Flexiflow Lesson: Introducing Aerial Yoga

Aerial yoga is a relatively new and exciting form of yoga that combines traditional yoga poses with the use of a hammock or sling suspended from the ceiling. This unique style of yoga provides practitioners with a range of benefits, including improved flexibility, balance, strength, and body awareness. In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of aerial yoga and provide some beginner exercises to get you started.

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What is Aerial Yoga?

Aerial Yoga is practiced in studios, gyms, and other fitness facilities around the world. Practitioners of aerial yoga report a range of benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, balance, body awareness, and mental well-being.

Aerial yoga is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, although it is important for beginners to work with a qualified instructor to ensure proper alignment and safety. The practice can be modified to suit individual needs and abilities, making it a versatile form of yoga that can be tailored to meet the needs of each practitioner.

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Benefits of Aerial Yoga

1. Increased Flexibility: Aerial yoga allows you to perform yoga poses with greater ease and range of motion. The hammock provides support and helps to decompress the spine, allowing for deeper stretches and improved flexibility.

2. Improved Balance: Aerial yoga challenges your balance and stability as you perform poses while suspended in the air. The practice can help to improve your overall balance and body awareness.

3. Increased Strength: Aerial yoga requires a significant amount of strength, particularly in the core and upper body. Regular practice can help to build strength and tone muscles.

4. Reduced Stress: Aerial yoga encourages mindfulness and present-moment awareness, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

5. Improved Posture: Aerial yoga can help to improve your posture by increasing your body awareness and strengthening the muscles that support proper alignment.

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Beginner Aerial Yoga Exercises

1. Hammock Hang: Stand facing the hammock and grab onto it with both hands. Lean back and allow your body to hang freely. Hold for 30 seconds and then release.

2. Forward Fold: Standing facing the hammock, step one foot into the hammock and lift the other foot off the ground. Lean forward and allow your body to hang, using the hammock to support your weight. Hold for 30 seconds and then switch sides.

3. Downward Dog: Stand facing the hammock and place your hands on the ground in front of the hammock. Step one foot into the hammock and lift the other foot off the ground. Walk your hands back towards the hammock and lift your hips up into downward dog. Hold for 30 seconds and then switch sides.

4. Warrior II: Stand facing the hammock and place your hands on the hammock. Step one foot back into a lunge position and turn your back foot perpendicular to your front foot. Lift your arms up into warrior II pose. Hold for 30 seconds and then switch sides.

5. Shavasana: Sit in the hammock with your back supported and your legs stretched out in front of you. Close your eyes and relax for several minutes.

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Aerial yoga is a fun and innovative way to practice yoga that provides a range of benefits for both the mind and body. By incorporating a hammock or sling into your practice, you can improve your flexibility, balance, strength, and body awareness. With these beginner exercises, you can start your aerial yoga journey and experience the many benefits of this unique and exciting form of yoga.