Pilates has long been a tool for healing. Its founder, Joseph Pilates, designed exercises that were both a workout and a form of rehabilitation, helping people restore strength and mobility. Among his students was Eve Gentry, a dancer who, after a radical mastectomy in the 1950s, worked with Joseph Pilates to regain her range of motion. Her story shows how mindful movement can support recovery, rebuild strength, and nurture resilience.

Pilates offers more than just exercise — it supports both physical recovery and emotional well-being. It could help restore shoulder mobility, improve strength, and reduce pain and fatigue after surgery. It also encourages mindfulness and body awareness, helping survivors reconnect with their bodies and regain confidence in movement. The focus on breathing, flow, and concentration can reduce stress and anxiety, supporting emotional health during recovery. Over time, these combined benefits could help improve overall quality of life, reflecting the same holistic approach that Joseph Pilates championed.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to celebrate survivors, support those undergoing treatment, and raise awareness about wellness and recovery. It reminds us how healing is physical, emotional, and deeply connected to community. One way the Pilates community comes together is through Teasers for Tatas, founded by instructor and survivor Melissa Miles. Each year, studios across the world join this movement to raise awareness and funds for wellness programs that support breast cancer patients and survivors.

This year, Pilates School of Movement joined for the first time. Across the Pilates community, we are reminded that healing is rarely a solitary path. It is strengthened by support, shared movement, and connection – embracing the power to restore, strengthen, and inspire hope.

Here’s a clip of Joseph Pilates and Eve Gentry: