Sofia

Sofia Engelman is a Brooklyn-based certified Pilates instructor, dance artist, educator, and writer specializing in gender-affirming Pilates for queer and trans folks. Sofia fell in love with Pilates while navigating chronic illness and then healing from and returning to dance after a subsequent invasive, emergency surgery. She has trained via several contemporary Pilates programs (The Kane School, East River Pilates, and Ellie Herman Pilates) and is in a continual practice of finding ways to make this work accessible, decolonial, evidence-based, fear and harm-reducing, and consensual. Sofia's facilitation is grounded in their practice as a dancer and inspired by the teachings of her dance, somatics, and anatomy/kinesiology teachers. Sofia also holds a BA with Highest Honors in Dance from Smith College and lives in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn / with their spouse Em, three cats, and about 40 plants.

Podcast Overview: Conversations on Gender-Affirming Pilates with Sofia Engelman

Introduction: Sofia Engelman, a Brooklyn-based certified Pilates instructor, dance artist, educator, and writer, focuses on gender-affirming Pilates for queer and trans individuals. She brings a unique perspective on how movement can be a transformative tool for those navigating their gender identity.

Exploring the Need for Trauma-Informed Approaches:

- Sofia discusses the reasons behind her commitment to trauma-informed practices. She addresses the misconception around 'anti-trauma-informed' views and clarifies how trauma-informed care supports individuals in feeling safe and respected during exercise.

Mental Health Awareness:

- Given that May is Mental Health Awareness Month, Sofia talks about the prevalence of depression and mental health challenges within the queer and trans communities she works with. She stresses the importance of using sensitive and inclusive language to discuss these issues.

Sensitivity to the Body:

- Sofia explains her approach to teaching Pilates with sensitivity to body parts that might be sources of discomfort or dysphoria, such as breasts and hips. This includes the techniques she uses to ensure physical exercises do not exacerbate emotional distress.

The Role of Language and Cueing:

- The conversation delves into the significance of language in Pilates instruction. Sofia emphasizes how appropriate cueing and vocabulary can create an empowering and inclusive environment for all participants.

Creating a Safe Space for Connection:

- Sofia shares her methods for holding space that allows individuals, possibly for the first time, to connect with their bodies through movement. This practice helps in fostering a sense of bodily autonomy and presence.

The Power of the Pause:

- Finally, Sofia highlights the 'power of the pause'—using moments of stillness within Pilates sessions to enhance mindfulness and introspection, helping participants to integrate their physical movements with mental and emotional states.

This conversation aims to enlighten listeners on how gender-affirming Pilates can serve as a vital support system for the queer and trans community, promoting both physical and mental wellness through thoughtful and respectful movement practices.