ANTI-GRAVITY YOGA: Defying Gravity

Having a petite body type, exercise and a like was never part of my daily routine. Though I know I shouldn't exclude myself from it, I know I have to because of age and my body aches tell me I should start ASAP.

AntiGravity® Yoga

Luckily, I had the chance to have a peek on the newest yoga craze last December 2. After making its mark in the US and 40 other countries worldwide, Christopher Harrison, founder of AntiGravity® Yoga, is bringing it here in Manila in partnership with Beyond Yoga.

Christopher Harrison, broadway aerial choreographer
and former world-class gymnastics specialist
and the developer of AntiGravity® Yoga

AntiGravity® Yoga combines traditional yoga poses and principles with elements from aerial arts, dance, gymnastics, Pilates, and calisthenics. With this technique one can obtain all of the benefits of yoga without the impact or strain required to achieve the same movements and positions on the ground.  Using the principles of gravity to achieve physical and mental decompression, it allows practitioners to get in shape and realign their body in a playful environment.  The philosophy of AntiGravity® Yoga takes into consideration the two meanings of the word anti-gravity. The first is to “defy the laws of physics” and, secondly, to take a stance “against graveness,” assuring that classes are fun!

Christopher Harrison demonstrates 
the Inverted Monkey Pose
using the AntiGravity® Hammock

AntiGravity® Yoga utilizes a silk hammock apparatus invented by Harrison called the AntiGravity® Hammock.  It is a structural fabric, rated to safely hold over 2000 pounds, connected from two overhead points, and acts like a swing or soft trapeze. In a typical class, AntiGravity® Yoga instructors guide students through basic progressions that lead to spinal decompression release.  Classes on the AntiGravity® Hammock are appropriate for those of all ages and fitness levels and include low impact cardio, strength and flexibility training, balance and agility exercises, and inversions.

BENEFITS OF ZERO COMPRESSION INVERSIONS™

• Decompresses the spine, relieving pressure & hydrating disks
• Realigns the vertebrae, making space for nerves
• Triggers hormonal release from glands
• Refreshes the circulatory system
• Refreshes the endocrine system
• Unclogs the digestive system
• Sends fresh blood to brain, releasing neurotransmitters
• Increases spatial awareness and agility

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OF ANTIGRAVITY YOGA

• Increases joint mobility through gyrokinetic motion
• Provides a low impact cardiovascular workout
• Allows for advanced yoga poses without compression
• Stretches muscles further, yet with less strain
• Increases proprioceptive response for greater agility
• Increases muscular strength
• Forces correct alignment while holding challenging poses
• Increases sexual health
• Increased command/response acuity.
• Self-esteem enhancement through conquering basic fears.
• More astute presence through mindfulness conditioning.
• Learning of new skills; an artistic fitness experience.
• Unique fun that works risible as well as functional muscles.

AntiGravity® Yoga will be available on February 2012 exclusively on Beyond Yoga located at 3rd Floor,  Il Terrazzo, Tomas Morato corner Scout Madrinian Street, Quezon City. Learn more about Beyond Yoga and AntiGravity Yoga by visiting www.igobeyondyoga.com or call (+63917) 5BEYOND (5239663)

For more pictures click here.