This Valentine’s Day was one to remember. I shared it with one of my favorite people on earth, surrounded by strength, courage, beauty and love. I ventured out of my comfort zone (yet again!) and flew into a new obsession – Aerial Yoga. It was only fitting that I attempted this new adventure with my best friend, my workout warrior, my confidant, my soul sister. The love between friends is beyond a blessed feeling – it is essential. My friends help me breathe, reignite and always see the light at the end of every tunnel. With that said, it felt perfectly natural to start the “Day of Love” off with my dear friend as we explored a new fitness endeavor – ready to conquer and fly! ♥
We had the opportunity to try Aerial Yoga for the very first time at a MAGNIFICENT studio – Bindi Yoga. Located in Lynnwood, Washington, Bindi is a well-versed Yoga studio offering a range of practices including Hot, Power, Zin, Sculpt and of course Aerial. They frequently have specialty workshops, as well, providing yogis a chance to always change, grow and develop their practice.
Let’s get into my new obsession…
“Aerial Yoga…an up and coming yoga practice which takes you off your yoga mat and into the air. With the help of a fabric hammock and gravity, we can provide your body with a fluid and playful practice without the compression of the joints and spine.” (Bindi Yoga)
My first Aerial class was taught by Susan, the owner (& passionate yogi) of Bindi Yoga. She was absolutely AMAZING in making me feel very safe and confident in the hammock. She walked the class step-by-step into the basic poses of Aerial Yoga, allowing each participant to get a feel for the practice and focus on utilizing the strength in our core, legs and arms. It is a workout like I have never done before. It is intense, energizing, yet extremely beautiful.
A few tips for Aerial Yoga:
- Always reserve your spot ahead of time, since there are only a certain number of hammocks available.
- Wear closed armpit shirts without zippers, buttons, etc. (to protect the hammocks).
- Avoid if you are battling a head cold or sinus infection (some of the poses can cause discomfort if you are feeling ill).
Some of you may be wondering about motion sickness. Well, I am one to suffer from this quite often, whether it be in a car or on a boat, but Aerial didn’t bother me at all. If you are feeling unwell, this could cause nausea. More than anything, take it nice and slow and communicate with your instructor if you are feeling at all dizzy or nauseous. Sometimes, we all just need a child’s pose and then we can reconnect with the practice. With anything, you never know until you try!
If you live in the Pacific Northwest, I highly recommend you check out Bindi Yoga for Aerial Yoga or try one of the other 35+ classes they offer each week! Bindi is kind enough to offer a Special for Obsessed by Portia readers – 15% off a single class! To receive the offer, please email Susan at bindiyoga@frontier.com. ♥
Bindi Yoga Price List:
- New Student Special: $35 for One Month of Unlimited Yoga Classes (1 Aerial Yoga Class Included)
- 1 Yoga Pass: $15
- 1 Aerial Pass: $16
- 5 Yoga Class Pass: $60
- 5 Aerial Class Pass: $65
- 10 Yoga Class Pass: $110
- 10 Aerial Class Pass: $120
- 1 Month Unlimited Yoga Classes: $99 (Does not include Aerial)
- Discounts for seniors (60+), students, police, firefighters, and military
For those of you who do not live in the PNW, I urge you to search for an Aerial Yoga class in your area…shake things up a bit. ♥
Bringing your best friend is highly encouraged! Friends who sweat together, stay together. ♥
*Not all exercise programs are suitable for everyone. Check with your doctor before beginning any fitness program to avoid/reduce the risk of injury. Exercise at your own risk. Portia will not be responsible or liable for any injury sustained as a result of using any fitness program presented and/or discussed on Obsessed by Portia.
XoXo Portia