T hese days many people of every generation are united in their pursuit of health and fitness. We always work towards keeping ourselves active and healthy throughout our lives. One very common way to make health and fitness a part of our daily life is yoga. Two common yoga types are traditional yoga and aerial yoga. Let us discuss the difference between aerial yoga vs traditional yoga and its benefits.
Yoga brings physical, mental, and spiritual peace along with discipline into our lives by making us relax and have control over our minds. It originated 5,000 years ago in ancient India and is also a major part of Buddhism. Let us first let us discuss what the yoga techniques actually mean and how they work.
Traditional yoga is most followed amongst those who practice it and can be done by anyone. It requires a yoga mat that makes yoga more comfortable, but it can be done without it too.
Aerial yoga is also known as anti-gravity yoga. It is a modified version of traditional yoga but rather than a yoga mat it requires a hanging silk hammock. People suspend themselves onto the hammock and use the force of gravity to perform yoga. People who have a diagnosed heart failure problem with spinal problems can not attempt this yoga technique.
One main difference you would have already noticed is the equipment. Aerial yoga uses a hammock while traditional yoga uses a mat. Aerial yoga works with gravity and a large range of movements; it helps in stretching your body and limbs compared to traditional yoga. It works with suspension in the air on the silk hammock in different positions while you breathe in and clear out your head. Since it requires hanging from a silk hammock it is also considered a dangerous practice if you do not have proper experience with it. You need a proper instructor or trainer to help you.
On the other hand, traditional yoga is a safer option as it requires only a mat and can be done on the floor. It does not require proper training beforehand like aerial yoga and can be done at home easily. You do need to be careful of certain positions as you can injure yourself if it is done wrong, however, it is easy to follow it through video tutorials. There are a few different types of yoga, like hot yoga that is similar to traditional.
Both yoga techniques have their benefits, but one may have an extra few benefits that may fit your health regime.
Cons
Pros
Yoga brings peace and control over your mind. It helps in keeping your body and mind in a healthy peaceful state.
Cons
Pros
Aerial yoga increases flexibility and range of motion, also the hanging aspect of aerial yoga brings peace and a feeling of safety for most people. They describe it as being in a cocoon. This can not be matched by traditional yoga on the floor.
In the end, it all comes down to your preference. Both types have their own list of pros and cons but one may suit you better than the other. However, we do recommend trying and switching between the traditional way and aerial to bring diversity and encourage trying new things. This way you will learn what fits you better.
