AcroYoga

Acro Yoga brings together yoga, acrobatics and Thai massage.

Acro Yoga is a form of partner yoga which brings together yoga, acrobatics and Thai massage. It is a playful, fun but also therapeutic form of yoga.

History and origins

Acro Yoga originated in the USA in 2003 and was developed by Jenny Sauer-Klein and Jason Nemer, a dancer and a yogi. For more information about Jenny and Jason visit the AcroYoga website.

Philosophy and principles

Acro Yoga brings together the three traditions of yoga, acrobatics and Thai massage.
The philosophy of yoga takes it from being just a physical practice by cultivating an awareness of breath and connection.
The (Solar) acrobatic practices, such as lifting and supporting your partner, are powerful, technical and playful. They cultivate trust, empowerment and joy.
The (Lunar) Thai massage elements are healing and cultivate listening, loving and letting go.

The practice of Acro Yoga today

Acro Yoga is practiced with a partner and often a third person. The person doing the lifting is called the base, the second person being lifted is the flyer and the third person is the spotter who is there for safety and to assist.
A session will usually start with solo work, centreing and checking in with yourself before starting partner or group work.
In a class you will learn the acrobatic techniques to be able to lift and be lifted safely and more easily.

There are two types of practice:

Lunar – The lunar practice is the therapeutic style of Acro Yoga bringing in the Thai massage and other healing practices. In the Lunar practice the flyer (or receiver) is passive, handing over control, while the base (the giver) supports their weight while moving them around to stretch, twist and massage them.

Solar – In the Solar practice both the base and flyer are active. The focus is much more on dynamic acrobatic techniques and is fun and empowering. Or as teacher Deike Bikker says “this is where you get to do cool tricks!”

The benefits of Acro Yoga

The acrobatic aspects of Acro Yoga build strength for both the flyer and the base, especially in the core, arms and legs.

Acro Yoga includes lots of inversions such as supported Handstands and Headstands and so the flyer is able to receive the benefits of inversions such as improved circulation, empowerment and confidence.

The Lunar practice brings therapeutic healing qualities for both the receiver and the giver. The Thai massage relieves muscle strain and tension allowing energy to flow as it should in the body. Usually both partners will take turns in each role.

Unlike most forms of yoga Acro Yoga involves an obvious physical connection with others as well as an emotional connection as we learn to trust each other while working in partnership. This brings a sense of community and warmth.

Practice with

Dieke BikkerEsther Hertog

AcroYoga Classes

Get started today
All
Esther Hertog
5:54
AcroYoga Therapeutic Flying Back Leaf
Dieke Bikker
Restorative Therapeutic
This class is a short introduction to AcroYoga Therapeutics. In this introduction we focus on Back Leaf, where you learn to base and fly this backbend, supported by your partner. It's a fun way of doing yoga together and also brings in many different aspects like practicing trust. Make sure you prepare well; if needed work with a third person who spots you, making sure you can't fall. For more AcroYoga with more preparation exercises, please go to our online class 'AcroYoga Forward Flying Basics' or 'AcroYoga Back Flying High Flying Whale'.
All
Esther Hertog
6:52
AcroYoga therapeutic flying folded leaf
Dieke Bikker
Restorative Therapeutic
This class is a short introduction to AcroYoga Therapeutics. In this introduction we focus on Back Leaf, where you learn to base and fly this forward bend, supported by your partner. It's a fun way of doing yoga together and also brings in many different aspects like practicing trust. Make sure you prepare well and if needed work with a third person who spots you, making sure you can't fall. For more AcroYoga with additional preparatory exercises, please go to our online class 'AcroYoga forward flying Basics’ or AcroYoga back flying High Flying Whale'.
All
Esther Hertog
3:16
Wrist love restoration with a partner
Dieke Bikker
Restorative Acro Yoga
Whenever you have done yoga where the wrists are challanged (arm balances, handstands or downward dogs), you can do this short massage for the wrists. Nice at any time of the day and especially good if you work in an office, at a keyboard or if you have RSI or CANS (complaints of the arm, neck and shoulder). You need a partner to do this with. The great thing is that you will both give and receive. Enjoy!
3
Esther Hertog
7:59
AcroYoga Solar introduction - Front Bird
Dieke Bikker
Acro Yoga Theurepeuts
In this class we make the first step into the Solar branch of AcroYoga: Front Bird. The difference between AcroYoga therapeutics (Lunar) and acrobatics (Solar), is that in the Lunar practice the flyer gets to fully receive, and in the Solar practice the flyer is also active, so it’s a more energising and strengthening. This first acrobatic pose is also sometimes called ‘Airplane'. To do it well and safely, make sure you work with a spotter who will keep you from falling. Keep trying a few times until you find your balance! Have fun!