Everyone!  With some exceptions, please see the next question with the list of contraindications. Generally, aerial yoga presented in the Aviana style will offer a class experience that can meet you wherever you are at on your yoga journey whether you are new, seasoned or just exploring options for mindful movement in your life.

If you have any of the following conditions or circumstances, participation in an aerial yoga class with the hammock set to hip height where inversions (going upside down) are practiced would not be advised unless you have permission from your physician: Pregnancy, Glaucoma, Recent surgery (within the last 6 months), Heart disease, Very high or low blood pressure, Easy onset vertigo, Osteoporosis/bone weakness, Recent head injury, Cerebral Sclerosis, Propensity for Fainting, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Severe arthritis, Sinusitis or head cold, Hiatal hernia, Disc herniation or acute discogenic disease, Recent stroke, Artificial hips, Radiculitis (inflammation of nerve root in spine), Severe muscle spasms, Botox (within 6 hours).

The equipment that Aviana uses for classes is all rated to support at least 500 lbs; however, for aerial yoga flow-based classes or fitness-based classes where inversions are practiced, there is a weight limit set for the safety of the instructor that may be providing a spot for you.  

Please note the following weight limits for Aviana aerial yoga classes with the hammock set to hip height:

• Under 5’4” tall must weight less than 175 lbs
• Under 6’ tall must weigh less than 230 lbs
• Over 6’ tall must weigh less than 245 lbs

If you are participating in a cocooned relaxation with sound healing or a restorative aerial yoga practice there are no weight limits.

Absolutely not, at least not to practice the Aviana style of aerial yoga.  Aviana focuses on the hammock serving as a supportive aid for your body while you build your body awareness and strength.  Think of the hammock as your own personal trainer or yoga instructor supporting you through every pose or asana as we refer to them in yoga.  Your strength, flexibility and agility will improve through the aerial yoga practice not only for your physical body but also for your mind.

Only if you are still within your first trimester is it safe to participate in an aerial yoga practice.  Beyond the first trimester, and with your physician’s permission, you may continue to pursue classes or private sessions specifically designed for prenatal.

While, yes, this is a practice of yoga in flight, you will in fact be connected to the Earth quite a bit during the class; therefore, you will be requested to have your own mat to bring to class, unless the studio you are attending is providing them.

The mat is placed directly underneath the hammock and will provide support and comfort while standing, kneeling, and lying down during the flow.  Please note that some of the thinner and lighter mats have a tendency to slip on the floors of studios when flowing with the hammock, so please be sure to have a good quality mat for class. 

Aviana Aerial Yoga classes require that you wear a top that covers your armpits, leggings that cover to at least your knees and that your outfit is snuggly (yet comfortably) fitting to your body.  This will ensure that you have the most possible comfort during your class as the fabric will be rubbing in certain areas of the body and you do not want it to be rubbing against your skin.  Ouch.  In addition, please remove all jewelry including earrings, bracelets, and necklaces prior to class.  Lastly, if you are a smoker please refrain from smoking prior to class and please do not wear any perfumes or colognes.  This will prevent the fabric of the hammocks from smelling funky for the next person. 

Absolutely, just like a yoga practice, an aerial yoga practice can be beneficial for anyone no matter their gender.  While Aviana is a feminine empowered company, the gifts of the feminine, just like the gifts of the masculine are for all of us to embody.  For men that are new to yoga, starting with aerial yoga can be quite beneficial in order to have a supportive aid available to access poses that my not otherwise be available on the mat without the requirement of a lot of additional props.

Each class experience will vary depending upon the type of class offered and of course the Aviana Aerial Yoga Instructor teaching it.  There are a variety of class options available depending on the studio location and their aerial yoga program:

• Aviana Restorative Classes: A dimly-lit ambiance with hammocks hanging low to the ground, a short 6 – 10 inches.  This provides the body a cocoon of support as you stay closely connected to your mat yet allows elevation, lift, and support in various asanas.  The restorative classes offer rejuvenation to the nervous system for improved self-regulation, relaxation, deep muscular releases, and time to build a trusting relationship with your body, breath, emotions, and mind.
• Aviana Flow-Based Classes: An uplifting space with the hammocks set to an airy height right in line with your hip.  The class will begin with a gentle warm up, connection to the breath, and to the core, followed by a flow sequence that invites you into a moving meditation maintaining connection to your hammock like a welcomed dance partner!  Classes conclude in your personal cocoon while you drift and float into bliss.
• Aviana Fitness-Based Classes: A motivating space where the hammocks are adjusted to align with the height of your hips.  The class will begin with a foundation in core awakening and strengthening movement, range of motion exercises, breathing techniques to charge up your energy, and will energetically flow with the hammock as a powerful tool for increased strength, toning, and engagement, all while lengthening and releasing in between exercises.  

Yes!  Aviana offers children’s programming through 4-week series, Mommy & Me workshops, and special Children’s Aerial Yoga Camps.  Classes are for ages 6 -11.  The Mommy & Me workshop is for ages 5 – 11.

Yes!  Availability varies so please reach out with the date you have in mind to share an experience with your family or group.  Up to 6 students at a time can participate in a 60-minute class, if you have more than 6 in your group, the group can be broken into two groups.  See the rates below for pricing, please note pricing may vary based upon location, please contact Aviana to receive the current rates. 

• Semi-private 2-3 people – $145
• Full Group 5 – 6 people – $240

Yes!  These experiences include an aerial yoga session with storytime in the hammock, photos, and a visit with the chickens.  You do have the opportunity to bring a treat and beverage to share and enjoy on the patio with the group before leaving – please provide paper plates, utensils and cups if necessary, if presents are being shared or goodie bags, the group is welcome to enjoy the Bliss Tent for their sharing time.  Maximum 2-hour timeslot.  The cost $350 for up to 6 children. A non-refundable deposit is required to secure your date and time and a 48-hour cancellation policy applies.  Please message Holly to schedule your day and time.