We come to our yoga practice in many different ways. As a registered nurse workman’s compensation case manager, loving wife, and the mother of two very active boys, Bethany Hallquist often finds her mind stretched to its limits. In order to take care of herself, she takes classes in a variety of movement disciplines. When she first tried aerial yoga, however, she found that she didn’t have the physical strength to continue. When her sons started taking gymnastic classes, she watched them with longing.
Barre classes proved to be the secret ingredient, as they strengthened her core to the point where she could hold herself up comfortably while balanced in the silk fabric. Bethany soon found herself an aerial yoga studio, and has been taking classes ever since, attending once a week. She notes that her teacher, Nairi, is “amazing” and gives a grateful shout out to everyone at Flying Up Yoga in Studio City.
If you haven’t tried this difficult and physically challenging form of yoga, imagine taking your mat practice six feet off the ground. Instead of bringing your body in contact with the floor, the arms and legs are supported by silk fabric. This relieves pressure on the boy and allows for greater stretching. The silks do chafe, but this is relieved by wearing clothing that covers sensitive areas (such as the inside of one’s thighs.) While the practice is focused on physical movements, the concentration required to move in and out of the poses is contemplative. Bringing the mind together with the movement of the body is a form of meditation, and Bethany appreciates the way in which her practice helps her to return to calm and centeredness.
When Bethany isn’t studying aerial yoga or working, she’s busy baking cookies! Her deft hand with royal icing has given her a side hustle, one in which she celebrates her physical prowess by illustrating various poses on cookies. How’s this for a celebration of mind and body?!
I’ve known Bethany for many years, and it’s been wonderful to see her life unfold and her family continue to grow. Here’s a final picture of her with her husband and sons:
A beautiful family, yes? And one that’s supported by a yoga practice. I’ve never personally tried aerial yoga, but seeing Bethany’s progress has piqued my curiosity.
Do you have any questions about aerial yoga or Bethany’s cookies? Please feel free to leave a comment on this post!
Note: these amazing photographs were given to me by Bethany herself; I did not take them. I am, however, pleased to be able to share them with you!
Yoga Cielo Stellato 