Renee Maisch on Mastery, Movement, and Modern Healing

Name

Renee Maisch

What inspired you to become a teacher?

I had been a long term student of Pilates and used to do two classes back to back regularly. One of my teachers gave me a prod and said - why don't you just become a teacher? So I completed my teacher training, mainly for myself - but then found I had a deep passion for actually teaching and sharing knowledge.

How would you describe your teacher style in three words?

Intentional, Lighthearted, Empowering

Do you have a favourite pose, exercise or principle to teach - and why?

My favourite block to teach and perform is back extension. In our modern age, it is THE most important mobility and strengthening focus we need. Why? Because we spend so much time in forward flexion hunched over phones, laptops etc. Resulting from this, our back extensors have become long and weak as a result of our modern lifestyles and to maintain and upright posture and walk with grace and ease - we NEED a strong and mobile back.

What does your personal practice look like outside of the studio?

Although I love the reformer, my passion lies with Mat Pilates. The reason being is that I can do it anywhere, whenever I like, so my personal practice sees me doing more Mat Pilates, sprinkled with some Qi-Gong and Mace Flow.

What do you love to do when you're not teaching or practicing?

I love being in nature, travelling and focusing on building my private member's association which is rooted in Natural Hygiene, Detoxification and Fasting. I am also passionate about essential oils and with my partner, in the process of setting up a business where we will provide pure, high frequency Egyptian Essence Oils. All in all - I have a lot on at the moment - but loving it all!

What's your favourite animal - and why?

As I have gotten older and aligning more with a naturally hygienic lifestyle, I have found value in all animals, not valuing one life more than the other.

Are you a sunrise or sunset person?

Both! Depends which one I can catch.

What's your favourite drink?

At the moment, fresh orange, pineapple and ginger juice.

If you could have one super power what would it be and why?

To fly!

What has your practice taught you about life?

Mastery is like a receding horizon. Although you can practice something for years, you can still find it challenging as your refine your technique.