Turning a diagnosis into a passion

by Neeva Kedem

When I turned 40, my life took an unexpected turn. I was diagnosed with a serious thyroid disease, and my doctor informed me that I would need to rely on medication for the rest of my life. It was a moment of shock, but deep down, I couldn’t accept that this would be my only path. Instead of resigning myself to this fate, I decided to search for a natural solution. I dove into countless studies, devoured books on holistic health, and completely overhauled my lifestyle. I changed my diet to include whole, nourishing foods, and perhaps most importantly, I returned to my yoga practice with renewed purpose and dedication.

To my amazement, these changes started to make a profound difference. Through mindful movement, meditation, and strengthening my body, I began to feel better—not just physically but emotionally and mentally, too. Over time, my thyroid function improved significantly, and I was able to avoid the lifelong dependency on medication that once seemed inevitable. When I finally visited the specialist, he confirmed that my thyroid disease was completely gone! I was overjoyed and knew I had to share this incredible experience with others. Helping women achieve better health and well-being became my life’s mission. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of helping countless women transform their lives, empowering them to become healthier, stronger, and happier!

This personal journey not only restored my health but also deepened my commitment to helping other women discover the transformative power of yoga and Pilates.

As a yoga and Pilates instructor for over 15 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how these practices can be life-changing for women, especially as they navigate the physical and emotional challenges that often arise with age. Pilates and yoga are not just about physical fitness; they are tools for holistic well-being. For women over 40, these practices can address key health concerns, such as improving bone density, enhancing flexibility, and building core strength, which supports posture and reduces the risk of injuries. They also play a vital role in hormonal balance, stress reduction, and emotional resilience.

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One of my students, Sarah, came to me with chronic back pain that had plagued her for years. She had tried everything—physical therapy, painkillers, even surgery consultations—but nothing provided lasting relief. Together, we worked on a tailored Pilates and yoga program that focused on strengthening her core, improving her posture, and releasing tension in her back. Over the course of several months, Sarah not only found relief from her pain but also regained her confidence and energy. Today, she tells me that she feels stronger and more vibrant in her 50s than she did in her 30s.

What makes Pilates and yoga so effective for women is their adaptability. These practices can be modified to suit any fitness level or health condition, making them accessible to everyone. They also empower women to take control of their health in a way that is gentle yet powerful By focusing on mindful movement and breath, women can reconnect with their bodies, nurture their emotional well-being, and build strength from the inside out

For me, teaching yoga and Pilates is not just a career—it’s a calling. I am passionate about creating a safe and supportive space where women can prioritize their health and wellbeing. Whether it’s a woman recovering from surgery, managing stress, or simply looking to feel stronger and more balanced, I’ve seen these practices transform lives time and time again.

If there’s one message I want to share with women everywhere, it’s this: your health is your greatest investment. No matter where you are on your journey, it’s never too late to take that first step. Yoga and Pilates offer not just a path to physical strength but also a way to cultivate inner peace and resilience. And as my own journey has taught me, the body has an incredible ability to heal when we give it the tools and attention it deserves. So, roll out your mat, take a deep breath, and join me in discovering the power of movement, mindfulness, and self-care!

After years of teaching both yoga and Pilates, I developed a unique approach called Shelates. This fusion of yoga and Pilates was specifically designed with women in mind, blending the strength and flexibility of yoga with the corefocused, toning principles of Pilates.

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Shelates offers a dynamic and holistic workout that empowers women to build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance mind-body connection in a balanced and accessible way. We focus on pelvic floor strengthening, thyroid stimulation to promote healthier metabolism, and meditation practices to release stress. Additionally, Shelates supports hormonal balance, making it not only an effective workout but also a nurturing practice for overall well-being.

Neeva Kedem

RYT, Yoga, Fitness & Pilates Teacher

Head Instructor at SHE Pilates & Yoga 3910 Bathurst St. 4th Floor, #405, North York (Toronto) https://www.shepilatesandyoga.com/