Hidden Gems: Meet Marisa Oldefest of Peace Of Mind Pilates

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marisa Oldefest

Hi Marisa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was introduced to Pilates decades ago at a Physical Therapy clinic. I was receiving PT and Massage therapy for a neck injury from an auto accident. I had been in chronic pain for 2 years. After 30 minutes on the Pilates reformer I began to feel relief from my neck pain. In my first Pilates private session I learned from my instructor some valuable tools to help correct my posture and alleviate my pain. I quickly found a Pilates teacher training program and began my Pilates Teacher journey. Shortly after receiving my Pilates training I attended massage school and became a licensed massage therapist.
27 years later I am just as passionate about sharing the healing benefits of Pilates with my clients. I started Peace Of Mind Pilates, formerly know as Peace Of Mind Bodywork in 2000 and am thankful to be celebrating 25 years in business in 2025!
In 2020 I became an instructor affiliate with Core Compassion Project, a 501(c)3 that provides scholarships for breast cancer recovery. We provide Pilates Rehabilitative sessions, Lymphedema sleeves and Post surgical fitness bras to our recipients at no cost to them. We are reliant on our fundraisers to be able to support women during their breast cancer rehabilitation.
In 2022 I became a Cancer Exercise Specialist and am training in all types of cancer, the surgeries involved to treat them as well as medications prescribed. I am able to structure a Pilates rehabilitative/fitness program to safely and effectively help cancer survivors build strength in their bodies and confidence to move again.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest challenge so far was moving into my first brick and mortar location March 1 2020, having brand new Pilates equipment delivered on March 12 and then going into shut down due to covid on March 16th!
Thankful for my dedicated clientele who quickly learned Zoom and began taking online Pilates classes with me.

As you know, we’re big fans of Peace Of Mind Pilates. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We are a boutique Pilates studio and a sanctuary where individuals, especially those facing injury, cancer or other challenges can find healing and empowerment. Our personalized approach to Pilates and calm, non-judgemental environment create a safe space for clients to rediscover their minds and bodies. We believe Pilates is for everyone, regardless of their backround or current health status.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I am not much of a risk taker. The biggest risk I took was moving my Pilates business out of my home studio where I was working one on one with clients into a large studio space.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.peaceofmindpilates.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaceofmindpilates/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peaceofmindpilates/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@peaceofmindpilates9561

Image Credits
Pink Poppy Media