Aerial yoga
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Aerial yoga is a variation of the traditional yoga that facilitates the performance of the asanas (yoga postures) in mid-air. Its primary principle is to counteract the effects of gravity on the body. Unlike traditional yoga which is performed on the floor, aerial yoga is performed while the body is suspended a few inches off the ground.
Michelle Dortignac of New York City, USA created the most popular form of aerial yoga, called Unnataâ„¢ Aerial Yoga. She started teaching it in January 2006. As a yoga instructor, and also a professional aerialist, she combined traditional yoga with the circus art of Tissu (Silks). Using a hammock-like apparatus as a trapeze to lift the body off the floor, the suspension in mid-air frees the body from the tension caused by gravity.
Also, the downward pull of gravity compels the body to learn proper alignment. By relieving compression due to the pull of gravity while on the ground, the spine is elongated and the shoulders straightened. The few inches of suspension in the air releases tension on the bones and muscles, increasing flexibility.
Aerial yoga, while being one of the recently developed variations of yoga, adheres to traditional objectives of physical and spiritual mastery and the pursuit of inner peace. Gravity, in fact, makes letting go easier.
Among many benefits, Aerial Yoga strengthens core muscles and the shoulders, increases spinal and shoulder flexibility, and prevents back strain.