Description

In this very special episode, Karen reunites with her dear friend and long-time Pilates coach, Louise Collinson. This is the story of Karen’s transformation, through the limiting beliefs imposed by her medical team when diagnosed with scoliosis to the new energy, strength and fitness she now enjoys following the building of her confidence and release of long-held pain and emotion through movement.

For over 20 years, Louise has supported Karen in managing her scoliosis, helping her find deep healing through the practice of Pilates. This has been as much about the belief that Louise helped Karen to develop in herself as it is about movement. Rosy, Karen and Louise explore how Pilates goes far beyond exercise becoming a dance of confidence, connection, a safe space for release, and a profound practice of body–mind awareness.

About Louise

Louise is a highly experienced Pilates teacher, dancer, and educator for Balanced Body California (@balanced_body). With her beautiful Body in Mind Pilates Studio in Derby, she creates a safe, nurturing environment where people of all ages and abilities can rediscover their bodies, release old patterns, and build resilience. Her approach “Body in Mind Pilates” integrates physical intelligence with emotional awareness, offering both healing and empowerment.

What We Talk About in This Episode 

• How Louise discovered Pilates during her dance training, and why it became central to her life. 
• The deep connection between body, mind, and healing. 
• The six principles of Pilates (plus the seventh we now add today). 
• The difference between mat classes and reformer-based one-to-one sessions. 
• Stories of transformation, including Karen’s own journey with scoliosis and the release of long-held pain and emotion through movement. 
• Why building a trusting relationship with your teacher is key. 
• How Pilates supports conditions such as osteoporosis, injuries, or post-surgery recovery. 
• The importance of finding balance as a practitioner and a healer. 

A Personal Note from Karen 

After two years of travelling and living nomadically, reconnecting with Louise has been such a joy. She has not only been my Pilates coach but also one of my greatest “health angels”—a guide who has helped me stay well, unravel my body week after week, and overcome limiting beliefs about what I can and cannot do. 

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