Aerial Reverse Gravity Yoga North East
Ever dreamed of being able to fly? Take your exercise regime to new heights with Aerial Yoga!
What is Aerial Yoga?
Aerial yoga is performed in mid-air, using a low hanging fabric swing, similar to a hammock, which supports the body weight. This makes it easier to go deeper into yoga positions and hold them for a longer period of time. The various postures are practiced whilst suspended a few inches from the ground. With the weight of the body supported, the body has to learn to align itself correctly due to the effects of gravity.
Proper postural alignment is achieved via relaxation rather than effort, thereby enhancing a relaxed state of mind. Yoga is generally known as being a good stress reliever with the promotion of inner peace. The reverse gravity effects actually make letting go an easier process. The reverse gravity effect relieves joint compression, the spine is elongated and the shoulders straightened.
Traditional yoga practice is enhanced as postures involving backbends and inversions can be achieved without the strain and effort by using the hammock. Deeper stretches can be achieved in the air due to the muscular release, than traditionally experienced on the floor. Exercises strengthen the shoulders without compromising flexibility, therefore reducing the injury risk often caused by overstretching the shoulders on the mat.
Who is this technique suitable for?
Aerial yoga is not just for those who are physically able. This type of Yoga is easily adapted to suit all fitness levels and is therefore suitable for most people.
Aerial yoga is not recommended for pregnant women or those who have had eye surgery or glaucoma. It is not advised for those suffering from vertigo or high blood pressure.
What to expect in a typical class
Initially, students spend time using the hammocks, as well as on the mat. Once students understand that they are only a few inches off the ground with mats underneath them, it becomes easier to trust the equipment and confidence grows.
By initially combining traditional yoga on the mat with aerial yoga, students achieve the immediate benefits of spinal decompression as well as a better understanding of alignment when performing their yoga postures on the floor.
Using the swing releases tension from your spine and helps you to keep the correct alignment whilst strengthen your muscles. With the yoga swing you will practice coordination, balance, strength, stamina, stability and flexibility all at the same time and that stimulates your mind.
As you become more confident and experienced with time, the postures become more advanced and complex and may be held for longer.
It’s important to have faith in your instructor and trust the hammock. Maintain an open mind and your experience will be enhanced.
Benefits
- Spinal decompression via traction
- Increased muscular flexibility
- Increased core control
- Improved muscular strength
- Increased joint mobility and range of movement
- Increased stamina and cardiovascular efficiency
- Improved motor skills (balance and coordination)
- Zero compression inversions
- Stimulation of lymphatic and circulatory systems
- Increased kinesthetic awareness
- Reduction in stress
- Increased agility
Aerial Reverse-Gravity Yoga Beginners Workshops
If you want to try out a taster session for this fantastic method, then why not book onto one of our beginners workshops. See our homepage for current dates.
