Pilates, Breath, and True Core Stability

Pilates, Breath, and Chiropractic Harmony: A Total Human Protocol Podcast with Michelle Johnson

In a recent episode of the Total Human Protocol Podcast, host Dr. Matt sat down with Michelle Johnson, a nationally certified Pilates instructor, to unpack the deeper science behind Pilates, and why it’s become such a vital piece of care at Total Human Protocol and 918 Chiropractic in Tulsa.

Michelle’s story is as inspiring as it is practical. After spending 30 years as a dental hygienist, repetitive strain and chronic pain nearly ended her career. But Pilates didn’t just help her recover, it completely transformed her life. Today, she helps others achieve the same kind of healing and strength through customized, clinically informed Pilates instruction.

Tulsa’s Core: Michelle Johnson, NCPT

Michelle’s story is as inspiring as it is practical. After spending 30 years as a dental hygienist, repetitive strain and chronic pain nearly ended her career. But Pilates didn’t just help her recover, it completely transformed her life. Today, she helps others achieve the same kind of healing and strength through customized, clinically informed Pilates instruction.

Michelle’s Journey: From Dentistry to Pilates Healing

Michelle’s transition into Pilates wasn’t a career move—it was survival. Years of hunching over patients left her with debilitating pain and numbness in her hands. Traditional approaches failed, but Pilates restored her mobility, eliminated her symptoms, and gave her another seven years in dentistry before she fully pivoted to teaching.

Now, she applies her scientific, results-driven mindset to every session. As she puts it:

“I’m not doing Instagram-style Pilates. I’m treating the individual in front of me.”

The Science of the “Three Cores”

Pilates at Total Human Protocol goes far beyond abs and stretching. Michelle and Dr. Matt discussed the idea of the body having three cores:

• Upper Core – spanning the upper back and thoracic spine.
• Central Core – running from the thoracic spine to the pelvis.
• Lower Core – hips, glutes, and supporting muscles.

The goal isn’t “balance” but harmony—just like a symphony that sometimes needs more horns and sometimes more drums. When these three cores work together, the body moves with strength, stability, and longevity.

Breathing: The Foundation of True Core Stability

Joseph Pilates built his original method on one thing: breath control. And as Michelle explains, proper exhalation is what unlocks deep core activation.

“Breath is life. Without it, the rest of the core chain can’t fire properly.” – Michelle Johnson

• From scoliosis patients to athletes, learning to breathe correctly restores rib cage mobility, stabilizes the spine, and prevents compensatory injuries. Advanced methods like the Schroth Method and one-lung breathing show just how powerful intentional breathwork can be for spinal realignment and postural correction.

The Power of Collaboration: Chiropractic Meets Pilates

What sets the Total Human Protocol approach apart is the integration of chiropractic imaging, and Pilates instruction.

If Michelle notices something concerning, clients can receive x-rays and chiropractic assessments on the spot. This collaboration eliminates guesswork and ensures that movement protocols are not only effective but safe.

“Without imaging, unseen limitations may go unnoticed. Customization is what makes healing possible.” – Dr. Matt

Real-Life Transformation: Duncan’s Story

One of Michelle’s standout success stories is Duncan, a 76-year-old client who came in with severe imbalances and pain. Through consistent Pilates and chiropractic collaboration, Duncan not only eliminated pain but began performing movements most men half his age struggle with, including one-arm push-ups.

Stories like Duncan’s highlight why customized care matters. Unlike one-size-fits-all group classes, and "instagram pilates",  tailored programs informed by clinical insights create sustainable change and lasting vitality.

Why It Matters for Tulsa’s Health Community

At Total Human Protocol, Pilates is not a trend, it’s a science-backed, individualized method for helping people heal, move, and thrive.

Whether you’re recovering from pain, dealing with scoliosis, or simply looking to move better, Michelle and Dr. Matt’s conversation shows why pairing Pilates with chiropractic care can be life-changing.

As Dr. Matt summed up beautifully:

“Harmony, not balance. Sometimes you need more drums, sometimes more horns—it’s the same in the body.”

Ready to Experience True Core Strength & Body Harmony?

If you’re curious about how Pilates and chiropractic care can transform your health, reach out today to discover your unique protocol.

Every program is customized, clinically informed, and built to help you move at your best.

Tulsa residents searching for chiropractic care, or Pilates benefits- this integrated approach is here for you.

Ready to experience the benefits of chiropractic care and corrective soft tissue therapy in Tulsa?

Visit Total Human Protocol and see how our integrated approach can help you reach your health and performance goals. Fill out our form to get started!