The start of a new year often brings pressure to set big goals. The idea of “new year, new you” can make us feel rushed to change everything by midnight. But Pilates instructor Iyla Cousins believes the real answer lies in simply being present.
Iyla runs Mat and Flow, a community offering outdoor wellness sessions by the beach. This initiative, which started in October, combines Pilates, breathwork, and guided reflection. It aims to help participants reconnect with their bodies and find balance.
Each session is thoughtfully designed with a theme, often influenced by moon cycles or the energy around the group. Iyla wants everyone to leave feeling more confident and supported. For instance, a class focused on self-love may emphasize core and heart-opening movements, while a session on resilience might target hips and glutes to foster stability.
Iyla’s own journey into mindful movement began as a personal search for clarity and emotional balance. She shares, “Pilates taught me to move with intention and listen to my body.” This understanding has guided her in creating a community space that feels nurturing, especially after her return to Jamaica.
Growing up in Portland, she noticed a consistent disconnection from self and mindfully moving due to our fast-paced lives and technology. This became more evident when she returned home, prompting her to create a platform that emphasizes community, presence, and intentional movement. Mat and Flow also supports local vendors, fostering connections within the community.
Nature plays a vital role in Iyla’s sessions. Without mirrors, participants can move freely, removing the pressure to compare themselves to others. This outdoor setting helps calm the nervous system and promotes a sense of peace.
To help navigate the demands of January, Iyla suggests some simple at-home practices:
Get Creative: Learning something new, like cooking or art, can help channel energy positively and keep the mind engaged.
Breathe Intentionally: Slow, deep breaths can calm the mind. Iyla recommends inhaling for six counts, pausing for two, then exhaling for six to clear mental clutter.
Move Gently: Even a brief walk or light stretching can boost your mood and mental clarity. Focus on core engagement, hip mobility, and mindful movements.
Meditate Daily: A few minutes of quiet can settle the mind. Observing your breath helps ground your thoughts and develop clarity.
Build Community: Sharing experiences with others provides support and perspective, reminding us we’re not alone in our struggles.
As we step into a new year, it can be refreshing to focus on simply being present rather than chasing perfection. Iyla reminds us, “The goal isn’t productivity; it’s presence. Center yourself where you are, and that’s where real growth begins.”
If you’re interested in trying a Mat and Flow session, their next event is on January 3 at Great Huts in Port Antonio. It runs from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., allowing full access to the property’s amenities.
For more information about the benefits of mindful movement, check out the CDC’s research on the positive effects of physical activity here.
