By Madeline Black

In order to work in a deeper, more expanded way with her clients, Pilates instructor Madeline Black has searched out new ideas and methodologies during her career. This is the second in her series of reviews in which she shares some of the books and resources that have deepened her knowledge and self-practice and have enhanced her teaching beyond Pilates.

If you’re reading this site, you probably don’t need anyone to convince you of the mind-body connection. But your clients might be more skeptical. What if you could hand them a book that makes a strong scientific case for the link? Enter Bruce Lipton, PhD.

Dr. Lipton is an author, former research scientist in cell biology at Stanford University and medical school instructor. His research in cell biology and quantum physics has broken new ground in how science views the role of cells in our health and the power of our mind on the body. In his book, The Biology of Belief, Dr. Lipton explains his research and introduces to us enlightening concepts of cellular life, the impact of the environment in and around our cells, and how we manifest states of well-being or disease.

In the book, Dr. Lipton provides a look at the history of science and how the common belief system in western medicine developed. Traditionally, western science has believed that DNA controls life. Dr. Lipton describes his research, which supports a revolutionary “new biology” where cells can override our genetic code, and explains how it may be possible for us to learn how to control this process with our minds. Through his work, he has come to believe that it is our choices of lifestyle, emotions, thought patterns and beliefs that control our life and our health. The important piece I came away with is that we are not victims of the genetic code and can be empowered in our health. Our health is our choice.

The Biology of Belief has many delightfully written antidotes intertwining how Dr. Lipton’s life changes were an integral part of his process to make his discoveries in science. His reflections on the relationship of how a small cell survives mirrors how we survive in life. The cell becomes not only a metaphor but it is the science of our whole being.

After reading this book, I came to agree that belief systems can affect how we deal with injury or disease. In my practice, clients confide in me about their health issues beyond their muscular skeletal systems. When faced with an illness or injury, a process evolves. I observe their reaction, and I see many people who resign themselves to not being well. They expect a drug will be the cure-all. Then, I see others who empower themselves in their process by making choices such as changing their diet and choosing mindful therapies. They have a strong sense of alignment about their choice, even if other people disagree. Their recovery is faster because of the positive energy present.

I’ve observed that it is key to align your self with your choice by taking the time to track how you are feeling. Is there fear directing your choice and thereby disempowering your ability to make the choice that is moving you toward healing? Positive or negative feelings will impact your cells’ health. Dr. Lipton’s work defines how powerful a role our consciousness can play in the outcome of our healing process. The way we live our life reflects in our cells in a multitude of ways.
 
Editor’s Note:
After reading Madeline’s review, I was fascinated and had to learn more about Dr. Lipton. You can find out more about him and his discoveries here:

• brucelipton.com
• A 2005 SF Gate interview
• Video interviews on YouTube

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Madeline Black has 20 years of Pilates teaching experience and currently directs Studio M in Sonoma, CA. Madeline has a B.S. in PE and Dance from Skidmore College, has ACE, ACSM, Gyrotonic® and PMA certifications, and is currently studying Integrative Manual Therapy. Madeline presents advanced continuing education seminars for Body Mind Spirit Expo, Pilates On Tour and the Pilates Method Alliance, and at studios in around the world.

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