Makiko opened a Pilates studio in January 2000, on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, after working at a prior Pilates studio for some time.  

Her instruction style was based on her Japanese Samurai heritage which had helped her clients improve their posture.  Her Posture Healing approach successfully treated backache, neck & shoulder problems, which were prevalent in the NY area. Additionally, her approach gained popularity among those seeking a proper recovery after hip and knee surgeries.

Her clients realized that Makiko’s unique approach differed from the typical Pilates instructions. So her clients suggested calling it the Makiko Method. Then Makiko began to focus on creating Posture improvement exercises.

In March 2008, Natural Healing Artists, Inc. was established, and Makiko moved her office to Union Square.

Makiko has continued to develop the Makiko Method – Posture Balance approach while continuing to expand her unique healing practice, for over 25 years. 

In early 2025, Natural Healing Artists, Inc., continued its growth by collaborating with Infinite Space NYC. 

Please see Makiko Oka’s Bio on the ABOUT page.