Pilates came into my life during my first job as an Occupational
Therapist. I was working for a home care agency, which involved
driving hundreds of miles a week throughout San Diego County
to treat clients. The physical demands of this job left me
with an aching back everyday. Knowing that exercise and activity
can usually be the remedy for any aches and pains, I decided
to try a Pilates mat class at a local studio. I immediately
fell in love with Pilates. After every class, I left feeling
revitalized. I moved with greater ease. My daily aches and
pains eventually subsided, and my overall strength improved,
making the physical aspect of my job easier. Then I realized,
if Pilates was making me feel this great, what could it do
for my clients who were suffering from far worse pain, injuries,
and physical limitations. I started to use Pilates based
exercises as a rehabilitation tool, and soon realized it
had a substantial impact in aiding the recovery of the injured
clients I was treating.
In 2004, dedicated to a life-long
pursuit in helping clients live healthy, functional lives,
I moved to Seattle, where I began Pilates instructor training.
I became a certified Stott Pilates instructor in mat, reformer,
Cadillac, chair, and barrel. Having been a therapist since
2001, I am continually attending workshops and seminars
to increase my education and knowledge base. In particular,
I have taken specialized courses in advanced Pilates exercise
and training for clients with injuries and for special
populations. I focus on providing client-centered, therapeutic
exercise programs, particularly in the areas of ergonomics,
women’s health and pain
management. Being a therapist and Pilates instructor has
enabled me to utilize my extensive clinical background and
employ my knowledge of anatomy and therapeutic exercise,
empowering my clients to achieve their full potential.
 May all that is vital, strong, and healthy, flow from your
Center!
Leah Hanisch Harris
“Better than a thousand days of diligent study, is one day with a great
teacher”
Japanese proverb |
