Howard University students recently embraced an innovative approach to well-being, participating in an aerial yoga class designed to foster physical wellness and open conversations around mental health on campus. The initiative saw the Howard University CHAARG (Changing Health Attitudes + Actions to Recreate Girls) chapter collaborate with EndlessOM Yoga & Aerial for a unique aerial yoga experience. This event introduced students to the practice of yoga in suspended silk hammocks, providing a novel way to engage with self-care and stress reduction.
Cultivating Wellness Through Movement and Reflection
The aerial yoga class served as more than just a physical workout; it created a space for students to reflect on their physical and mental well-being. Guided by studio owner Sara Crosby and instructor Paula Hagan, participants learned foundational poses, stretches, and techniques during a two-hour “Aerial 101” session. Students shared laughter through their learning process and offered encouragement during challenging stretches, highlighting the communal and supportive atmosphere of the event.
Sara Crosby emphasized the importance of making wellness practices enjoyable and engaging for college students, who often face significant academic pressures, financial challenges, and social expectations. She noted that encouraging students to step away from screens, connect with friends, and engage in fun activities like aerial yoga is crucial for effective self-care. Crosby also stressed that self-care is not a luxury but a non-negotiable aspect of maintaining personal well-being throughout life.
The Mental and Physical Benefits of Aerial Yoga
Aerial yoga, a hybrid practice blending traditional yoga poses, Pilates, and dance with the support of a hammock, offers a multitude of benefits for both physical and mental health.
Reducing Stress and Enhancing Mood
The practice is known for its ability to foster mindfulness, reduce stress, and enhance mood. The gentle swaying motion of the hammock can have a soothing effect on the nervous system, helping to alleviate anxiety and tension. Regular physical activity, including aerial yoga, increases the release of endorphins—brain chemicals that naturally boost mood and can mitigate feelings of depression. The novelty and enjoyment of aerial yoga can also contribute to a joyful experience, lifting spirits.
Boosting Confidence and Mental Clarity
Mastering aerial poses often involves overcoming fears and self-doubt, which can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence. This sense of accomplishment is a vital component of mental health. Furthermore, aerial yoga demands focused attention on poses, breathing, and balance, which enhances concentration and cognitive function, leading to improved mental clarity. Increased blood flow and oxygenation to the brain during inversions can also help clear jumbled thoughts.
Promoting Body Awareness and Emotional Release
Aerial yoga fosters body awareness, strengthening the mind-body connection. This heightened awareness can improve stress response and emotional regulation. Certain poses and stretches can help release tension stored in the body, which may be linked to unresolved emotions, providing a safe space for emotional release.
Howard University’s Commitment to Student Mental Health and Wellness
This aerial yoga event is part of a broader commitment by Howard University to support the holistic well-being of its students. The university offers various resources and initiatives aimed at addressing student mental health.
Comprehensive Support Services
Howard University provides robust mental health support through its University Counseling Service, offering individual counseling, group therapy, and workshops. These services address concerns related to stress, adjustment to university life, and other personal challenges. The university also provides a crisis line for immediate assistance during evenings, weekends, and holidays, ensuring students have access to help whenever needed.
Proactive Wellness Programs
Beyond direct counseling, Howard University engages in proactive wellness initiatives. The School of Social Work, for instance, has implemented a Mental Health Awareness and Training program, offering workshops and culturally relevant training to thousands of participants. Additionally, the university has partnered with the True Voice wellness app, providing students with access to mindfulness courses, live expert sessions, and tools for physical and mental well-being. Programs like the “Joyful Wellness Experience,” in collaboration with the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, also emphasize mental health awareness and education through activities like yoga, sound baths, and meditation.
A Path Forward for Student Well-being
By incorporating innovative and engaging activities like aerial yoga into its wellness offerings, Howard University is actively working to destigmatize mental health discussions and make self-care more accessible and enjoyable for its students. These efforts underscore a vital understanding: that a healthy mind and body are fundamental to academic success and overall student thriving. As students continue to navigate the pressures of college life, such initiatives provide crucial avenues for stress relief, personal growth, and community building, empowering them to prioritize their mental and physical health.
