Graduate Highlight: Ianthe Basson


Ianthe Basson is a Polestar practitioner and Pilates instructor in Cape Town South Africa

In your own words – describe “the Spirit of Polestar”

IB: The spirit of Polestar is like nothing else I’ve ever experienced before! An experience filled with love and free from judgment, an experience filled with compassion and nurturing, an experience of community, and a warm welcome, and experience of encouragement and safe expression. It’s like nothing else I’ve experienced before within the realms of Pilates education.

What do you love about teaching Pilates?

IB: I love that I am able to share my passion for healing through Pilates and all things movement with others and being witness to life-changing experiences every day!

Where did you take your Training and who was the educator?

IB: I completed the Polestar Transition Intensive Course at the Southwind Retreat farm with Shelly and Brent as my educators.

What are your current Inspirations? 

IB: Too many to list! However, if I had to choose 3 – Learning as much as I can from other movement professionals so that I am able to assist more people on their movement wellness journeys; Creating global change in communities through the power of Pilates and movement; I’m also inspired by those who have overcome and gone through extremely difficult circumstances, those who have been brave and courageous enough in choosing to move through these events with grace and acceptance. I love that I am able to learn, grow, expand, and experience inspirations as this allows me to live a fuller, happier, deeper, and more meaningful purpose on this earth.

Why Pilates? How did you find the practice?

IB: Well is there anything else? (Smiling ear to ear) Jokes aside, I honestly couldn’t see myself doing anything else after I stopped dancing full time. I discovered the Pilates method while studying dance and musical theater back in 1998. The changes I experienced in my own body were remarkable!

What do you hope to convey in your teaching?

IB: That anybody and everybody and is able to experience positive change in their lives. I love empowering others to feel and live the change which they have gifted themselves by participating in Pilates lessons and classes. We are able to integrate what we learn in the studio and allow this to create positive outcomes in all areas of our lives.

What is your favorite Quote? 

IB: “One day at a time”. It is the absolute embodiment for me on a deeply personal level. As an individual living in recovery from alcohol addiction this quote serves as a daily reminder for my personal story and for this, I am truly grateful and blessed.

What is your Favorite Apparatus or favorite way to move?

IB: Lots of flowing please! Dancing almost always wins. I feel freedom and freedom to be me when dancing or experiencing flowing movement.


You can find Ianthe on social media @ianthebasson

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