I’m back from Momentum Fest 2018, slightly fatigued, but full of energy and motivation.
Everyone I have seen since arriving home has asked, “So, how was Momentum Fest?”
The first word that comes to mind every time is, “FUN!”
Momentum Fest Ambassadors
Fun is a simple description of how all the elements of Momentum Fest felt when Jessica Valant’s idea came to life. This was a gathering of Pilates lovers exploring movement. It was this group of supportive, friendly, caring people that made Momentum Fest so much fun.
We moved together…to music, to our breath, slowly, and quickly…in ways we may have never moved before.
There was no right or wrong.
Safety was never forgotten. You were supported in your choices to change how you moved to keep yourself safe.
Never once did you feel that it was not safe to give something new a try.
I was having a conversation with Jessica’s 4-year-old daughter prior to a class and I was asking her if she planned to present at Momentum Fest 2019 (rumour has it this might happen). She confidently told me yes. When I asked what she would teach, she said that she would show me one thing but that it was really hard. Of course, it involved some back extension, an area I always find challenging. When I said that I didn’t know if I could do that, there was no hesitation. Fiona looked me straight in the eyes and said, “You will never know if you don’t try!” She made me feel safe to give it a try and I did it!
There was safety in our movement but even more importantly you felt safe in sharing your words, handshakes, hugs, smiles and even tears with your Pilates friends, whether you had just met or known them from long before.
Friendships where made. Yup, on Facebook and Instagram, but more importantly in person. Friends gathered with one another for meals, visits to the lobby, relaxing in the hot tub and shopping at the vendors. We had wine, got silly in the photo booth and walked the red carpet together. Socializing with so many other Pilates teachers, studio owners and Pilates practitioners opened up doors for opportunities and inspiration.
There was a feeling of caring, positivity, and acceptance.
Feeling accepted into this Pilates family of wonderful people who traveled from all over the USA, parts of Canada, Australia, and the UK is such a special feeling. Being included and not judged feels good! Seeing Jessica’s family helping her out every step of the way, prior to, and during Momentum Fest was heartwarming. Often families get “hidden” away when we work like they don’t exist. It was so beautiful to see the excitement, loving and caring that Jessica’s family had for each other, the presenters and attendees. I’m grateful to have a family that supports me and encouraged me to go and be a part of Momentum Fest and loved seeing and hearing of other families doing the same.
Pilates and movement brought us together. Safety, friendship, support, caring, acceptance, love, and family will keep us together. Momentum Fest was Fun!
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