aerial yoga

Aerial yoga is also known as antigravity yoga or aerial yoga. As its name suggests, it's a practice derived from the ancient discipline that originated in India . Therefore, it's also associated with meditation practices from traditional Asian religions. Furthermore, it blends these with ancestral theories of suspension exercises.

You shouldn't confuse it with the so-called aerial dance you might see in some circus shows. In that case, the focus is on pure aesthetic beauty, while in aerial yoga there is an essential component of spirituality . To encourage you to try it, we're going to explain everything you need to know about this discipline.

How is aerial yoga practiced?

The first thing you should know is that aerial yoga enhances and stimulates both the physical and spiritual aspects, and even the emotions. It also harmoniously combines concepts of traditional yoga with other disciplines such as Pilates, gymnastics, dance, and relaxation.

Furthermore, it's suitable for everyone , so you can practice it whether you're a professional athlete or simply enjoy classical yoga. There's no age limit. It's a discipline for all levels. It offers different levels and is also flexible enough to emphasize one or another of its benefits. For example, some aerial yoga exercises are more focused on relaxation, others on toning, and still others on athletic performance.

In fact, you don't even need to be hanging during the entire session, you can take breaks and, above all, adjust your postures. Regarding this, there are three degrees of complexity. Level zero is basic and is for restorative purposes. People with bone or mobility problems can do it. It is also good for pregnant women.

Level one involves performing various poses while remaining in contact with the ground. Level three is the acrobatic level . If you decide to practice it, your body will be suspended in the air or inverted for most of the time—that is, upside down.

The swing

In any case, the common piece of equipment used is the swing . This refers to a wide piece of fabric suspended from the ceiling on which the exercises are performed. As with other sports equipment, more sophisticated swings have appeared over time. Nowadays, you can find non-slip versions or swings made with parachute fabric so they can withstand heavy weights without breaking.

In addition, they now include accessories so you can perform different exercises by placing the fabric in various positions. For example, a multifunctional trapezius strap allows you to do inversion therapy, which decompresses the spine.

Apart from all this, the swing is attached to the ceiling by means of fixings to which the fabric is attached by means of extension straps. This way, you can remove it when you're not using it. But more important than its instruments are the benefits that aerial yoga brings you.

benefits of aerial yoga

Compared to yoga, the ancient discipline from which it originates, this practice is much more recent. However, it also draws inspiration from ancestral knowledge . As we've already mentioned, unlike its older sibling, its exercises are performed while suspended on a swing.

Furthermore, it combines the physical and spiritual with the purely artistic due to its versatility. Therefore, it's also a lot of fun. In fact, those who have started doing it have quickly become hooked. And it also has many health benefits.

This improves certain circulation problems. Since your legs are elevated in the swing, it has a lymphatic drainage effect . This, for example, reduces cellulite . Furthermore, by requiring different movements, it strengthens the spine and relieves back pain. If you have a job where you spend a lot of time sitting, it will be perfect for eliminating muscle tension.

Likewise, like all physical exercise, it improves breathing , but it also strengthens joints and abdominal muscles. Balance and acrobatic exercises are perfect for these muscles. And all this without forcing postures or overloading the muscles.

On the other hand, if you want to lose weight , it's also a perfect discipline. During a fifty-minute session, you can burn around 320 calories , the same as walking briskly for an hour. And, as if that weren't enough, it also helps you redefine your figure. Aerial yoga is also good for muscle rehabilitation therapies.

But this practice also benefits the spirit and mood. Like traditional yoga, it helps reduce stress and anxiety . Furthermore, it improves concentration by promoting a better balance between mind and body. All of this enhances mental clarity and even creativity.

But above all, aerial yoga is a lot of fun . If you try it, you're sure to break out of your usual routine and have a great time. However, if you've never done it before, you should seek the guidance of professional instructors . Because, while you don't need prior training, it's not easy and you could get injured.

Where to practice aerial yoga

In our country, there are many centers where you can enjoy this discipline. In fact, according to its website, the creator of aerial yoga is the Spaniard Rafael Martínez , who registered it as his inventor. However, anyone with the appropriate training can teach sessions of this practice.

Therefore, you can find aerial yoga classes in almost every city in our country. In some, they will be specialized centers , while in others, they will be gyms that include it among their activities. But in any case, you won't have any trouble finding classes in this discipline in your city. What you should check is that the instructor is properly qualified.

In conclusion, aerial yoga is a practice that combines sport and spirituality. It's no coincidence that it originates from the ancient Indian discipline of the same name. It's excellent exercise for your physical and emotional health . But above all, it's a lot of fun and easier than you might think. Give it a try and see for yourself!