Aerial Yoga Flexibility and Deep Stretching
The hammock is your best support system, letting you hang, stretch, and release tension that is difficult to reach on a standard mat.
This is a deep split variation, using the hammock to support my back leg. This allows for a safe and effective stretch for the hips and hamstrings.
A beautiful split sequence using the full length of the hammock. The fabric helps to gently pull you deeper into the stretch while supporting your weight.
Practicing splits in a white hammock. The fabric cradles the body, making it possible to hold these deep stretches for longer and increase flexibility.
A deep kneeling lunge stretch using the hammock to support the back leg. This is an excellent pose for opening up the hip flexors and quadriceps.
This sequence shows a seated forward fold and split inside the hammock. The fabric cocoons the body, encouraging relaxation and a deeper release.
A standing split stretch using the hammock for support. This pose is fantastic for improving balance while working on hamstring and hip flexibility.
A full center split performed in the air. The hammock provides the necessary support to hold this challenging pose and work on hip opening.
This flow moves through a split inside the hammock, demonstrating how we can use the fabric to transition between different flexibility poses.
Another variation of an aerial split, this time using the long silks. This requires more grip strength but allows for a very deep stretch.
This is Kurmasana, or Tortoise Pose, adapted for the aerial hammock. The fabric supports the upper body, allowing for a deep spinal and hip stretch.
About Flexibility & Deep Stretching
At my Goregaon studio, we use professional-grade hammocks to take the weight off your joints. This makes deep backbends and splits much safer than on the floor. It is not just about flexibility, but using the fabric to safely cradle your body while you find your range of motion, whether you are working on hip openers or spinal decompression.
Why the hammock works
When you are on a mat, your muscles often work overtime to stabilize you. In the air, the fabric holds your weight. This lets your nervous system switch off the fight or flight response, allowing your muscles to actually release. I focus on passive stretching where the hammock does the heavy lifting, especially for tight shoulders, hamstrings, and lower backs.
My approach to progress
You will see me in these photos doing splits and deep backbends, but do not feel pressured to match that on day one. I started my own journey later in life, and I know exactly how daunting these poses can look. We treat falling out of a pose as part of the lesson.
What to expect at my Goregaon studio
- Safe Rigging: I only use professional ceiling-rigged hammocks with thick crash mats underneath for your peace of mind.
- Personalized Pacing: Whether you prefer group sessions limited to 6-8 students or private one-on-one attention, we modify every pose for your current level.
- Mindset: There is no no pain, no gain talk here. We aim for progress through breathing and consistent, gentle practice.
Pinky Shah
I am Pinky, and I believe flexibility is for anyone who wants to move without pain. I turned 50 and feel 28, and my goal is to help you find that same kind of strength and ease in your own body, at your own pace.
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