Floating yogaPhiledelphia, USA
Your yoga class has just started, and you’re gracefully attempting a downward dog - except you’re perched atop a 10-foot-long surfboard in a 72-foot-long pool with the Philly skyline glinting behind you.
Obviously, this isn’t your normal yoga class. This is Aqua Vida at AKA University City; a cheeky twist on traditional yoga that turns balance into a hilarious battle against gravity (a battle that you’ll probably lose if you don’t have epic core strength).
Dubbed the ‘floating sauna’ by its loyal groupies (read: those who do have great core strength), this complimentary experience is proof that self-care doesn’t always have to be serious. In fact, it can accompany an “oops!” as your surfboard wobbles and the zen moment you were relishing takes a less than graceful dive.
Aqua Vida combines classic yoga with the added thrill of instability, offering hotel guests a chance to trade their mats for a surfboard, because why just ‘find your centre’, when you can fight tot keep its afloat?
It might sound a little quirky, but according to science, this floating form of exercise is actually really good for you. Harvard Health insists yoga can zap anxiety and depression, and further research suggests floating therapy (a.k.a not wiping out every two seconds) helps you sleep better, stress less, and smile more.
So, while you’re waging war with balance on the water, know it’s all for the greater good of your mental and physical wellness.
Aqua Vida’s classes are designed to be stable, but if you’re having trouble, don’t worry! The teachers offer modifications to add ease or challenge to every pose.
You will get wet though. Yur hands, feet, back and abdomen touch the water and so it’s recommended you bring a towel and/or change of clothing for after class.