As you are reading this, is your back hunched over? Are your shoulders tight? Is your head tilted to one side? Stop. Take a deep breath and "fix" your body. Feel better? Look better?

There, you've just made a "mind-body connection." That is, you've tuned into how body positioning can make a big difference in how you look and feel. Simple modifications done on a regular basis can help improve your appearance and comfort level. This also translates into increased energy, improved athletic performance and reduced injury.

Learning how to control your body through mind cues is not a new concept, but it's certainly a hot area in the exercise world. Below we explain four mind-body fitness options.

Pilates

Origins: Named after Joseph H. Pilates, a carpenter who developed this unique exercise system in 1920s for injured dancers. Today, there are more than 500 Pilates studios across the country as well as numerous instructional videos and how-to books. Sometimes taught under other names such as "the method" or "Re:Ab."

Basic Description: Can be done in two ways: Private lessons on specially designed equipment or a group "mat" class. You won't do a lot of repetitions of each move, but it is intense work even for those who are extremely fit.

Benefits: Creates strength without bulk; lengthens and stretches your muscles as it creates postural awareness. Focuses on the "powerhouse" muscles including the abs, back, glutes and thighs.