What Is Aerial Yoga And What Are Its Benefits?
One of the latest yoga forms to hit the market, Aerial Yoga is quite an interesting practice. It combines traditional yoga asanas with aerial acrobatics. Practitioners use silk or sturdy fabric to suspend themselves mid-air. It requires consistent practice to master, but once learned, it significantly improves strength and balance. Some yoga therapists also use aerial yoga as therapeutic yoga.
The strength and versatility of the suspension fabric play a key role in enhancing the yogi’s performance. You’ll also experience less stress on the wrists and knees. In floor-based yoga, certain injuries can impact long-term mobility. If you have knee issues, floor practice may be challenging—making aerial yoga a superior alternative in such cases.
Let’s explore how this unique yoga form can benefit you.
How Is Aerial Yoga Done?
Aerial yoga is practiced using a hammock made of stretchy fabric, typically 6 meters long and 2 meters wide. Some classes use swings made from parachute fabric, which are less stretchable. You may also find frames that allow indoor practice at home. The best use of aerial yoga equipment is by suspending the hammock or swing from the frame.
Aerial silks are essential for many aerial movements. These long fabrics hang from the ceiling and allow for acrobatic poses. Sometimes, hula hoops are also used. You can even practice at home after learning from certified schools. Always ensure your practice area is free of obstructions to avoid injury.
Here are some poses you can learn at one of the best yoga schools in India, Shree Hari Yoga School:
- Full Plank with a Swing/Hammock – Place both feet on the swing or hammock and hands on the floor, directly under your shoulders. Keep your hips at shoulder height and engage your core to maintain a straight lower back.
- Padangushtasana – Stand on one leg and place the other leg on the hammock. Elongate your spine and twist toward the lifted leg. Extend your hands in that direction. The opposite arm should rest outside the fabric.
- Inverted Backbend – Stand in front of the hammock and spread the fabric underneath. Begin to bend backward with arms spread downward for support. The back should fully arch for traction. You’ll feel the stretch in both the upper and lower back.
The possibilities with aerial yoga are vast, offering a wide range of motion using the swing, hammock, and silks. The benefits are countless.
Tips For Beginners
Keep these tips in mind during class or home practice:
- Listen to your body. If a posture feels uncomfortable, inform your instructor immediately.
- Communicate with your teacher. Make sure the sling and rope setup is comfortable. Don’t push yourself—ask for modifications if needed.
- Take it slow. Like other yoga forms, your body needs time to adapt to new movements.
- Trust your instructors. That’s why it’s essential to learn from a certified yoga school. You’ll also receive a Yoga Alliance certification, helpful if you want to teach professionally.
- Most importantly, have fun. Aerial yoga is dynamic and enjoyable. Embrace the experience fully to reap the maximum benefits.
Benefits Of Aerial Yoga
At Shree Hari Yoga School, you’ll practice aerial yoga in a safe and supportive environment. The benefits are many:
- Increased flexibility, balance, and strength
- Improved spinal traction and joint decompression
- Reduced risk of heart disease
- Enhanced calorie burning
- Better mental health and emotional balance
You’ll learn under expert guidance and also gain a deep understanding of the theory behind each pose. The experienced teachers ensure you receive the highest quality training.
This journey is truly exhilarating. Enrol in the course today at Shree Hari Yoga School and enjoy the full range of benefits aerial yoga has to offer.
