With the multitude of styles of yoga, why aqua yoga? What is so special about practicing in the environment of water? Is it really that big of a deal?
The environment of water provides a tremendous amount of sensory feedback to the yoga practitioner. We are accustomed to operating on land and usually only against one plane of reference and force (the ground and gravity). On land, how certain things feel in the body can over time become very familiar to the point that our awareness to what is really going on diminishes. The gift of being held in the water is that is provides an opportunity to refresh your perception of operating in your body. The unpredictable nature of moving in the water stimulates the mind. Water provides insight about imbalances in your body in a very kind and supportive way. In the water, the body receives a great lift from the effect of full gravity. This provides freedom in some ways but very interesting challenges in others. Whether you consider yourself a healthy body with no major concerns or someone who is experiencing pain and difficulty in the body, water has something special to teach you.
For individuals with a special condition who would like to understand a bit better about the properties of water and how they relate to supporting their condition, we'd like to share with you the following information generated by Camella Nair of Aqua Kriya Yoga who has been pioneering Aqua Yoga Therapy for almost 20 years. You can learn more about Camella and Aqua Kriya Yoga at www.aquakriyayoga.com
Enhances flexibility and range of motion
Improves pelvic floor health
Reduces weight on joints
Support weak muscles
Decompresses the spine
Overweight
Knee/hip issues
Back pain
Pregnancy issues
Blind
Educates muscles through controlled movements
Tones muscles
Massages the lymphatic system
Improves range of motion more than on land
Reduces resting and exercise heart rate
Amputation
Scoliosis
Post-surgery on joints
Arthritis
Cancer
Increases respiratory function
Improves circulation
Improves posture and trunk control
Affects skin and internal organs positively
Reduces swelling in legs and ankles
Asthma
Depression
Spinal injury
Paralysis
Post surgery
Increases sensory awareness
Improves balance
Freedom for those with paralyses
Uses therapy time more efficiently
Calms the parasympathetic nervous system
PTSD
Fibromyalgia
Multiple Sclerosis
Parkinson's Disease
Autism