As your teacher will be quick to remind you, focusing on your breathing plays a major role in New York Pilates. Encouraging you to breathe from your belly rather than your chest, New York Pilates connects your breath to the exercise, permitting that inflow of oxygen to better complete every movement. Since you're concentrating therefore strongly on breathing deeply, the mind will benefit from mindfulness, relaxation and stress reduction throughout and after class. Over time, your mind becomes trained to stay more focused not only while working out, but also in your daily life. People who practice New York Pilates typically reap the advantages of these deep breathing exercises, suffering less from anxiety, anger, and even depression.