‘Life of Taheerah’ Equals Pilates, Style and Fun.

‘Life of Taheerah’ as her Instagram says, may be just about the perfect way to start this introduction.  Let me just say Taheerah Salim will breathe new life into you through her zest for living HER best life every day. She is that warm ray of sunshine that comforts and strengthens without blinding you into wanting to shut the shades and roll back over lol. I often say to people ‘let your light shine.’ She does that while at the same time helping others to remember and strengthen their own inner light by guiding them as they work to get stronger both mentally and physically.   I have known her for years and she is just one of those special people that lights up the room with her smile. If you don’t believe me check out one of her classes for yourself or just follow her Instagram page. You’ll see what I’m talking about pretty quickly. The owner of ‘Sound Mind’ started teaching in 2001. Her certification is through the Physical Mind Institute.

Now let me just say sometimes I am not the most coordinated so I get how walking into a Pilates studio can be a little intimidating.  Especially if you haven’t used all the equipment before and you see all these new contraptions hanging around with no clue what they do or how to use them. Don’t think you’re alone in ever feeling a little overwhelmed when trying something new lol.

But if you are walking in to meet Taheerah, there is an instant sense of comfort and excitement about what you may soon learn and how it could help you feel better and get stronger. From what I’ve experienced, the movements used in Pilates seem to stretch and strengthen without anything too high impact.  But make no mistake, your body gets challenged with a focus on the core that will have you sweating in no time.

I did a class with her during a fundraiser with some friends of mine. One of the things I Iove about her in this environment is her ability to put everyone at ease. So if you’re new, she makes you feel like an old friend and if you are more experienced she somehow keeps you working at your level while being patient and meticulous but not overbearing. She creates an environment that is supportive and encouraging. If you have an injury everything can be modified but not in a way that makes you feel weak of called out in front of people. She just explains what each exercise is and how it will help you and how to make it work for you. She also makes sure you understand the importance of doing the exercises correctly.  She has a style that is both fierce and kind.

I caught up with her on a Friday morning at Total Pilates Studio in Tulsa. She was working with two ladies in a small class. She kept them on point, guiding them through their exercises while also laughing and smiling making everyone enjoy the experience that much more. She made subtle form corrections that can be the difference between going through the motions and really being in tune with your body.  It’s fun to watch her knowing she takes such pride in helping people who want to live a healthier life. Both women seemed to relish in their time with her. I think because I’ve known her so long, seeing her in her element just makes me even more proud to have her as a friend. But that’s not the reason for this piece. This piece is about a beautiful woman who takes care of herself mentally and physically so she can continue to support others on their own journey toward a more robust and full life.