Inversions can affect the body in a variety of ways, and there are plenty of benefits of inversions in aerial yoga. Hanging upside down has a positive influence on our physical, mental, and spiritual states.
Aerial yoga is a style of yoga that includes a lot of inversions. The hammock supports and suspends the body in various poses, including inversions. Unlike traditional yoga inversions, aerial yoga supports the body in poses that allow you to hang completely upside down.
Inverted poses in the hammock offer unique benefits compared to traditional inversions on the mat.
What is an Inversion?
An inversion is any asana where the head is below the heart. In traditional yoga, these include headstands, handstands, downward facing dog, viparita karani (legs up the wall pose), and more.
Contraindications of Yoga Inversions
It is important to note that inversions may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions or injuries. As always, it is important to practice yoga mindfully and with awareness of one’s own body and limitations.
While yoga inversions have a lot of incredible benefits, there are a few contraindications you need to be aware of.
It’s also incredibly important to practice inversions under the guidance of a qualified yoga teacher. They can sometimes be challenging, and without proper instruction regarding alignment and technique, you could injure yourself. It’s also important to be aware of aerial yoga safety at all times.
How Yoga Inversions Affect the Body
Aerial inversions affect various systems of the body in different ways. From the circulatory system to the respiratory system, there are plenty of physical benefits.
Circulatory System
When it comes to the circulatory system, inversions help to increase blood flow and circulation. This is extremely beneficial for people who suffer from poor circulation or high blood pressure.
Additionally, with the head below the heart, blood can flow more easily to the upper body, including the brain. This additional oxygen can be great for improving mental clarity and focus.
Lymphatic System
Inversions and the pressure from the aerial hammock can help stimulate the lymphatic system. This helps the body remove waste and toxins, allowing the immune system to do its job.
The lymphatic system relies on movement to function properly. Inverting the body helps to create that movement, stimulating lymphatic drainage.
Respiratory System
Another organ that benefits greatly from inverting the body is the lungs. Not only can inverting improve lung function and breathing. By reversing the effects of gravity, the lungs expand, and respiratory capacity is improved.
Nervous System
If you suffer from high levels of stress and anxiety, inversions are a great way to calm and relax your body and mind. The hammock also provides a sense of support and security, allowing the body to release tension and relax.
Musculoskeletal System
Hanging upside down with the assistance of a hammock allows the spine to elongate and decompress. This is great for relieving back pain and tension. Since the hammock supports your entire body weight, pressure is released on the discs and nerves.
The aerial yoga hammock can also facilitate an increased range of motion in the joints, particularly the hips, and shoulders. Additionally, inverted poses can also help to improve joint lubrication and reduce stiffness.
Another incredible benefit of hammock-assisted inversions is core strengthening. Aerial hammock poses often require strong core engagement and stability, especially if you want to achieve proper alignment and balance.
Emotional Benefits of Inversions
In addition to the physical benefits, inversions in yoga can also have emotional benefits, especially for anxiety and depression.
Increased Confidence
Aerial inversions aren’t easy. Successfully holding inverted poses is a great way to build self-esteem and boost self-confidence. If you practice aerial yoga poses regularly, you’ll also find yourself building trust in your own body and your abilities.
Reduced Anxiety and Stress
As we mentioned earlier, inversions can have a calming effect on the nervous system. This can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Inverting the body can also help to shift perspective and release negative thought patterns.
Improve Focus and Mental Clarity
Because inversions increase blood flow and oxygenation to the brain, they can help to enhance mental clarity and focus. Hanging upside down also can help to clear the mind and improve concentration.
Increased Energy and Vitality
Hanging upside down can also be energizing and invigorating, which can help to combat feelings of lethargy or sluggishness. Inverting the body also stimulates the endocrine system, which regulates hormones and can boost overall energy and vitality.
Enhanced Sense of Playfulness
Aerial yoga isn’t just another form of exercise. It’s also a unique way to connect with your inner child. Practicing aerial yoga invites a sense of playfulness and fun. As a result, aerial inversions can help to cultivate a sense of joy and playfulness in one’s overall approach to life.
Spiritual Benefits from Inverted Yoga
Yoga isn’t just about physical and emotional well-being. There is also a deeply spiritual element to yoga practice, and aerial yoga isn’t any different.
While you don’t have to be spiritual to practice yoga, it does add an extra dimension to the ancient practice. Here are some of the ways yoga inversions can benefit you spiritually.
Improved Connection to the Divine
Inverted asanas can help to cultivate a sense of surrender and humility, which can deepen one’s connection to a higher power or spiritual source. Inverting the body can also help to open the heart center and connect with the divine within oneself and others.
Increased Awareness of the Present Moment
Inversions require concentration and present-moment awareness. Even a slight shift in balance can lead to a loss of stability. Inversions are a great way to cultivate mindfulness and presence in all aspects of life.
Enhanced Intuition and Inner Wisdom
Hanging upside down can stimulate the third eye chakra, which is associated with intuition and inner wisdom. This can help to cultivate a deeper connection with one’s inner wisdom and guidance.
Deepened Sense of Unity
Upside-down yoga can help to break down barriers and distinctions between the self and others, as well as between the physical and spiritual. Through inverted yoga, you can cultivate a sense of interconnectedness and unity with all beings and the universe.
Health Benefits of Inversions in Air Yoga
Both Sabrina and I have found inversions to be incredibly beneficial. We do everything we can to make sure we hang upside down once a week for at least three minutes. But if we had the opportunity, we’d do it every day.
The rush of blood to the head, the elongation of the spine, and the sheer joy from practicing aerial yoga are one of the most magical additions to a yoga practice.
Note: It is important to note that the yoga inversion benefits may vary from person to person, and that these benefits are not necessarily limited to inversions alone. A regular yoga practice, incorporating a variety of poses and techniques, can help to support overall physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
