What is Aerial Yoga

Aerial yoga, also known as anti gravity yoga, is a new form or variant of yoga. It must not be confused with acro yoga. It has also got nothing to do with the mythical levitating yoga. There is no scientific evidence of yoga helping an individual to levitate. Aerial yoga or anti gravity yoga originated in New York and has since spread out around the world. Technically, aerial yoga combines traditional yoga, dance and pilates. The quintessential element of aerial yoga is the hammock that serves as the pivot.

A Comprehensive Guide to Aerial Yoga

Aerial yoga requires a foundation or pivot. Since the idea is to be suspended in the air and work against gravity, one cannot use a rooted or grounded foundation. Hence, a hammock is to be set up. It must be strong enough to withstand weights of up to 300 kg. To set up a typical silk hammock, you would need a webbing strap, support chains and carabiners. You can buy such hammocks online or at nearby stores and set it up yourself. Studios have such hammocks installed so you can get started immediately. However, aerial yoga is an advanced form so it is not suited for beginners. You should be well versed with yoga and preferably pilates as well before you try aerial yoga.

Aerial yoga or anti gravity yoga is believed to have more benefits than traditional yoga. It has been clinically proven that yoga has the ability to improve overall health, from easing blood pressure to aiding weight loss. Aerial yoga has the same benefits. Additionally, it can increase core strength, endurance and also enhance agility much beyond what typical yoga postures can achieve. Since the body tends to hang freely without any spinal suppression or compression, the various parts are more freewheeling and the whole body has to act as a harmonious whole, the eventual impact of anti gravity yoga or aerial yoga is significantly more life altering.

There are various poses in aerial yoga. Cross positioning is a popular pose, so is star inversion. One legged and bound one legged pigeon poses are also popular. It is best to start practicing aerial yoga in a studio with a trainer. Trying it alone is not recommended, even for those who have apparently mastered traditional yoga or conventional pilates. It is imperative to measure one’s weight and to have a health checkup done before trying aerial yoga.