Many people are slowly returning to their aerial studios after a 3+ month hiatus. It can be frustrating to feel the limitations of our bodies in the air, especially if we’d been making all of this progress leading up to quarantine. The truth is, even if you were active the whole time, getting back in the air is going to feel different. And that’s ok!
If you’re heading back to the studio, here are 5 mindfulness reminders to bring with you (along with your mask and hand sanitizer):
1. Our bodies are ALWAYS changing. From the moment we are born, our bodies are changing. Each season of life requires our bodies to adapt and reach a different equilibrium. Sometimes we’re learning a new skill; sometimes we’re recovering from an injury; sometimes we’ve just had a baby; sometimes we’re extra stressed at work; sometimes there’s a global pandemic. The only constant is change!
2. There is no proverbial "wagon"and you didn't "fall off the wagon,” because it doesn’t exist. As per above, your life (and body) is always changing. You are different from the person you were 3+ months ago, so your body’s needs are going to be different.
3. Show yourself grace. This has been a very stressful time in many different ways. Our minds and bodies are going through a LOT. The fact that you have this passion that you’re excited to get back to is beautiful in and of itself, so we encourage you to celebrate that--even if you can’t do everything you used to.
4. Your aerial practice is a journey, not a destination. No matter where you are on this journey, you’re never “behind” because it is NEVER finished. Yes of course we make goals and crush them in the name of progress. But once a goal is reached, there is always another, which is one of the reasons that many of us love this sport!
5. Meet yourself where you are, and go from there. The past is over. Where you were before in your aerial practice is irrelevant. Take stock of your present skills and endurance level and move forward!
That all being said, we’ve found that aerialists are able to remember and do more than they expect (thanks to muscle memory!), but generally are getting tired sooner than they used to. Take all the breaks you need.
Happy flying, friends!
P.S. Share this with a friend who needs some more self love these days!