Pilates Soulful Sunday: The Power of Hello

A vintage rotary telephone reminding us how the word hello began connecting the world.

We say it every day. It opens our classes, our conversations, our connections. Hello. A word so familiar we rarely pause to consider it. But it holds more meaning than we might realise, especially in a world where human connection is more valuable than ever.

Where Did Hello Come From

Despite the popular myth, hello is not the name of Alexander Graham Bell’s fiancée. His wife was named Mabel. Nor was it the first word spoken on the telephone. That honour belongs to Bell’s now famous phrase:“Mr Watson, come here, I want to see you.”

The real credit for popularising hello goes to Thomas Edison. He suggested it as the standard telephone greeting. Bell preferred the more nautical “Ahoy,” but it was hello that stuck and became the universal opener for phone calls and beyond.

Why Hello Matters

Hello is more than a greeting. It is an invitation. It says “I see you.” Whether spoken in a studio, in a Zoom class, or written in an email, hello bridges the space between people. It sets the tone. It opens the door.

As Pilates teachers, our hello carries weight. It is the moment that begins the journey of the session. It can create ease, foster trust, and build rapport. That simple word is often the first connection we make with a client, and that connection can shape the entire experience.

How We Say It Today

In modern communication, hello comes in many forms. We might say hi or hey. We might write good morning or use emojis and voice notes. But regardless of the format, the essence is the same. Hello is a beginning.

It is a signal of presence. And in a world where so much is fast and fleeting, taking the time to say hello with meaning can feel like an anchor.

Saying Hello

On this Soulful for Sunday, reflect on your hello. How do you greet your clients. How do you open your day. Is your hello rushed or thoughtful. Is it automatic or intentional.

Perhaps this week the solution is not something complex. Perhaps it starts with one simple word spoken with presence. Hello.