We are currently in the middle of a fun-filled week in Corfu, and while I can’t say a holiday with an excitable 8-year-old is relaxing, it is definitely energising! Between beach adventures and swimming pool antics, I feel like I’ve swapped my Pilates mat for a mini sports camp!

With four more weeks of school holidays ahead, the juggle between parenting, planning and squeezing in moments of me-time is real. If you're anything like me, you'll know how quickly the days can fill up with everyone else’s needs - leaving your own well-being somewhere near the bottom of the list.

But here’s something I remind my clients (and myself!) all the time:

Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you. – Katie Reed

Make Self-Care a Standing Appointment

When my regular Pilates classes in Linlithgow are running, it’s much easier to show up - there’s a set day, time and place. But when those classes pause, like during summer breaks, staying consistent with your Pilates or fitness practice can feel a lot harder.

That’s why I’m a huge fan of planning.

I still write everything in a diary (yes, the good old paper kind!), but whether you're using a planner or your phone calendar, writing in your own self-care time makes a difference. When you schedule it like any other appointment, it’s far more likely to happen.

Online Pilates = Flexible, Anytime Self-Care

Even though my in-person Pilates classes in Linlithgow are taking a short summer break, you don’t need to pause your progress. My 5 Week Pilates Journey to Master Your Core Strength online course is perfect for this season. You can plan your sessions around holidays and outings and keep working on your core strength, posture and flexibility from wherever you are (garden, living room or even a holiday cottage!).

Or maybe it’s a walk in the sunshine, 10 minutes of stretching in the garden, or simply breathing deeply and moving mindfully - it all counts.

Whether you're a runner, a cyclist, or just someone who wants to feel strong and supple in daily life, remember this: consistent movement, even in small doses, keeps you feeling like your best self.

You Are Worth Booking In

So while I have lots planned for my daughter over the next few weeks, I’ve also pencilled in some non-negotiable appointments for me - a couple of workouts, some catch-ups with friends and a few slow mornings with my Pilates mat and green tea.

And I encourage you to do the same.

Make an appointment with your most important person - you. Because taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury. It’s essential.

If you need a place to start, I’d love for you to check out my online Pilates courses and set aside time to revisit the exercises we’ve worked on in class. You’ve got options and you’ve got this.

Ready to plan your self care with Pilates?

➡️ Explore online options if you prefer to move from home

➡️ Check the timetable for my Pilates classes in Linlithgow
➡️ Join my Pilates community on Facebook for more tips, support, and connection
➡️ Or sign up to my email list for inspiration and updates straight to your inbox

Because the time will pass anyway - you may as well use it to feel amazing.