Acroyoga is a fusion of two different forms- acrobatics and yoga. This is a new kind of yoga which combines acrobatics along with some yogic postures. You could also call it 'partner yoga' because you require a partner or a companion to do it. This concept was brought into light in the year 1998. The basis of this combination was a common ground that yoga and acrobatics have; being in the moment. So, being in the moment and in sync with the partner is an essential of acro yoga.
There are three main roles in the acroyoga. The first one is the base; this person has maximum contact with the ground. This person provides support to the flyer. This implies that this person has to be strong enough; it would be good to take a person you trust as the base. Base is equal to stability. Then is the role of the flyer. This is the individual who is elevated by the base. The flyer makes various positions with the support of the base. He/she should have the sense of balance, confidence and core strength. Then there is the spotter; this is the person who views and instructs the movements of the base and the flyer. He/she makes sure that the movements are improved from time to time. The spotter represents safety and guidance.
There are 7 elements that combine to form the acroyoga. They are the circle ceremony, asana, partner flow, Thai message, therapeutic flying, inversions & spotting and partner acrobatics. The main goal of this exercise is to bring the individuals into a state of union with themselves, with each other, and with the divine.
Acroyoga is of great benefit especially for the people lining in the big cities. It is a great way to de-stress and shun the feelings of loneliness. The idea of coming in contact with a stranger and getting rid of the initial discomfort by touching the partner is of great help in building trust and security.
Some of the comprehensive positions of acroyoga are Reverse Star in Scorpion, Hangle Dangle, Urdhva Dhanurasana- Backbend, Firefly Pose on Two- Legged Inverted Staff Pose, Mayurasna or Peacock Posture, Urdhva Dhanurasana Pyramid, Back Flying in Natarajana or King dancer pose, Loop de loop, Beach on Plank, Eka Pada Koundinyasana (variation) and others.
You can have great fun while doing acroyoga. The positions may seem difficult initially but gradually one is able to do them with ease. It is a fun way to keep fit and have a healthy mind too. Make sure you go to a trained professional if you are newcomer because amateur trainers would put you in trouble as the acroyoga postures are complicated in a way that two people have to be in synchronization.
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