Aerial yoga will turn your exercise routine upside down and add a dose of serenity to your life. And it’s not just about strength training as this practice “indulges a sense of play in your inner child,” explains Prism Fitness’ Karla Hollan. Aerial yoga incorporates silk hammocks to perform poses and stretches designed to increase flexibility, promote relaxation, reduce stress and ease back pain. It incorporates gentle joint movement through oscillation or rocking motions that can also be helpful for addressing tension in the joints and improving range of motion. The anti-gravity aspect helps detoxify the circulatory and lymphatic systems, reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Prism also offers floating yoga nidra, where you can rest in a cocoon and experience guided meditation, reiki energy healing and sound therapy. Visit prismwellnessandyoga.com to learn more.
In an era of body shaming, belly dancing meshes the health benefits of dance and movement through music with mental wellness. It is believed that it can rewire the brain, reduce stress and help you to sleep better. Hip Expressions offers many styles of dance classes, including Polynesian, hula, samba, tribal, burlesque, nia, jazz, salsa and swing, but this one is based on their “Positive Intelligence” program, which is focused on increasing mental fitness, self-esteem and coping skills through belly dancing. It’s more than a fitness trend. It is a community of like-minded people engaging in creative movement, studio dance parties, drum circles and music shows. For more details, visit hip-expressions.com
You can unlock access to traditional saunas, red light therapy and invigorating cold plunges with a Balance House membership. The potential benefits of these increasingly popular plunges have been touted by athletes and wellness gurus and are reported to revitalize your body and mind. Temperatures range from 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit for those who are just starting out and 40 to 50 for experienced plungers. The practice is reported to boost mood, increase mental clarity, reduce symptoms of anxiety, improve “feel good” hormones through the release of endorphins, reduce inflammation and enhance circulation. For more information, visit balancehousestudio.com
A program that combines rock-climbing with fitness training may sound daunting but feels more like a fun challenge when you have a group of friendly trainers from Vertical Ventures cheering you on. This engaging downtown studio, which offers towering 40-foot climbing walls with auto belays, bouldering terrain and group fitness classes, will inspire you to challenge yourself. Level up your climbing skills and connect with fellow climbers by joining the five-week Spring Boulder League, kicking off this May and featuring fun, themed league nights. Get in on the action by visiting verticalventures.com
