Aerial Yoga is an innovative style of yoga developed by Christopher Harrison — a former gymnast, aerial performer and Broadway choreographer. Blending traditional Hatha yoga poses with Pilates and dance-inspired movements, the practice uses a soft fabric hammock suspended just a few feet above the ground. The hammock acts as both a swing and a soft trapeze, providing full support to the hips during back bends and forward bends.

Often described as yoga with a twist, Aerial Yoga uses the principles of anti-gravity to help participants explore poses that may feel challenging at ground level but become far more accessible when suspended in mid-air. Beyond being an enjoyable and fresh approach to fitness, Aerial Yoga is widely recognised as an effective way to reduce stress and support overall wellbeing. The practice offers a range of meaningful health benefits, including:

Total Body Workout

Aerial Yoga engages virtually every part of the body, encouraging movement and deep stretching throughout each session. The varied movements help to tone and redefine muscles whilst strengthening the joints. Notably, the series of inversions incorporated into each class may support spinal decompression, offering relief for those who carry tension in the back.

Improves Flexibility

With the supportive structure of the hammock, Aerial Yoga allows participants to move more freely and with less strain. Being partially suspended helps to release tension in the bones and muscles, which can gradually increase overall flexibility. The practice also targets the body’s core muscles, and the inversions performed during class may help to improve flexibility in both the spine and shoulders.

Increases Strength

Regular Aerial Yoga practice encourages the body to become both more flexible and measurably stronger. Many participants find that this increased strength translates naturally into everyday activities. Because the practice places significant demand on the core, it can help build stamina in a way that some enthusiasts compare to cross-training.

Aids Digestion

Aerial Yoga incorporates a diverse range of stretches and movements that may help support healthy digestive function. Regular practitioners often report improvements in their digestive comfort, including a reduction in feelings of constipation and indigestion.

Reactivates the Body

Expect to work up a sweat during an Aerial Yoga class. Perspiration plays an important role in the body’s internal functioning, and the active nature of Aerial Yoga gets the blood flowing effectively. Improved circulation can help to reactivate the circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems, whilst sweating itself may benefit skin health and support brain function related to memory and focus.

Be Creative at Aerial Yoga

Beyond the physical benefits, Aerial Yoga is also considered spiritually uplifting and psychologically supportive. Like many forms of exercise, it can help to relieve stress and bring greater clarity to the mind. What makes Aerial Yoga particularly special is that its benefits often extend well beyond the class itself. Participants frequently report feeling less stressed in their daily lives, which can lead to improved productivity and a greater sense of creativity. In turn, this positive outlook tends to support emotional resilience and overall happiness. Aerial Yoga genuinely nurtures emotional, spiritual and psychological wellbeing — it truly is as good for the soul as it is for the body.

Before joining your first Aerial Yoga class, it helps to arrive with an open mind. Try not to bring preconceptions about what you can or cannot do — and don’t be intimidated by the hammock. Trust it, listen carefully to your instructor, and allow yourself to be fully present in the experience.

Is Aerial Yoga for Beginners?

Aerial Yoga is suitable for all fitness levels. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or have never attended a yoga class before, you may be pleasantly surprised by what your body is capable of. Bodies and fitness levels vary enormously, so if you feel a little nervous ahead of your first session, that is entirely normal — and you are not alone.

 

Whilst Aerial Yoga is suitable for most people, it is not recommended for those who are pregnant, anyone who experiences vertigo, or individuals who have recently undergone eye surgery. If any of these apply to you, please consult your doctor before attending a class.

To get the most from your Aerial Yoga experience, please keep the following guidelines in mind:

5 Rules for Aerial Yoga

1. Wear comfortable, form-fitting clothing that allows freedom of movement, such as yoga pants and a fitted top
2. Arrive well-hydrated and have a light snack beforehand — avoid heavy meals before class
3. Maintain good personal hygiene out of respect for your fellow participants
4. Be mindful and considerate of those around you throughout the session
5. Remove all jewellery before class and arrive barefoot

Aerial Yoga in Phuket

Aerial Yoga is a truly enjoyable and forward-thinking approach to fitness and wellbeing. Santosa Phuket is proud to have been the first wellness centre on the island to introduce Aerial Yoga classes, and our weekly sessions remain as popular as ever. We warmly invite you to join us in our open-air pavilion and begin your own Aerial Yoga journey. Classes are held every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 18:00 to 19:00. For further information, please call 076 330 600 or complete the form below.

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