It's National Girls and Women in Sports Day.  

In the comments below, celebrate by telling us about a girl or woman you know who is strong, bold, and active. I am always impressed by @hkspence pictured here.

Physical activity decreases stress in girls and fosters self-esteem, teamwork, and leadership. Visit @womenssportsfoundation for resources and tips to inspire and support the girls in our life to be active. 

Research suggests we can facilitate regular physical activity and be supportive of positive sporting experiences for girls by building on their natural enjoyment in physical activities. Encourage them to participate  as fully as possible in whatever forms offer them satisfaction and opportunities for achievement. 

According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the world. Moving our bodies and doing what we love are two of the top recommendations for maintaining a healthy heart!...... PILATES!!

Pilates increases your heart rate and helps to improve circulation to speed fresh, oxygenated blood throughout your body. Maximize your efforts with deep Pilates breathing, expanding and contracting your lungs completely with each breath, to help the oxygen into your bloodstream.

If you love Pilates, make time to do it! Pilates is a mindful practice and research shows that by reducing stress and enjoying life more, we can improve our heart health. Stress can lead to high blood pressure, less sleep, poor eating, smoking and a sedentary lifestyle. So, move your body--doing Pilates or another movement you enjoy.

If you don't fancy yourself a "mover," give Pilates a try--you just might discover you "inner mover" and find a new love.