Aerial Arts
Aerial arts benefit multiple needs, learning styles and energy levels; and the findings are remarkable. Yoga practiced with the support of aerial silks open up a world of vestibular, proprioceptive and tactile input. Practices vary, duration as short as 3 minutes up to 40 minute lessons, flexible and personalized for individuals, small and large groups. Students report quick response integration, increased joy, and readiness to connect with others. Students also report a noticeable shift in focus and attitude in as short as10-20 breaths; with bonus increase in self empowerment.
“Imagination is the highest form of research. ”
“Grades close today, and I’m nervous. I have a lot of negative thoughts today getting in the way and I want to get upside down and do a brain re-set. Do you have 3 minutes before I head to class?”
“The aerial yoga we do on Wellness Wednesdays align with all the National and state PE standards. It works well because the students understand that this is another tool in their toolbox to help regulate their bodies emotionally and physically.”
enhances social balance
Sensory integration, control and exploration are easily accessible.
Aerial offers multi-plane movement which benefits our vestibular system – supporting and stabilizing balance, posture, our head and body during movement.
Aerial is fun, the first thing you will notice when we’re practicing are the smiles on everyone’s faces.
Students are noticeably more engaged socially, emotionally and collaboratively.
“I feel so calm, like all of my anger just poured out of me and the room is brighter, why is that? ”
fosters neuroplasticity
And the suspension and play heighten mental agility, flexibility and awareness.
Proprioceptive input from the softness and deep pressure of the aerial silks with the body create a calming effect on the nervous system and improves body awareness.
Aerial yoga brings out self confidence and perseverance. Students report a positive association with their unique abilities as they engage in this new perspective of movement, breath and mindset.
“I just taught the upside down spin. Teaching feels so good, great work, look how great she is! I want to practice more so I can teach more... ”
quick responsiveness
Practices vary, and provide a full range of experience from restoration/relaxation to very athletic.
Positive tactile interaction between the silks and the skin yields the deep, lasting and quick response benefits. Plus, aerial arts has a cool factor that noticeably reduces isolation, social awkwardness, negative thoughts and increases social balance and inclusivity.
“I want my art to help another kid. You can do it! Try your best. Don’t feed pizza to birds, please!”
And, aerial yoga develops a wide range of skills like attention, sequencing, motor planning, working memory, imitation skills, and coordination. Aerial yoga can be used to target many different muscle groups and one or both sides of the body. The suspension is a unique tool, an “assistant” to help facilitate traditional floor yoga position making yoga even more accessible.
Fitness, yoga and wellness teachers are an emerging, growing field in education and businesses worldwide. Students are encouraged by this occupation possibility where teachers too come in all shapes, sizes, learning styles.