Aerial Yoga - a fun & therapeutic practice for every body.

A regular yoga practice can support students both psychologically and physically. Unnata Aerial yoga is a unique style of yoga that brings forth elements of detoxification, playfulness, trust and surrender, to name a few. Like any yoga practice, aerial yoga can be a physically challenging practice, a deeply restorative practice or anything in between, depending on your individual needs. Below are some of the benefits of aerial yoga: 

Psychologically both breathing and movement are practiced in a mindful way that facilitates relaxation and grounding, as well as strengthening focus and concentration. Anyone dealing with chronic illness, such as cancer, and the associated treatments, surgery, fatigue, and generally finding ones’ way through the medical system, can experience the deeply empowering and supportive practice of yoga. Through breath work, movement and surrender, aerial yoga can help cultivate a deep sense of connection with your body while also offering a way to take an active role in your recovery process and overall well-being. Stress is a key component in managing any health condition. Yoga practice helps students learn to better manage stress and, therefore, support the recovery process in a grounded, authentic way.

Physiological benefits are far reaching and include increased immune digestive, respiratory and endocrine function as well as lymphatic detoxification and strengthening and stretching the musculo-skeletal system. All forms of exercise are inherently detoxifying as the lymph and blood are pumped via muscle flexion and increased circulation. Aerial yoga is no exception and enhances the detoxifying properties by gently massaging the lymph nodes and making inversions accessible without stress or pressure on the joints. Lymphatic drainage assists in purifying the body from every day toxins in our modern world including chemicals often used in cancer treatment.

Deep breathing combined with improved circulation increases the oxygen-rich blood flow to cells replacing toxins with much needed nutrients.

Balanced movements help increase or restore strength, range of motion, flexibility and overall health of the joints, muscles and skin. This, combined with the nervous system benefits, may reduce pain and increase function. Many students report an increase in quality of sleep, sustained energy levels and, perhaps most importantly, a higher level of willingness to be with, and maybe even be comfortable in, their own body, mind and spirit.

I will be teaching aerial yoga in France in June at the gorgeous Puyssentut  - a retreat center and source of well-being and inspiration for people with cancer.