, Hachette Book Group. New York, NY 2008 “ Multidisciplinary Approaches to Breathing Pattern Disorders, ” Leon Chaitow, Dinah Bradley, Christopher Gilbert, Churchill Livingstone, 2002. Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Ever wondered how movement can transform not just your body, but your entire way of living? Join us as we welcome Tara Walsh, an expert horticulturalist and outdoor enthusiast, whose life story is a testament to the power of movement. From the physically demanding world of horticulture to her mountain biking and outdoor adventures, Tara’s journey highlights the incredible benefits of balancing high-level athletic training with mindful recovery practices. Her experience with Moving Spirit Pilates reshaped her approach to healing, teaching her the importance of listening to her body and embracing resilience. As we chat with Tara, we unravel the art of integrating self-care into rigorous training routines. It's a shift from the "no pain, no gain" mindset to a more sustainable approach that honors the body's need for recovery. Learn how everyday rituals and mindful practices, often overlooked in favor of more intense workouts, can be transformative. By acknowledging the body's interconnected nature, Tara helps us see the value in incorporating Pilates, yoga, and other mindful activities into our lives, ensuring we enjoy the sports and hobbies we love well into our later years. Our conversation expands beyond personal performance, revealing the profound significance of interconnectedness in our lives. By recognizing our bodies as holistic systems that mirror the natural world, Tara’s insights teach us to foster deeper connections with ourselves and our environment. We explore the necessity of staying present in a fast-paced technological era, and how embracing a holistic view can lead to more meaningful relationships and sustainable living. Let Tara’s story inspire you to integrate movement, presence, and connection into a life full of joy and purpose. Walsh & Co Gardens and Design Ltd. Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Uncover the truth behind society's fitness myths and why your daily workout might not be enough for holistic health. Join host Susannah Steers for this episode of the Heart of Motion podcast as we explore the profound difference between fitness and movement training. Our modern conveniences have created a movement deficit, often leaving us with chronic discomfort despite those frequent gym visits. Let's shift the spotlight from visible fitness markers like sculpted abs to a richer understanding of our body's capacity and language. Together, we'll redefine what it means to be truly fit, enhancing our mobility and quality of life, especially as we age. We'll also tackle how the decline in manual labor has changed our physical landscapes, and why exercise alone might fall short. Discover how practices like Pilates can transform your flexibility, strength, and body awareness, offering gains for both everyday life and athletic performance. Understand the importance of rehabilitating movement patterns at a pace that fosters learning and exploration. Plus, let's focus on nurturing healthy movement habits in children, who face the challenges of limited physical activity and premature sports specialization. Tune in for insights that promise a more active, vibrant, and connected life through intentional movement. Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

What if the key to transformation isn't about chasing resolutions but cultivating presence? As we embark on Season 2 of the Heart of Motion Podcast, I share how the power of presence and mindfulness can break the cycle of failed New Year's resolutions, bringing balance to our physical, emotional, and spiritual lives. By acknowledging where we stand at any given moment—be it energized or stressed—we can harmonize our actions with our true selves. Through personal stories and reflections, I highlight the profound impact that embracing presence has had on my journey, particularly in overcoming movement-related challenges. Discover how mindfulness and embodiment can reduce anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and enhance cognitive abilities. Join me on a journey of self-discovery that moves beyond rigid protocols toward a more creative, joyful approach to life and movement. By celebrating small wins, and making a consistent practice of tuning into our body's signals, we pave the way for authentic transformation. Presence isn't just a tool for athletes—it's a skill that can transform our daily lives, offering freedom, joy, and a deeper connection to ourselves and others. Let's explore how everything we need for transformation is already within us, waiting to be unlocked. Happy New Year, and here's to a more mindful and connected journey ahead. Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Picture this: you're on a treadmill, and suddenly, you trip—your body reacts instinctively, keeping you from hitting the ground. This episode of Heart of Motion unpacks how our bodies maintain balance, whether on a treadmill or in everyday life. I guide you through the fascinating world of balance, exploring the harmony between our vestibular, visual, sensory motor, and musculoskeletal systems. These intricate systems work together to ensure we stay upright, whether we're engaging in sports, or simply enjoying life to the fullest. Get ready to expand your understanding of proprioception, often dubbed our sixth sense, which allows us to sense our body's position without relying on sight. We'll dive into the critical roles of ligaments, tendons, muscles, and fascia, emphasizing their importance in maintaining stability and preventing injuries. Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

What if you could align your business strategies with your true self, creating a life that reflects your core values and desires? Join me as I sit down with the influential Donna Cravotta, founder of Cravotta Media Group and the Be Visible Club Mastermind, to uncover the magic of authentic marketing and connection. Discover how Donna's transformative journey toward authenticity has reshaped not only her business but also her personal life, allowing her to forge genuine relationships and enhance visibility through meaningful engagement rather than superficial tactics. Together, we explore the parallels between movement and marketing, championing the importance of listening to both clients and ourselves to foster connections that are as real as they are rewarding. Prioritizing authentic interactions over fleeting trends, we delve into making deliberate choices that resonate with our true selves, urging a focus on meaningful connections, and relationships that align with who we are, and how we want to show up in the world. About Donna Cravotta Donna Cravotta, CEO and Founder of Cravotta Media Group, is the creator of BeVisible.club, a mastermind community, and The Real 50 over 50: The Wisdom Revolution, a visibility project that showcases interviews and panels with over 100 remarkable 50+ women. With decades of experience in PR, marketing strategy, and online platform development, Donna identified a common issue among her clients: gaps in their stories that created gaps in their communications. Determined to help authors, speakers, and small businesses, she spent two years re-evaluating her 40-year career, listening to small businesses’ needs, and redesigning her approach. Today, Donna helps clients reconnect to their stories, blending proven strategies with innovative technology to find and engage their perfect audiences. Her clients find it empowering to see through a new lens and are poised for growth as they step into their purpose and become intentionally visible. Cravotta Media Group website The Real 50 After 50 ************************************************************************ Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Could understanding the body's reaction to stress be key to unlocking better health? This week we unpack the nuanced relationship between stress, movement, and health. You'll learn how stress, in measured doses, can actually bolster strength and resilience, yet when unchecked, it can detrimentally impact our well-being. Stress and movement are more intertwined than you might think, particularly when it comes to chronic stress and physical activity. This episode shines a light on how stress can disrupt our motor control and stability in unexpected ways. Discover how mindful movement, breath work, and other stress management techniques can counteract these effects and lead to improved stability and coordination. Embracing a holistic approach to stress management, we'll explore a comprehensive roadmap to building resilience against stress. Movement is a powerful ally in this journey, and by listening to your body and acting with compassion, you can effectively navigate stress's challenges. ******************** References: “ Sympathetic-induced changes in discharge rate and spike-triggered average twitch torque of low-threshold motor units in humans .” The Journal of Physiology, 586.22, pp 5561-5574, 2008(2) Silvestro Roatta, Dept. of Neuroscience, Physiology Section, University of Torino, Torino, Italy(3) Lars Arendt-Nielsen and Dario Farina, Centre for Sensory-Motor Interaction, Dept. of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark. Not referenced specifically here, but interesting and relevant research: A 2015 review by Macefield and Henderson in the Journal of Applied Physiology reinforced the idea that sympathetic activation can influence muscle function. They noted that sympathetic activation can affect both blood flow to muscles and the contractile properties of muscle fibers. A 2018 study by Hellyer et al. in the Journal of Neurophysiology found that sympathetic activation can modulate motor unit behavior, supporting Roatta, Arendt-Nielsen & Farina's findings about sympathetic effects on muscle activation. Research by Passatore and Roatta (2019) in the European Journal of Applied Physiology further explored how stress-related sympathetic activation affects skeletal muscle function, largely supporting the 2008 findings. A 2020 review by Boulton and Grubb in Experimental Physiology discussed how sympathetic activation can influence muscle afferent feedback, which indirectly supports the referenced study's conclusions about sympathetic effects on motor control. Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Learn about ways to balance a bustling career, family life, and a passion for fitness with our guest, Nicole Howell. As a North Shore mountain biker, mother, and employment law partner in Vancouver, Nicole brings a unique perspective to integrating movement into a jam-packed schedule. Nicole’s story is a testament to finding joy and presence in everyday motion and making time for what truly matters. Through her journey, you'll learn about the role of Pilates in maintaining structural health and balance amidst a demanding career. Discover practical insights on creating mental and physical space for growth and relaxation, avoiding the trap of filling every moment with activity. Nicole's commitment to mindful movement offers listeners a roadmap to a sustainable and fulfilling active lifestyle, blending strength and relaxation in harmonious synergy. About Nicole's work: HHBG Lawyers - Employment Justice Nicole Howell empowers employees and help them navigate challenging issues in the workplace (whether it’s a termination, allegations of misconduct, a contract negotiation, or unilateral changes to their job). https://hhbg.ca Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Unlock the secrets of true core strength! Join me as we challenge the widespread myth that a strong core is all about abs. In this episode, we redefine what it truly means to have a robust core by exploring the intricate dance between the deep inner unit core musculature (including the deep abdominal wall), and other systems in the body. Discover how this structure forms a dynamic cylinder that not only stabilizes your spine and pelvis but also plays a crucial role in posture and movement efficiency. The core is a pressure zone! We'll play with the metaphor of a water balloon to illuminate the fascinating pressure dynamics within the core. Finding the power of the core is a personal movement journey,; unique for everyone. It's all about starting from where you are and building gradually. Tune in, embrace your current abilities, and remember: seeking guidance when needed is a strength, not a weakness! Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

What if your body could tell you stories of resilience, healing, and a deeper mind-body connection? Join us as we explore the transformative power of somatics and movement integration with the exceptional Amy Kiara-Ruth. With a rich tapestry of expertise in dance, Pilates, kinesiology, and various somatic practices like Tai Chi and Qi Gong, Amy shares how these disciplines come together to foster a more vibrant and connected life. Discover how tuning into the felt sense of your body can enhance responsiveness and resilience, even in moments of discomfort. Amy and I dive into the intricate relationship between trauma and movement, highlighting how trauma can manifest through guarded postures, clenched muscles, and restricted breath. We discuss the nervous system’s responses and how chronic states affect our bodies. Amy shares how movement helps in metabolizing and processing trauma, promoting healing and neuroplasticity. Holding space is more than just a concept—it’s an art form. In our conversation, Amy underscores the importance of doing personal work to be fully present for others, drawing inspiration from traditional cultures and elder wisdom. Creativity and playfulness are highlighted as key elements in connection, leading to sessions that leave clients feeling strong, at ease, and authentically expressive. Amy Kiara Ruth Website Changepain Medical and Allied Health clinic Amy's online group medical visits are supervised by a physician and so are covered through MSP. A gentle Qigong movement class on Mondays at 11am and on Fridays at 11am in 2024. She offers two alternating series: Somatic Therapy, where we explore skills of interoception, breathing, seed movements and a Healing after Trauma series, where we explore the roles of the nervous system and body-based strategies to support more ease in the present moment. Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Join me as I reconnect with the extraordinary Julie Rothschild, a dancer, artist, and movement teacher whose journey through art and motion will leave you inspired. Julie takes us through her profound relationship with dance and how the pandemic led her to the intricate world of tapestry weaving, offering a new dimension to her creative expression and fulfilling her artistic yearnings in ways dance alone could not. Join us as we unpack the intricate dance between improvisation and structured techniques in movement and teaching. Julie and I share personal stories on how frameworks can guide yet not stifle spontaneity, enhancing the teaching experience. We discuss movement modalities like the Alexander Technique, and Pilates, their impact on our approach to movement, and how they helped us overcome our own physical challenges. Adaptability and continuous learning emerge as central themes in navigating both personal and professional landscapes. In our final segment, we explore the evolving nature of movement practices, especially as we age. We reflect on the importance of wisdom, shared experiences, and adapting our practices to maintain an active lifestyle. Correction!! In error, Julie mentioned an exhibit at the New Local. Please note that the gallery hosting the exhibit is instead the Low Rider. The opening of that exhibit is a private reception not open to the public. We apologize for any confusion that may have caused. Julie Rothschild Website Julie's Instagram And here's the link to the Michelle Obama podcast about menopause that Julie talked about. Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…

Ready to unlock the secrets behind true flexibility and joint health? Discover how understanding the interplay between muscles, bones, and soft tissues can transform your range of motion and overall mobility. On this episode of the Heart of Motion podcast, we tackle common complaints like tight hips, stiff backs, and sore necks by examining the crucial roles of ligaments, tendons, and fascia. You'll gain valuable insights into how these elements contribute to your body's stability and flexibility, and you'll learn practical tips for achieving a balanced state of functional flexibility. We dive deep into the importance of hydration and varied movement for maintaining fascia health, and how skeletal muscles and the nervous system work together to enable smooth, flexible movement. Plus, discover the profound link between physical exercise and cognitive health, and how embracing flexibility in both body and mind can lead to a more vibrant, connected life. Tune in to this episode and transform your approach to flexibility and joint health. Send us a text Heart of Motion Podcast host Susannah Steers is a Pilates & Integrated Movement Specialist and owner of Moving Spirit Pilates in North Vancouver, BC. She is passionate about movement, about connections and about life. Through movement teaching, speaking, and facilitating workshops, she supports people in creating movement practices that promote fitness from the inside out. She loves building community, and participating in multi-disciplinary collaborations. Along with her friend and colleague Gillian McCormick, Susannah also co-hosts The Small Conversations for a Better World podcast – an interview based podcast dedicated to promoting the kind of conversations about health that can spark positive change in individuals, families, communities and across the globe. Social Media Links: Moving Spirit Pilates Instagram Moving Spirit Pilates Facebook Susannah Steers Instagram…