Pilates and Functional Neurological Disorder (FND): Moving with Calm, Control and Confidence
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects how the brain and body communicate. Symptoms can include muscle weakness, tremors, movement difficulties, sensory changes, and episodes of dissociation or non-epileptic seizures. These experiences are real, distressing, and can significantly impact day-to-day life.
At NeuroPilates Method, we offer tailored Pilates-based movement therapy to support people living with FND. Our gentle, evidence-informed approach helps clients rebuild trust in their bodies, reduce symptom severity, and regain confidence in movement—without fear or overwhelm.
Understanding FND: It’s Real and It’s Treatable
FND is a condition where the nervous system is not functioning as it should, despite no clear structural damage. It sits at the intersection of neurology and psychology, with symptoms often triggered or worsened by stress, past trauma, or disruptions in how the brain processes movement and sensation.
Common symptoms of FND may include:
Limb weakness or paralysis
Functional tremors or jerky movements
Gait or balance disturbances
Functional seizures (non-epileptic)
Speech difficulties or sensory changes
Fatigue and cognitive fog
Although the cause isn’t always clear, research shows that FND is treatable, especially when clients receive care from professionals who understand both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition.
Why Pilates? A Mindful, Movement-Based Approach
Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise that focuses on breath, body awareness, posture, and gentle strength training. For individuals with FND, Pilates provides a safe and empowering environment to:
Reconnect the brain and body through intentional, functional movement
Improve postural control, coordination and balance
Reduce fear and anxiety around movement
Promote relaxation and nervous system regulation
Increase physical confidence and independence
Unlike high-intensity workouts or complex rehab routines, Pilates is slow, adaptable, and supportive—making it an ideal form of movement for those living with functional symptoms.
Movement Without Pressure
A key principle of working with FND is moving without fear or performance pressure. At NeuroPilates Method, we:
Start with a thorough assessment to understand your symptoms, triggers and goals
Use calm, structured movement sequences designed to re-establish motor control
Focus on what your body can do, rather than pushing into discomfort or overload
Incorporate mindfulness, breathwork, and yoga therapy principles to support emotional regulation and body awareness
Progress at your pace—with no pressure to achieve or “fix” anything overnight
We understand that symptom severity can vary from day to day. Our programs are flexible and responsive to your energy levels, emotional state, and confidence in the moment.
Neuroplasticity and FND Recovery
One of the reasons Pilates is so effective for FND is that it supports neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire and form new connections. By practising safe, repetitive movements in a relaxed state, the nervous system can begin to relearn more functional movement patterns.
This process is often supported further by:
Education around FND to reduce fear and uncertainty
Psychological support (e.g., working with a psychologist or neuropsychiatrist)
Multidisciplinary care, where allied health providers work together toward shared goals
Pilates acts as the movement-based pillar in this recovery approach—helping clients reconnect with their bodies in a non-threatening, empowering way.
What a Pilates Session for FND Looks Like
Our sessions are individualised and trauma-informed. You can expect:
A calm, quiet environment
A strong focus on breathing, grounding and posture
Use of equipment such as mats, foam rollers, resistance bands and small props to support movement
Slow, deliberate exercises tailored to your symptom profile
Clear, supportive instruction with options for rest, pacing and modification
We also integrate gentle yoga therapy techniques to support nervous system regulation and help shift out of fight-or-flight responses that may worsen symptoms.
What Our Clients Say
Many of our clients with FND have told us they feel:
More confident walking and moving
Less fearful of triggering symptoms
Calmer and more in control of their body
Reconnected with their strength and physical capability
Validated, heard, and supported
They also appreciate the holistic and non-judgemental approach we bring to every session. For people who have spent years searching for answers or feeling dismissed, this can be a game-changer.
We Understand FND—and We’re Here to Help
Living with FND can be overwhelming, frustrating and isolating—but with the right support, recovery is possible. At NeuroPilates Method, we understand the unique challenges of this condition and provide a safe, structured path forward using movement, education, and empathy.
Our goal is to help you feel more confident in your body, more connected to your breath, and more in control of your movement—one session at a time.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today to learn more about our Pilates-based programs for people living with Functional Neurological Disorder. We offer individual sessions and small group options in a supportive, sensory-friendly environment.
