alignment
the position or place where the joints of the body are both in line and symetrical
articulate the spine
the movement of the spine so that each segment is clearly distinguished from the next as you move through the spinal column
box
the area defined from shoulder to shoulder and hip to hip, which serves as a self-reference for your alignment
chin to chest
the position assumed when the body is supine and the head is lifted. The weight of the head is drawn toward the chest, without resulting in tension
dynamics
the motion of a body part as a result of the energy you perform with it
navel to spine//scoop
the drawing inward and upward of the abdominal muscles and particularly the transverse abdominals, resulting in a hollow or scooped appearance in the waistline
opposition
the act of using a muscles group or body part in an opposing way to another muscle group or body part
pilates stance or position
the tensing of the gluteal or buttock muscles to effect the rotating or wrapping of the legs together from the hips to the heels, resulting in the tripod position with the feet
powerhouse//girdle of strength//core muscles
the band of muscles encircling the torso and extending from the lower rib cage to just below the buttocks
stabilize//anchor//plant
the activation of the core muscles to fix the body in a position from which it is not easily adjusted
threshold
the level of work where you are only just able to complete the activity
wings down
the act of sliding the shoulder blades down the back and away from the neck and head