Teacher Appreciation Week

Many of you know that my daughter teaches at an elementary school. Last week was Teacher Appreciation Week at her school. Like many teachers, she received small gifts and goodies from her students as a token of their appreciation for all she does. Teachers are truly amazing! They give so freely of themselves – their time, energy, kindness, patience, dedication, creativity, love and so much more. They should be showered with appreciation on a daily basis, not just one week a year.

Thinking about teacher appreciation reminds me of how grateful I am to the many teachers who have had an impact on me throughout my Pilates journey. Please indulge me for a few minutes while I express my vast appreciation and gratitude to them. Without them, I would not be where I am today, or who I am today.

To my very first Pilates instructors, including Ann, Brentan, Vicki, & Tom: I came to Pilates knowing nothing about it, and considered myself strong, athletic, and knowledgeable about working out. Looking back, I realize I must have been a difficult student! I thought I knew how to do everything, and probably didn’t take correction very well. You, however, were patient and consistent and eventually the light bulbs started to go off. That’s when I realized I really knew nothing, at which point I was ready to learn. I appreciate all of you for sticking with me and trusting that the method would work its magic on me.

There were many teachers who helped me become a Pilates instructor. To our tireless Peak Pilates Master Instructor, Nancy: Thank you for your vast knowledge, your gift of inspiration, your patience, and just the right mixture of challenge and support for each person who goes through your teach training program. Instilling confidence, demanding excellence, and being so passionate about the method, you made my journey to certification one of the most satisfying and fulfilling experiences of my life. You are a treasure! To Amy B.: thank you for your expert training, attention to detail, and emotional support, without which I would not have successfully completed my certification. And to the many instructors and students that I observed and practiced with: thank you for being a part of my journey. I learned something from each and every one of you, almost a much as I learned from the formal curriculum. Tapping into your background, knowledge, and intuition was a force multiplier to my learning. Your continuing support makes me so happy to be a part of this caring community of people passionate about changing lives through movement.

To the instructors who have continued my education – Wendy, Marcos, Mariska, Rebekkah, and others: The more I learn, the more I realize how little I know. I appreciate the collective wisdom and am in awe of the vast expertise I have access to through continuing education opportunities.

Last but certainly not least, to the Zenergy instructors- Tessa, Cindy, Lyndsey, Angie, Andrea, Chelsea, Jenny & Zoe (plus all the former instructors): I appreciate you more that I can possibly express! Not only are you passionate about Pilates and improving our clients’ well-being, you are professional, kind, and caring, and it shows through everything you do. Thank you for always being willing to do what’s needed for our studio and our clients - and for me! I appreciate the way you fill the studio with joy and laughter, and your curiosity, creativity, and dedication. Extra gratitude to Tessa: for not only teaching me so much when I observed your classes during my teacher training, but also for all you taught me about running the studio. I am extremely grateful to all of you.

Whether you’re new to Pilates or a seasoned practitioner, I trust that you appreciate your instructors, too. Like many teachers, the time they spend in the studio with you is a small portion of what they pour into their jobs. They spend countless hours planning sessions, researching specific exercises for different body situations, and growing their skill set through continuing education. They are focused on giving you the best possible experience and improving your movement patterns to enhance your life. It it a true labor of love. When you get a chance, let them know how much you appreciate them!