My Journey to Healing Through Movement

Hello and welcome to the very first Pilates Smith blog post! I can’t tell you how much it means to me that you’re here. Having just launched my business, I’m beyond excited to share my knowledge, experience, and advice with you. But before we dive into all things Pilates, I want to share a little bit about my movement journey—where it all started and how I got here.

A Lifetime of Movement

My name is Andrea Smith, and I’ve been teaching Pilates for 20 years. But my love for movement started long before that. Throughout my childhood, teens, and early twenties, the ballet studio was my second home. I spent countless hours refining my technique, striving for perfection, and discovering the incredible power of the human body. Ballet taught me discipline, focus, and the joy of movement.

But it also taught me something else: the consequences of pushing beyond my limits. The relentless pursuit of perfection took a toll on my body, leading to overuse injuries and chronic pain. People often asked if I wanted to dance professionally, but my answer was always no. I didn’t fully understand why at the time, but the theatrical side of ballet was never what lit me up—it was the work itself. I loved the challenge, the dedication, and the feeling of mastery.

Still, deep down, I knew there was something more for me—something bigger than ballet.

Discovering Pilates

During my time at community college, I explored different types of movement—modern dance, hip-hop, yoga, floor barre, and Bartinieff fundamentals. And then, in 1999, I took my first Pilates mat class. Something clicked. The following year, I was introduced to the Reformer, and my world changed forever.

This machine helped me understand my body in a way I never thought possible. Pilates provided me with support, clarity, and a sense of sanctuary. But at the time, I didn’t realize just how transformative it would be.

By the time I transferred to Cal State Long Beach as a dance science major, my hip pain—sciatica and piriformis syndrome—had become unbearable. A chiropractor told me that if I kept dancing, I’d likely need a hip replacement by the time I was 40. That was my wake-up call. I had to let go of my identity as a dancer.

But in doing so, I found my true purpose: guiding others in their own healing through movement.

Becoming a Teacher

In 2006, I became a certified Pilates instructor and fully immersed myself in the work. I was obsessed (in the best way!), constantly learning and deepening my understanding. From 2010 to 2020, I had the privilege of training hundreds of teachers worldwide. But my greatest passion has always been working with people who need healing the most—those dealing with back pain, postural issues, pelvic floor dysfunction, scoliosis, mobility challenges, injuries, and post-surgical recovery.

Healing is never a straight line. It’s a journey—one that requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to listen to your body. Over the years, I’ve learned that true healing isn’t about achieving perfect movement; it’s about finding movement that is honest and meaningful for you.

The Magic of Movement

This is what I sensed all those years ago in the dance studio. I never knew exactly where it would lead me, but I’m grateful that it brought me here—to a place where I can help others rediscover their strength, resilience, and connection to their bodies.

If you’re struggling with discomfort or pain, know that you’re not alone. Your body is more powerful than you think. Let’s heal together.