Author : Mr Satkam Divya, CEO, KlinicApp
Though based on traditional science and wisdom, yoga has lent itself to adaptive formats. One of them is acro yoga, which began in 1938. This includes yoga, acrobatics, and Thai massage. This is an innovative form of physical activity that helps one rejuvenate oneself. This should strictly be done under some guidance. Since Acro-Yoga includes acrobatics with a partner, if done in a wrong manner can cause injury to both.
Acro-Yoga is a vigorous form of exercise as compared to any other form of a traditional workout. With time it has been advancing and helping people improve their health and fitness. With the ease of living, people have started living a physically inactive life. Acro-Yoga includes many elements in it which make it interesting.
The various poses are:
- Front bird
- Whale
- Hangle dangle
- Back bird variation
- Floating paschi
- Three people balancing pose
Acro-Yoga is generally done under supervision for beginners and then one can continue after knowing the process. There are primary 3 roles in Acro-Yoga practice.
1. Base: the one who is always in touch with the ground and helps in elevating the flyer.
2. Flyer: the one who is elevated in the air that is held by the base person.
3. Spotter: The person who views the couple and makes sure that the flyer lands safely and does not fall.
There are elements in Acro-Yoga:
- Static pose: these are the initial basic poses that help in maintaining equilibrium.
- Acrobatic flying: focus on movements of the flyer and then learn to change these poses.
- Pops: small jumps where the partner helps with jumping by holding hands of the partner.
- Yoga: mental, physical and spiritual well-being is maintained.
- Therapeutic flying: the flyer relaxes the body and the base guides through stretch and massage.
There are various reasons people do not perform exercises or engage in fitness activities.
- Monotony: one way of exercising can cause monotony and lack of interest amongst the performers.
- Time: With increasing working time and non-productive hours there has been a lack of efficient time management which is also a reason for lack of exercise.
- Lethargy and casual approach: People have become lazy in a leisure-rich lifestyle.
There are many benefits of Acro-Yoga such as:
- Cardiovascular system: it helps improve the functioning of the heart and better blood circulation.
- Respiratory system: It helps the lungs to work at their full capacity and clear the airway for smooth air transfer.
- Muscular system: It helps bring flexibility to the body along with strong bones as Acro-Yoga strengthens the body.
- Nervous system: With improved blood flow and good air passage, the brain gets a good amount of blood supply and oxygen to perform efficiently.
- Mental health: Acro-Yoga helps one gain good consciousness and helps people with anxiety and depression. Since it is generally performed with a partner it also helps in gaining intimacy. Fitness is well maintained physically and psychologically.
Acro-Yoga and fitness are interrelated as one tends to improve health through fun and acrobatics. Since the exercise includes Thai massage it also helps in rejuvenating the skin.
It helps to build teamwork and trust because of the presence of another partner.