Strength and Spirit

Season’s greetings to you all! This past year has been the busiest for me teaching Romana’s Pilates since I started eleven years ago. Welcome to new clients and please forgive the long drought of no postings.

As the year winds down and we are busy connecting with family and friends, I wanted to share a story that will hopefully inspire you all to take a moment and remember all the gifts in your life - especially the greatest gift that lives within you.

On the way to work the other morning, I decided to hit the Bluetooth radio and see what came on. I have no idea where the songs came from, but they were actually pretty good! Mariah Carey’s song "Hero" played and I got so emotional; it just came out of me. I had to quickly regroup as I was arriving at the studio (my clients don’t ever see me with tears in my eyes)! It happened so fast, I didn’t know where it came from.

Later, I was trying to think why that song brought on such a strong emotional reaction. Then I remembered. Six weeks after our youngest son was born (he’s 24 today), we were at my brother’s house for his son’s Christening party. Always a great time with the McCoy’s! We were just about to leave when a freak accident occurred. Our middle child Jack, who was about 19 months old, walked through an unplugged coffee urns extension cord which caused the full 50 cup urn of very hot coffee to spill on Jack. The liquid went through his shoes and took the skin off his feet to the bone, as well as other parts of his body.

We ended up at Shriners Hospital in Boston-a place loaded with living angels and enormously talented doctors and nurses. In fact, if we were to have another child and the baby was a girl, she would be named after Jack’s nurse, Brenna. Jack and my husband Jay, who never left Jack's side, stayed at Shriner’s for just about a month. Let me tell you why my son left Shriner’s on his way to full recovery and no surgeries....Prayers. The gift of brilliant and courageous doctors and nurses, and a small child’s will to keep moving and not let fear get in his way to returning home.

The song "Hero" must have been out on the radio back then because the words seemed to have been written for Jack. But those words are universal for all ages for within each and every soul lies a Hero. And when I heard those lyrics and got emotional, I knew at that moment, I must share them and remind you all this…

And then a hero comes along

With the strength to carry on

And you cast your fears aside

And you know you can survive

So when you feel like hope is gone

Look inside you and be strong

And you'll finally see the truth

That a hero lies in you

Let us not forget! Keep the Faith everyone! Prayers are always heard…and if you find yourself starting to doubt or letting fear sink its sharp numbing nails into your soul….remember that you and you alone have all the gifts you need to be a Hero.

Wishing you and your family good health, good cheer, and Peace on Earth.

In peace and health,

Debbie

Power of Love and Family

My sister, Madeline, who puts my newsletters together and makes them look put together and professional, recently asked, “Where’s your newsletter?” The thing is, I’ve actually written about three of them - primarily focused on healthy aging with some humor sprinkled in for good measure. I’ve delayed sending because there is so much heartache around given the current world conditions. Just yesterday as I was listening to the 70’s channel on Sirius XM, the DJ, a Boston guy, got emotional giving UMASS Memorial Hospital a shout out to all the nurses and doctors who were the only ones allowed to see his father-in-law who had been on life support since December 30th. The restrictions were just recently lifted to allow one family member a day to visit. The nurses would call with tears saying, “It’s a miracle! He’s improving every day!”

Ah, the power of love and family . Never underestimate them. Thank you to all the nurses, doctors, and caregivers out there who are filling the roles of a patient’s loved ones until family arrives. We are all deeply grateful. The studio has weathered the storm, everyone has remained healthy and strong, and we are all looking forward to not wearing a mask! A big thank you to all my clients for trusting in me and the studio to work out safely and for at least that time we are together, taking your mind off of life’s current challenges. Hang in there...the light is coming!

The sheer power of love and family is mind blowing. For Valentine’s Day, my husband and I had a nice visit with my (almost 90 year old) mother (see above in picture) and unexpectedly my brother, Kevin also stopped by with treats. We had just missed my sister, Amy and her husband who stopped by with flowers and treats as well. I haven’t seen my brother in about a year-never has that happened in my life! When we all left, my mother was so happy and she said it was so nice to have a visit that seemed like the old days-family just poppin’ in and out, no worries. With that said, we didn’t hug and stayed at least 6 feet apart from each other; however, just being together was wonderful!

It is time we get back to family - unless of course, you are coughing and sneezing and aren’t feeling well or have other health restrictions. But in my heart and soul, I know it is time. Let us hope that we continue to move toward less fear and more love and family. Our souls need it. Our children need it. Our parents need it. Our siblings need it. Our friends need it. Our family needs it. In the meantime, the best offense is always a good defense...wash your hands, exercise/move your body daily, eat well, lay off the snacks and sugar as best you can, drink half your weight in ounces of pure water every day, get your nose in the sun, make sure you are taking appropriate vitamins, and last but certainly not least, start thinking about when you will see your loved ones...and DO IT!

The next newsletter will address aging...and the power of it! And, yes, Pilates plays an important role! Until then, be well!!

In peace and health,

Debbie

Stay Healthy

During these challenging times, it is a bit more difficult to come up with an inspiring message. But we must keep our chins up and carry on. Please keep your vulnerable loved ones looked after and continue practicing smart hygiene protocol. I’m a firm believer in soap and water hand washing! Thank goodness because I can’t get any gel sanitizer anywhere!

I have closed the studio until April 1 . Even though the studio is always clean and we practice strict hygiene etiquette and classes are one on one, I felt it best to play it safe and keep everyone home until we get a handle on this pandemic. I’m not a big fan of digital classes, but in these uncertain times, I am looking into using Zoom (and other platforms) for client sessions. As soon as I know more, I will send out the details.

In the meantime, let’s focus on staying healthy. In case inquiring minds want to know, here is what I’ve been doing:

1. Cleaning...and more cleaning! Thank goodness I actually love to clean. Phones, tablets, inside car surfaces…Get it all. These little bastards can live on some surfaces for 3 days!

2. Maintain healthy diet. Eat the rainbow! Two veggies that are excellent antioxidant sources: raw spinach and asparagus. Eat them raw (please see salad recipe below). Continue with morning antioxidant smoothie. I’ll share that recipe on another post.

3. Increased my Vitamin D3 and Vitamin C

4. Exercise/fresh air: get my Pilates workouts in and walk outside when the weather is nice!

5. Wash hands for 20 seconds - it seems like 100 times a day

6. Make some dishes that can be batched cooked and frozen. I made Bolognese yesterday.

7. Breathe. Read. Take a break from the news. It goes a long way to ease anxiety!

8. Send a card to older loved ones who are staying in their homes. They will love it and can reread the note at any time.

9. And finally...I read this inspiring story on Twitter. Please share the link with anyone you know who could use a lift. It has nothing to do with the Pandemic, but everything to do with love and community and family.

Keep moving! Cleaning is good exercise! Stay lifted in Spirits and in your Powerhouse! Email me if you are interested in “Distance Pilates classes”.....I’m working on it!

May you and your families all remain healthy and safe.

In peace and health,

Debbie

Cheers to the Twenties!

CHEERS TO THE TWENTIES!

Welcome to the Twenties.....It’s been 100 years since we’ve been able to say that! What will the twenties bring? Where do you want to be when we welcome the thirties? Ten years will fly by...!

As I’ve mentioned in earlier posts, living on the Cape being surrounded by the sea, the winter grasses, and sky, invites inspiration. Just today, while I was walking around Hyannisport (JFK would call it “heaven”), I was thinking about my feet. And if you saw my feet, you’re thinking...”what the hell?!”

Years ago, when I was entering sixth grade, a Recreation Department trip to Lincoln Park ended with my foot getting trapped under the Tilt-A-Whirl. You see, the actual cart we were in was “broken” and when the ride ended, the cart kept swaying back and forth...just waiting to ensnare an innocent victim! Well, with gangly legs, my exit took longer and my foot never cleared. Trapped! The pain was indeed great, and my older brother, Jimmy was the only one strong enough to carry me (with cast) up and down the stairs at our home (a fond memory, to be sure). To read my tribute to Jimmy, click here . Then some years later, while in college, the uneven cobblestone streets of Boston were not so forgiving, the curb moved (ha!), and, again, a cast-this time on the other foot.

I wake up in the morning and my feet are sore, with the cold weather increasing the tightness. But, I don’t really worry about those feet because I have Pilates to help me-and if I’m as good as my clients, I would be doing home exercises in addition to my studio workouts-agh!...can’t be perfect!! The thing is, practicing true Pilates is a gift. Make no mistake, it is a workout. But it’s a workout every breathing human can do. And even exercises for your feet will do wonders.

So, I implore you to not wait until the thirties. Push yourself to get out there TODAY and start moving or eating healthier or reading more or doing more for the poor or simply, doing more for you. And perhaps while you’re “out there” getting things done, you will be inspired by a quiet thought.

Take that thought and JUST DO IT! Happy 2020!

Cheers, peace and health,

Debbie

P.S.: I’ve started doing my towel exercises for my feet at home... today’s walk did it!

An Unbroken Lineage

Happy Spring (finally!) everyone. I hope this post finds you all well. As usual, the Cape is beautiful and I’ve actually been to the beach a couple of times….pretty good for May.

When I decided years ago that I wanted to learn and teach Pilates, I began with a program close to home because I still had 3 kids at home and traveling for training would be tough. Well, the training wasn’t what I had expected and all intuitive hits were pointing to the original source of the work and that of legendary teacher, Romana Kryzanowska-who was in Manhattan. Manhattan! Well, I finally took the plunge and went to the city for my assessment.

The moment I stepped into the studio, I knew I was in the company of devoted professionals. The energy was amazing. I had my lesson and was blown away by the difference in what I had learned in previous Pilates lessons. It was harder, but I LOVED that. I was also so incredibly humbled and knew in that instant that I had better forget about anything I had already learned about Pilates and/or exercise and keep an open mind. Otherwise, I knew that I was cooked. It was that simple.

Pilates isn’t just a job to me. It’s a way of life. What I learn I carry with me each and every day. How I walk, sit, work out, garden, play golf, the list is endless! And here’s another thing...what I’ve learned from that unbroken teacher lineage of Joe and Clara Pilates to Romana Kryzanowska to Sari Mejia-Santo to Daria Pace to all the master level teachers with Romana’s Pilates is THIS:

This type of exercise is like nothing I’ve ever done because it’s not just exercise. It’s a system, a philosophy, a whole body head to your toes way of moving. There is seemingly no end to the depth of strength and technique that goes with Pilates. If you love a challenge, you’ll get along fine with this system of exercises. And yet, every body can reap its benefits.

I am grateful to be able to share with you this unique, time tested form of movement and exercise-it ain’t easy, but it is life changing and anyone can learn to do it. But you have to have an open mind...otherwise...you’re cooked! All you have to do is take that first step. I did.

See you in the studio!

In Peace and Health,

Debbie

A Fresh Take On Late Bloomers

A FRESH TAKE ON LATE BLOOMERS

Welcome to 2019! This is the time that we detox our lives and bodies and get moving-right?? If you haven’t started yet, don’t beat yourself up. Do what I do and pull a Scarlet O’Hara..."I can’t think about that right now. If I do, I’ll go crazy. I’ll think about that tomorrow.” One of my favorite lines in Gone With the Wind!

Who are Late Bloomers? I’m one, but I actually think we are all late bloomers at some point in our lives. Was Joe Pilates a late bloomer? Story goes that he started devising his system of exercises at age 9-not exactly late bloomer material. But, it did take him many years of study and practice and trial and error to create his method he named "Contrology." His genius was lying latent until it was the right time for his work to be tested.

Joe Pilates believed that you could survive anything - as long as you were practicing his method. His decades of work was created to prove that one notion…and prove it over and over and over again he did.

For my new clients, remember this: practicing Pilates will make a late bloomer out of you . This method will take time and patience, but the payoffs are life changing. Yes, to be a late bloomer is a good thing! There is no time like the present to start anew. Continue that project you’ve been working on or change gears and go in a new direction. No success happens overnight. So keep plugging away, no matter your age and if you need a day to think about things like Scarlet O’Hara, no worries! After all, "tomorrow is another day!”

See you in the studio!

In Peace and Health,

Debbie

A Christmas Tribute

Cape Cod has never been more beautiful! Today is the annual Christmas Stroll at Osterville Village-my studio’s new home. The Village looks like an old-fashioned Currier and Ives print- swags of greens and ribbons, twinkling white lights, small Christmas trees dotting the village and gorgeous themed window displays in the merchants windows-so enchanting! I am truly grateful to be here.

Those smaller Christmas trees dotting the village were adopted and decorated by local businesses in the village. The Real McCoy teamed up with Pocketfull of Posies Children’s Shop and our theme was, “Let There Be Peace On Earth,” a longtime favorite song of mine and one that continually finds its way into my heart.

My Christmas tribute has to do with our tree and that special song...37 years ago my older brother Jimmy died in a car accident; I was 15. For years, I would say out loud “Why not me?” I kept plugging along, if knocked down, I’d get back up….and always felt inspired by Jimmy. He gave me a gift not long before he died. It was dinner time at the McCoy house, we were all seated at our very large makeshift dinner table. I had just poured myself a tall glass of cold milk and sat down next to Jimmy (Jimmy was 6’5”, 230, and an amazing athlete). He said, “Look outside! What’s that bird flying?” I turned my head to look, and in about 3 seconds flat, he grabbed my glass and gulped down the entire thing. When I turned to face him and started laughing (because it was at least the 100th time he fooled me!), he looked me in the eye and with an unusual maturity, said, “You’re going to be alright” and gave me that nod of the head and smile of his.

So when I sign my newsletters, “In Peace and Health”….that’s for Jimmy...when I get hit with a challenge or am tested to keep the peace...I think of Jimmy...when we need a theme for our village Christmas tree...”Let There Be Peace On Earth”...another one for Jimmy...

Each day I try for Peace, I did say try...I am Irish after all!! And I’ve stopped asking, “Why Not me?” years ago. I try to make a difference, in small ways, and I do this for my brother Jimmy.

“Let There Be Peace On Earth” was sung at his funeral with such passion. I don’t remember much from that day, but I do remember that song...and what a song to remember and be inspired by.

May you all be inspired by your family and friends who are no longer with us. Remember, they are indeed with you, and forever shall be.

In Peace and Health,

Debbie

What Inspires You?

A Warm Hello from Cape Cod!

So many topics race through my mind when it's time for a new newsletter. This month, in particular, I was all over the place....until today. As it is always my goal to inspire others to action, here are some thoughts:

• "If you don't have the time to do it right, when will you have the time to do it over?"-John Wooden. Keep your Pilates practice consistent for this is the only way to reap its many benefits.

• I recently taught a couple of my "old" clients in my new studio; they needed a refresher. They were both running a half marathon the following morning in Falmouth. One client lost all her toes on both feet due to a horrific strep infection that nearly killed her. She was nervous about the race as this was her first one since the surgery. She finished that race, and I hear in good time! Her strength of spirit and faith inspires me and now, I hope you too. Get moving!

• If you think you can't practice Pilates, think again. One of my current clients recently told me that she used a can opener to open a can...no big deal? Think again. She hasn't been able to do that for about 8 years! Her hands are arthritic due to meds she needs to take for her kidney transplant. One of the Pre-Pilates exercises we practice is Castinettes. She practices this several times each day...and now, is free to open cans again...among other things! Inspirational.

• It's the season for Comfort Food! I love to cook and recently made a chicken pot pie, a recipe in my "New England Open House Cookbook" by Sarah Leah Chase. As a young twenty something and living on my own, I bought a couple cookbooks to help me learn how to cook (my mother is a good cook...but running the household with 13 kids did not allow time for cooking classes!). Sarah's first cookbook was one of them, "Nantucket Open House Cookbook." I still have that cookbook (best brownie recipe) and thank her for inspiring me to put home cooked meals on the table for my family. If you're looking for a good cookbook, check it out.

• Anyone who knows me, knows that I've been into all things "healthy" since I've been 15. In high school, I would put down a tablespoon of cod liver oil and chase it with orange juice-for my breakouts. My Dad would take one for his arteries, me for my skin. We had that routine for some time... My most recent experiment is with celery juice...not as bad as cod liver oil, but 16 oz. is a lot more than 1 Tablespoon! The celery juice goes to work killing off any viruses that love to hang out in our organs. I'll have to update you on this, but, so far, so good!

• My father loved reading about matters of health. He would often say, "I'm the healthiest guy in my head." It was hard for him to practice what he read. It was hard breaking the Martini a night ritual, one he enjoyed which reminds me of another classic comment. After announcing yet another baby on the way, one of my dad's buddies said, "Terry, why don't you try practicing the rhythm method?" My dad's response? "We tried that, but after a couple martinis, the Hell with the rhythm method!" And so...the rest is history! The moral of the story is...LIVE LIFE TO ITS FULLEST. ENJOY THOSE MARTINIS. EVERYTHING IN MODERATION. JUST REMEMBER TO GET BACK IN THE STUDIO THE NEXT DAY!

In peace and health,

Deb

Transitions and New Beginnings

A Warm Hello from Cape Cod!

Today is the first newsletter with my new location in Osterville, a welcoming to my new clients, and a brief reflection of these past several months.

We decided to take the plunge and sell our home of 23 years. We still had baby furniture in the attic...just to give you an idea of the magnitude of the clean out. The septic failed and the entire irrigation system had to be redone. I was thinking about writing about the experience, but there was nothing joyous about it at all! It was long hours, emotional, a goodbye to our children's youth, and it's scary starting over in a new place...so you will never hear me sugar coat that experience. One and done! Not to mention saying goodbye to my faithful clients (which I didn't do because I hate goodbyes!).

What I will focus on is the positives. I believe change is good and my husband and I were ready for it. Our new home is becoming more comfortable each week and I do love a decorating challenge, so I have enjoyed settling in. My new clients are all wonderful and I look forward to seeing their progress.

I am grateful for so many things, most especially my family - my husband and children, my 12 siblings and their families, and the entire Riley clan. And my beautiful, amazing mother. She was worried about me during the move because I was so stressed out!! Little did she know, it was her strength and words of wisdom that helped me navigate those rough waters. I asked her one day how she got through the various challenges she faced in life. Her response? "I never looked back."

So, there you have it. If you think you can't do something, whatever it may be, think again. You can. Your body will go through the ringer, but then you will start to see the light at the other end. And remember...just keep looking forward.

In peace and health,

Deb

Paradigm for Longevity

Here’s hoping your 2018 is off to a strong and positive start. Life with a home studio is quite nice-no more dealing with lousy landlords! We have settled in and are doing well. The winter light in the studio is just beautiful.

Today’s message is about Longevity. It is something we all want - no matter your age. One of the main reasons I began Pilates is that it is something I can do my entire lifespan. There is no pounding to my joints (which took a major beating as a young athlete), and it has really improved my flexibility, balance, strength, and overall look of my body. At 52, I look better now than I did in my thirties-and I weigh more!

I urge all of you to really think about your fitness goals for 2018. Do you want to be that 80-year-old who needs a walker or do you want to be crushing it in your 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and beyond?? We are living longer as never before….let us live longer with a healthy mindset. Let us commit to a (Pilates!) fitness regimen that produces real results. Humans are able to live for 120 years (yes!), so let us all start thinking about an exercise program that will take you through the decades of your life. Start now. I’m here to help you get there!!

The Pilates Paradigm: Start. Stay Consistent. Trust the Work. Enjoy Longevity.

I’m ready to work….are you?? Call, Text, or Email Me to start moving!

IN SEARCH OF....

Bodies for a mat class on Friday mornings at 7:30 am!! Male or female. I have space for two people to join an existing client for mat class. Mat Class is a great way to be introduced to the work or add to your private practice. We have fun in class and you WILL sweat, so please contact me by phone, text or email. Starting ASAP. $25/Class. Thanks!

Let's work together to achieve Whole-Body-Health! Looking forward to New Beginnings!!

In Peace & Health,

Debbie

Every End is a New Beginning

Hello friends! I hope you and your families are all well. A lot has happened since my last post....my studio moved, our Cape house sold, and another son went off to college! Like I said… a lot!! But…Change is Good.

Here's a quick look at what's happening. The studio has been relocated to my home. We are all set up...it looks great! Everything is ready for your body!

• MAT CLASSES: Due to smaller studio, maximum of 3 students. ALL classes are by appointment only. Please email me to set up your schedule or put together a small mat class group.

• SEMI-PRIVATE OR PRIVATE LESSONS. Both Semi-Private and Private lessons continue to be available at my new studio. Please email me to set up your schedule.

• NEW WEBSITE!!! Please check out my new website at www.therealmccoytruepilates.com for more information.

WRENTHAM DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Larger group Mat class is now available at the Wrentham Developmental Center (formerly Wrentham State School) school gymnasium (131 Emerald Street, Wrentham, MA 02093).

• Mat classes are available Monday - Thursday from 4:00 PM - 4:50 PM

• Pre-registration is mandatory for mat classes (Please email me to pre-register)

• Mat Fee - $20/class (maximum 8 students)

• Mats and Pilates extras will be provided by The Real McCoy True Pilates

• First come, first served.

I have booked this gym for the year; however, if I don't get enough interest, I will have to forfeit my slot. Please tell your friends so that we can make it work at this facility. The gym has been redone and it's quite nice.

Let's work together to achieve Whole-Body-Health! Looking forward to New Beginnings!!

In Peace & Health,

Debbie

Crossroads

Crossroads. We all encounter them. Everyday. Some big, some not so big. I am writing today to let you know that my studio in Plainville is closed. The roof literally just gave out and I had to vacate the building. Funny thing though....the water was only coming in on my studio and ladies room! A message???? Perhaps.

So, thank goodness I have strong sons (and husband) who helped me move my studio to storage over the weekend. I was at that space for almost 8 years. I first used the space just to train because I couldn't possibly be in NYC every week. Then, little by little, I began teaching. So, a big thank you to all who have entered those doors and allowed me to help you achieve your fitness goals. I didn't win you all over, but I did win a few😉 .

The studio did its job. Now it's time for me to move on...to where, I do not know! I have been looking at different spaces, but they're either too expensive, too much build out needed, too retail-y, or just ugly. Not that the building on West Bacon was anything to look at, but the space inside was nice. My next move will be to a prettier building and just as nice a space.

Crossroads are good times to reflect...as every decision made is really important. So, I will take this time and see where it takes me. I will send out any details once I know more. Spring is here! A time for new beginnings. I hope to see you all again soon!

In Peace,

Debbie