Before retirement, I worked for many years as a nurse in both the Army and the NHS. These days, life is filled with activities I love: travelling, exploring places of interest, theatre visits, gardening, baking, walking, cold water swimming and researching family history. Most importantly, I enjoy spending time with family and friends.

However, a few years ago, persistent low back pain and sciatica were making it increasingly difficult to enjoy life to the full.

Retirement has meant embracing a more active lifestyle and making the most of everything Cornwall has to offer.

Nature photography, wildflower painting, gardening, coastal walks and spending time outdoors have all become regular parts of life. With more freedom to enjoy these activities, maintaining strength, mobility and flexibility has become increasingly important.

That's what led me to OsteoPilates Cornwall.

As I've moved through my sixties, I've become increasingly aware of changes in my body.

Like many people, I noticed I was feeling stiffer, achier and less flexible than I used to be. Everyday movements weren't quite as easy, and I found myself looking for a form of exercise that could help me maintain mobility and keep me moving well for years to come.

That's what initially led me to OsteoPilates Cornwall.

Earlier in life, I regularly participated in high-intensity exercise and enjoyed being physically active. However, over time, work became increasingly demanding and eventually arthritis and musculoskeletal problems began to limit the activities I could comfortably do.

I knew I needed to find a form of exercise that would support my body rather than aggravate it.

When I retired and moved to Cornwall, I was looking forward to enjoying more time with family, friends and my growing role as a busy nanny.

Having previously worked as an Early Years Manager, I have always enjoyed keeping active and involved in my community. These days, life is filled with family time, choir rehearsals, reading, Pilates classes and making the most of everything Cornwall has to offer.

However, before discovering OsteoPilates Cornwall, I had started to notice some unwelcome changes.

When I moved to Cornwall in November 2024, I was keen to continue my Pilates journey. I had recently started attending a beginners Pilates class and was enjoying learning something new, so I booked a couple of one-to-one sessions with Heather at OsteoPilates Cornwall to build on that foundation.

Unfortunately, life had other plans.

Discover how balance training improves nervous system control, muscle coordination, injury prevention, and daily function for all ages.

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