What is Aerial Yoga and what are the benefits?

What is Aerial Yoga and what benefits does it offer?

After nearly a year of saying I would try an Aerial Yoga class, I eventually decided to give it a go.

Also known as Anti Gravity Yoga, Aerial Yoga was created in New York by Christopher Harrison, a former dancer with a background in acrobatic performance. The practice involves moving within a suspended hammock, blending Yoga with disciplines including Pilates, dance and acrobatics.

Benefits include:

• Greater core strength
• Improved flexibility in the spine and shoulders
• Less back pain
• Increased blood flow, benefiting the circulatory system
• Support for the lymphatic system
• Moving beyond your comfort zone, which improves neural functioning
• A full-body workout

I went to my first Aerial Yoga session late on a Sunday afternoon at Shakti Yoga, where Kevin Perlin led the class. As it happened, it was a full moon session. The format combined Yin Aerial Yoga with a Yoga nidra practice afterwards, making it an ideal first experience.

It would be difficult to imagine a better introduction to the art of practising Yoga in a hammock. Believe me, this practice is a true art form.

Everything had been considered with great care, from guidance on getting into the ‘hammock’ to the playlist and the generally playful way of approaching suspension.

It is remarkable how aerial yoga exposes everyday muscular and flexibility imbalances. The contrasts within your own body become apparent very quickly, even more so than during a standard Yin practice. The hammock serves as an excellent ‘prop’ for this.

As soon as you understand that the silk hammock can support your entire body weight, it becomes easier to relax and move with greater confidence.

This is particularly true during the Yoga nidra practice. Being completely suspended and cocooned in the silk hammock while listening to the Nidra script feels deeply relaxing and restorative.

If you feel especially anxious, ask the teacher whether your hammock can be positioned slightly closer to the floor.

A few do’s and don’ts before attending an Aerial Yoga class:

• Do arrive well hydrated
• Avoid jewellery or watches that could catch on the silk hammock
• Be truthful about your experience level
• Follow the teacher’s instructions and do not attempt to miss out a step
• Choose close-fitting clothes with sleeves if you have sensitive skin, to avoid chafing
• Give yourself permission to relax and enjoy the playful movements
• Find a teacher you trust and like, as I did
• Bring a friend – it is always much more enjoyable

Kevin runs a weekly Monday evening class at Shakti Yoga.