Aerial yoga is the literal meaning of the term aerial yoga. What exactly does it consist of? When did it originate? Who invented it? How is it performed and is it suitable training for everyone? Our article will answer these questions.
In recent years yoga has become one of the most popular forms of exercise. Traditional yoga, associated with Hindu spirituality, spread throughout the world over the centuries, began to take on varied forms. One of the modern versions of yoga, which is increasingly popular in Poland, is aerial yoga
How was aerial yoga created?
Aerial yoga was initiated in 2006 by a New York acrobat and dancer, Michelle Dortignac, who, inspired by exercises from the East, combined them with aerial gymnastics, adding elements of stretching, fitness and dance. The aerial yoga workout takes place in a hammock suspended from the ceiling. The idea of Dortignac was positively received and aerial yoga spread around the world quite quickly.
What is aerial yoga?
As mentioned above, aerial yoga combines elements of yoga with aerial gymnastics, stretching, fitness and dance. The exercises are performed in a special yoga hammock, otherwise known as a yoga sling, which is made of skin-friendly material. The hammock is hung on a hook under the ceiling – proper installation is very important for our safety.
Performing asanas in the air can be a bit more complicated than their traditional form – during aerial yoga movement coordination is very important. At the beginning exercises are performed in contact with the floor. When we feel a little more confident in the hammock and our skills will increase, the hammock itself will be suspended higher and the exercises will start to take place completely in the air. With advancement, more and more difficult asanas appear in the training, which when performed in the air are incredibly impressive.
What are the benefits of aerial yoga?
Like traditional yoga, aerial yoga is relaxing, calms the mind, stretches and strengthens the body. It is also an effective way to reduce stress. By exercising in the air, we can significantly improve our motor coordination. It is also indicated that such exercises positively affect blood circulation and oxygenation of the brain. Aerial yoga also helps to evenly sculpt the figure – training in a hammock requires the involvement of all body muscles.
Is aerial yoga suitable for everyone?
Although you will come across opinions on the Internet that aerial yoga is a workout that is good for everyone, this is actually not true. Trainers indicate that not everyone can take up aerial exercise. Contraindications include people with ailments such as:
- heart disease,
- blood pressure problems,
- osteoporosis,
- glaucoma,
- spinal injuries,
- sinusitis,
- carpal tunnel syndrome,
- arthritis.
Aerial yoga workouts should also not be undertaken by pregnant women and people who are about to undergo surgery. Aerial exercises, performed in an inverted position, are also not recommended for menstruating ladies.
mAIN PHOTO: Benjamin Wedemeyer/unsplash.com
