Prioritizing Your Mental Health

Happy World Mental Health Day! 

Each year since 1992, October 10 is observed as a day to raise awareness and create positive action for the mental health issues that affect about 450 million people around the world today.

Along with the devastation wrought by COVID-19, more people than ever may be vulnerable to experiencing symptoms of mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. In a time of such suffering and uncertainty, it’s easy to see why.

But for those who are lucky enough to find their place in the world of aerial arts, the practice might help to ease and soften these mental health struggles. Today is a great day to start a conversation with those around you and also to reflect on your own mental wellness.

Check in with your loved ones, even just simply asking how they are doing. Questions like “How are you?”, “What is that like?”, “Are you ok?” can open a conversation or even just let them know that you are there for them.  

Remember that you don’t have to be their therapist, you don’t necessarily need to give advice, and you don’t have to  fix them. But by reminding people that you care about them and are there for them can make a big difference.

It’s a great time to check in with your own mental wellness too. What brings you joy? What are you grateful for? Consider reflection today on what brings you mental strength. 

If aerial practice is on that list, make it a priority for the coming weeks! 

Aerial practice is a wonderful  tool for cultivating better health…including mental health. Mental health is an important aspect of our overall well being that we can sometimes tend to overlook amidst the business of our lives. 

Yoga has long been known to create a sense of peace and equanimity in practitioners, making space to bring body and mind together. Yoga’s gentle way of relieving stress and anxiety is noticeable. And as many aerial yogis will tell you, the benefits of bringing aerial and yoga together can reduce stress, increase concentration, and foster a feeling of joy. 

Jenna sitting on our Pink Champagne Aerial Hammock

Aerial arts require you to stay “grounded” in the present moment, even though you may be hanging upside down with an entirely new perspective. Aerial yoga also reminds us to focus on the breath.These same techniques are also used to help work with and alleviate symptoms of anxiety in professional settings.

Aerial arts and aerial yoga are valuable paths toward liberation from the illusions of the mind. And when we cultivate a sense of confidence and acceptance for ourselves, our mental health can deepen and improve.

A staggering one in four people will experience some form of mental health issues in their lives. In the global push for health care equity, this year’s theme of World Mental Health Day is  Mental Health for All. So grab your green ribbon to show support for the cause. And if you are hurting for any reason, please reach out for help!

SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
NAMI Helpline: 800-950-NAMI