Say hello to our new columnist Karen Eccles

Hello, my name is Karen Eccles, founder of Pilates From Within Studio, Pilates expert with teaching experience for over a decade, and specialising in classical Pilates. I am a wellbeing ambassador supporting and empowering men and women to take ownership of their health and wellbeing. I offer a wellness portfolio that includes Classical Pilates, Energy and Sound Healing, both in person from my studio in Surrey, and online.

I have been teaching Pilates for over a decade, originally Contemporary trained I now specialise in Classical Pilates since being introduced to it in 2012. I am continually seeking out the best training opportunities available to me with the most authentic and experienced teachers. I understand and value personal development, self practice and the impact this has on you within a professional capacity.

My belief is that we should lead and live by example, so I demonstrate the importance of prioritising selfcare and self-development with the intention of motivating others to do the same. I eagerly share my knowledge and experience at every opportunity, teaching and guiding with enthusiasm and integrity.

I do not simply teach Pilates, I show clients how to understand their bodies and nurture body awareness so that they feel in control of their health and wellness. This I believe to be the most important aspect of what I offer as it not only impacts their physical health but also mental and spiritual wellbeing.

Through personal experience and observing others over the years, I have developed an innate understanding of the impact that life circumstances and events, mindset and their connected emotions have on our physical body. This awareness has led me to working with Energy and Sound Healing that compliment and work in alignment with Pilates. My unique understanding and blend of these three practices alleviate physical symptoms, reset emotions and bring equilibrium and a sense of wellbeing.

Even before I was consciously aware of my healing abilities, the natural laws of attraction led me to meet and befriend some very talented holistic therapists and healers. From each one I learned something valuable that led me to where I am today and beyond.  Supporting others and sharing our experience and knowledge is how we learn and grow as individuals and as a community. This is what shapes me and drives me to better myself and help others do the same.

On a more personal note, I am a mother of two boys aged 21 and 16, they are my world and will always be my greatest achievement. I am fiercely proud of the caring and kind young men that they are and there is nothing that makes me happier than to be their Mum.

I am lover of nature, I am continually in awe of the beauty that we are surrounded by and feel so at peace in any natural environment, whether it be on the common, the beach or a pine forest. Whatever the weather you will find me out walking or running. It is my go to mind reset and grounding ritual.

My love of sound and movement extends further than Pilates and the Tibetan Bowls which I play for the Sound Healing. I love how music has an ability to trigger memories, emotions and take you on journeys. Since I was a little girl, I have loved to dance, never professionally purely for enjoyment. ‘Dance like nobody is watching’ is one of my life mantras and do so at any given opportunity. Dance is a form of movement and of expressing yourself, and movement is a powerful healer, try it and see for yourself!

I love to cook too, often with the music blasting from the kitchen, but only really get the chance to be creative and try out new recipes at the weekend. Due to my busy weekly schedule of teaching, healing, writing, and business admin, I try not to make too many plans at the weekend, favouring going with the flow, but include catching up with friends as much as possible.

Over the coming months I will be exploring and sharing with you my areas of expertise that includes Pilates and other forms of movement, Energy and Sound Healing, mental health and wellbeing topics such as mindfulness, positivity and many more.

I will look forward to sharing my experiences and views with you.

Karen will be writing a regular column for The UK Newspaper starting from next week.