Sponsored: More than movement

Health Advice with Sarah Brown, Embody Studio

EMBODY Studio is a contemporary Reformer Pilates studio owned by director Sarah Brown. EMBODY offers more than movement, their focus is total wellbeing: both body and mind. This month, Sarah shares her expert advice on staying balanced with your health and wellbeing. “At EMBODY Studio, we offer more than movement. We’re here to support your whole wellbeing – because true health isn’t just about the body. Our offerings include Reformer Pilates, Red Light Therapy and Breathwork. Balance your nervous system and create ‘head space’. Whether you're here to move, restore, or connect – we’re here for all of you.”

My personal philosophy on health and wellbeing:

I believe true health is a state of alignment between mind, body, and soul. It’s not about chasing perfection, but about nurturing a way of life that feels expansive, energising, and deeply connected. To me, wellbeing means eating in a way that supports my energy, moving to shift my mood and honour my body, and making conscious choices every day that uplift me. I’m actively creating space for health, healing, joy, and rest. Health is a journey of self-awareness, not self-punishment. It’s about tuning in, not controlling – conscious choices over rigid rules.

Simple daily practices for vibrant living:

· Start the day with presence – take five minutes to do deep breathing, meditation, or journaling to ground and align. Even three deep, intentional breaths can shift your whole state. Open the curtains, let the light in and put on some music that lifts you.

· Move your body daily – Do 20-30 minutes (more if you can) of movement that feels good, not like a punishment: walking, Pilates, stretching. Movement boosts your mood, shifts stagnant energy, and connects you to your body.

· Eat with awareness – Choose whole foods that nourish. Slow down, chew mindfully, and notice how food feels, not just how it tastes.

· End the day gently – With a calming ritual, write down a few words of gratitude, or simply close the day with intention. Prioritise deep, restorative sleep. It’s the foundation of your wellbeing.

Relaxation – The forgotten pillar:

We’re taught to eat clean, exercise, and sleep well. But relaxation? That’s rarely celebrated, yet it's essential. And yes, it’s different to sleep. Without it, the body can stay stuck in fight or flight mode. Did you know you could be stuck in fight-or-flight and not even know it? Relaxation is where healing happens. It’s where the nervous system recalibrates. It’s not a luxury – it’s a requirement for real, sustainable health.

What does a regulated nervous system feel like?

·       Muscles feel relaxed, not tight or braced

·       Your digestion works smoothly

·       You sleep deeply and wake up refreshed

·       You have consistent energy (not wired or wiped)

·       Your thoughts are clear and grounded

·       You can focus without feeling overwhelmed

·       You respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively

·       You feel present – not stuck in the past or racing into the future

·       You’re more patient and compassionate – with yourself and others

·       You can feel your emotions without being flooded by them

·       You trust yourself and your decisions

·       It’s not about being calm all the time – it’s about your ability to return to balance – to self-regulate – no matter what life brings.

EMBODY is a space for you to make space – for you.

To move. To breathe. To reconnect. To come home to yourself.

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