Late yoga master B.K.S. Iyenger fi rst
introduced the use of props while practicing
yoga in the 1900s. He is credited for creating
and designing a primitive style “yoga sling”
that he personally used for inversions. In
1991, former gymnast Christopher Harrison
developed his own version of an antigravity
aerial hammock by merging his two passions of
yoga and anti-gravity fi tness. In 2007, antigravity
yoga was offi cially established, and the fi rst
aerial yoga school began offering classes.
“I took my fi rst aerial yoga class about three
years ago and really enjoyed the sensation
of being suspended in the air. The use of the
hammock as a prop made poses seem easy,”
shared Palm Studio aerial yoga instructor Cher
Smith. She became certifi ed to teach classes in
2018 and believes that, “Yoga is an art that works
with each human based on their own needs.”
The fi rst part of any aerial yoga class should
always be dedicated to stretching and warming
up: This can be done with or without the use
of the aerial hammock. Make sure that you
have not eaten for at least one hour prior to
your class, but stay hydrated both before and
after class. Do not wear any jewelry, watches,
hair clips or metal zippers that could tear the
hammock. It is best to avoid using any body
creams or lotions just prior to attending class.
Though it is not required, you can use sticky
gloves to assist with your grip. Whether you wear
long, or short sleeves/pants depends entirely
on your own personal preference. Keep in mind
however that you will be upside down during
your class. All the benefi ts of meditation such as
focus, surrendering, a sense of wholeness and
a quieted mind will be part of your experience.
You can expect to leave class feeling uplifted and
more peaceful, but there are many other longterm
benefi ts to be had.
60 GASPARILLA MAGAZINE • November/December • 2021
“ Don’t let the
fear of falling
keep you from
fl ying”