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About me

I am Mayke - in Spain called Micky - from The Netherlands, currently living on La Gomera. After living most of my life in Amsterdam, I longed to live closer to nature, a warmer climate and a bit away from busy Dutch life.

 

Being a photographer, I went to La Gomera for the first time in 2011 to start my photo project called Fable of the forest. The magical island stole my heart and I moved there some years later. I really enjoy living here: outside all year round, no need for winter coats and heaters. people who are not in a hurry. Meeting friends on the street for a drink instead of planning weeks before. On free days making walks in the forest and mountains or hanging on the beach…and yes, sometimes missing the energy and inspiration of Amsterdam and its people.

 

Before moving to La Gomera I followed the Pilates Teacher Training at BASI PILATES-Amsterdam (mat repertoire) to give Pilates classes besides my work as an artist.

 

But….life took an unexpected turn 7 years ago when 30 years of back pain ended in not able to walk anymore for a period of time. I made the decision to change my life: leaving my profession as a photographer and dedicating my time solely to Pilates and Mindfulness and thus hopefully having no or less back pain. Since 1,5 year I am pain free.

 

Because of my own history, training safely—particularly for individuals with lower back issues or other physical challenges—is one of the key focus points in my Pilates classes. Special attention is given to improving posture and body mechanics to promote more efficient, pain-free movement in daily life.

 

I followed the Mindfulness Teacher Training Program with BREATHWORKS (Manchester). This organisation is globally recognised for their Mindfulness courses for Chronic Pain / Health and Stress.

Besides Mindfulness being a help in reducing my back pain, it makes me enjoying life more.

 

Half a year ago I started little by little again with making new artworks. You can see the ongoing project la Gomera - Fable of the forest and other works on my website maykeswemle.com.

 

Whatever I do -Pilates, Mindfulness or photography- it comes from the heart and all my passion is in it.

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© 2024 Micky's pilates and mindfulness / Mayke Swemle

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