frequently asked questions

"Somatic-oriented" refers to an approach that centers the body (soma) as a key part of how we experience, process, and heal. The word "somatic" comes from the Greek sōma, meaning “body.” In practical terms, a somatic-oriented practice: • Emphasizes awareness of bodily sensations. • Uses movement and posture to explore internal states. • Focuses on regulating the nervous system through breath, pacing, and presence. • Acknowledges that stress, trauma, and emotions can be stored or expressed physically. • Encourages you to trust your own felt sense rather than override it with external cues. In Pilates, this means tuning into how movement feels—not just how it looks—and favoring subtle internal cues and slow pacing.

"Trauma-informed" describes an approach that recognizes the prevalence and impact of trauma and seeks to create safe, supportive, and empowering environments for healing. This includes: Understanding Trauma: Acknowledging that trauma—from abuse to systemic oppression—can affect physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Prioritizing Safety: Creating an environment that supports physical, emotional, and psychological safety. Promoting Choice and Empowerment: Offering options, respecting boundaries, and supporting autonomy. Building Trust: Maintaining clear communication, consistency, and respect. Practicing Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting diverse cultural, historical, and gender contexts. Avoiding Re-traumatization: Designing interactions and practices that minimize triggering past trauma. Justina isn’t a therapist, but as a Trauma-Informed, Somatic-Oriented Pilates Practitioner, she brings sensitivity, flexibility, and presence that support your process. If you’re seeking trauma-centered care, Justina can connect you to trusted resources.

Reach out via email, text, or phone—visit the Contact page on this website to connect. To get started, Justina will schedule a 15-minute phone call to learn about your needs, discuss what’s bringing you to Creative Core, and answer any questions you may have.

Moving slowly in somatic-oriented Pilates serves several key purposes, all rooted in deeper awareness, nervous system regulation, and long-term movement efficiency: 1. Neuromuscular Reeducation • Slow movement gives the brain time to notice, process, and adjust how muscles are activating. • It helps break habitual patterns and retrain more functional ones—essentially rewiring your movement “software.” 2. Enhanced Proprioception • You become more attuned to subtle shifts in weight, alignment, and effort. • This kind of embodiment is difficult to access when moving quickly. 3. Nervous System Regulation • Slow, mindful movement activates the parasympathetic nervous system (“rest and digest”), which supports healing and helps release chronic tension. • It helps clients experiencing pain, trauma, or high stress feel safer in their bodies. 4. Improved Coordination and Control • You consciously organize your movement, refining motor control. • It builds strength that is deeply connected and intelligent—not just forceful. 5. Space for Inquiry • Moving slowly invites curiosity. You might ask, “What happens if I shift my pelvis slightly?” or “Can I do less here?” • That’s central to somatic work—it’s about sensing and learning, not performing.

Justina’s teaching method is designed for one-on-one work. Unlike group classes, where instruction is geared toward the collective, Creative Core offers Justina’s undivided attention to your body. She uses her intuitive and psychic gifts to respond to what your nervous system is communicating in real time. Each session is crafted specifically for you—there’s no pre-written sequence, because every body, nervous system, and soul is unique and ever-evolving.

You might lightly sweat, but that’s not the goal. The focus is on coordination, awareness, and strength—not cardio or calorie-burning. Sweat doesn’t define success here. We engage the core deeply and move with intention, which fosters pain-free, efficient movement.

No. Justina meets you exactly as you are each time you walk into the studio. Every session begins with a check-in, exploring how your body feels on the mat in the present moment. Whether you're feeling tired, energized, or anything in between, there is a movement sequence to support you. Justina’s goal is to help make your body more livable.

If you have a pelvis (that means you), this work is for you. Creative Core welcomes all bodies, shapes, sizes, ages, and abilities. This method offers a new way of moving—one that brings harmony to the body. Justina helps you tune your body so you can do the things you love without pain or injury.

It depends. There’s no one-size-fits-all map to deeper embodiment and presence. This work is personal and evolving. That said, clients who come weekly often see the most profound shifts in awareness and coordination. Justina will collaborate with you to find a rhythm that suits your schedule and needs. After each session, you may receive a personalized write-up to continue the work at home. This movement method can also be used daily, as a warm-up, or as a nervous system regulation practice.

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to stretch and move freely—like what you’d wear for yoga or strength training. Layers are encouraged, as your body will build heat during the session. Please avoid metal buttons, buckles, or zippers, which can damage equipment.

No. There is free 90-minute parking on either side of South Burdick in front of the building.

Life happens! If you’re running late, call Justina at (269) 366-9256. There is a 15-minute grace period, after which the session is considered a late cancellation and will be charged as such. Lost time due to lateness won’t be made up at the end of the session. That said, Creative Core is flexible and will assess situations case by case.

While the full policy is listed on the Terms and Policies page, here’s a summary: Cancellation Policy: Creative Core has a firm 24-hour cancellation policy. You’ll receive a reminder via text or email 24 hours before your appointment. Cancellations made within 24 hours will incur a $15 fee. No-Shows: If you miss your session without notice, you will be charged the full session rate. An invoice will be sent to your email and must be paid before your next session. Exceptions: Creative Core reserves the right to review cases individually and may waive or adjust fees based on the situation. If something unexpected comes up, please reach out by phone, text, or email as soon as possible.

Yes. Packages expire 6 months from the first use. We encourage you to make the most of your sessions! Here’s a reminder of the policy: • Packages expire 6 months after first use. • They are non-transferable and non-refundable. • No extensions will be granted for personal schedule changes, illness, travel, or other events. • Any exceptions must be approved in writing by Creative Core LLC.

Creative Core accepts payment by cash, check, card, Venmo, and Apple Pay. Payment is due at the time of service.