Sitting-Rising Test: Challenge Yourself with a Game
The sitting-rising test has been widely accepted as a way to predict mortality risk in the elderly. The test developed in the 1990s asks subjects to rise from the floor using as little support as possible. Points are deducted every
Dismantling Racism- “Perfectionism”
The reFORM staff has been examining how racism, Whiteness, and supremacy live in ourselves, our bodies, and our work. Part of that effort has been to slowly examine how we embody, experience, and uphold characteristics of White supremacy culture. We are
In Person Pilates and Gyrotonic in Portland- Pandemic Protocol
Pilates in a mask? Yes. Although we've lost business in the last year due to state shutdowns, we are grateful that the conscientiousness in our community has protected our staff and clients. Thank you Portland, Oregon! As of February 2021, reFORM offers
Online Pilates Best Practices
We're coming up on a year of teaching Pilates and Gyrotonic on Zoom, and we're grateful for this technology and your support of our studio as we go through this rough patch together. "Life saving" is the feedback we're hearing
Alexander Technique – Practicing Joy
I read this Mary Oliver poem eight weeks into COVID isolation and it struck me. I'm noticing that I suddenly and unexpectedly feel depression, and frustration, and every once in a while suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy. I love the
Acupuncture in the Time of COVID-19
As we enter into month three of shelter-in-place in the wake of COVID-19, many patients are missing their acupuncture visits. Although it seems as though the virus has taken over so many aspects of our lives, it turns out that
Online Pilates Teachers Part 2
From reFORM instructor Ash: It goes without saying that since quarantine started our day-to-day lives have significantly changed. I was already accustomed to the idea of being home a lot with my toddler and working a second job from the comfort
Alexander Technique and Mental Health
reFORM's resident Alexander Technique teacher Lyra Butler-Denman discusses how Alexander Technique works with psychological and emotional patterns. Alexander Technique is the study of accessing the innate resources of our body. While it is not therapy in the conventional sense, it touches and helps create change
Is Membership for Me?
reFORM Membership If you want to use reFORM services twice per week or more, membership probably makes sense for you. Because membership includes discounts on equipment sessions, Alexander Technique, massage and workshops, two visits per week will more than offset the
What Is the Solar Plexus?
The solar plexus, or celiac plexus, is the name given to the network of nerves near the stomach. “Celiac” comes from the Greek word for “belly” and “plexus” means “braid” in Latin. In addition to this nerve hub, it