I filmed a flow episode for the Acroyoga Show where me and an acro partner wore blindfolds and then did a few washing machines, and it got me thinking...
What if Acroyoga is the perfect practice for Blind people, or even people who are missing another sense.
Like deaf or mute.
I have talked before many times about the benefits and wide ranging applications for this wonderful practice of acroyoga.
But I think this is something that could potentially impact a disabled persons life in a really positive way.
So let's dive into it.
I've never actually done acro with a fully blind person. But other than the obvious challenge it poses in not being able to see whilst moving and balancing.
It actually is somewhat accessible.
If you ever tried doing acro with a blindfold or closing your eyes you'll know that it's not as difficult as it might seem at first.
Especially if only one person in the pair is blind, then the other can quite comfortably provide cues and verbal advice etc.
The amazing thing with acro is that it is a practice where we almost always have a physical touch connection.
So for someone who is blind I believe this could be an incredible practice for them to take up.
I imagine if you're blind there is a limitation on how many sports are truly accessible, and I think that Acroyoga could be something of a revolutionary new practice for the visually impaired.
I think the biggest challenge is in adapting how we teach acro for those who are blind.
The focus would shift away from visual cues and pointers, to much more cues of feeling and balance and weight shifting.
Plus more focus on directional cues for body parts.
All of these should be being, and are taught in acro classes already, but really dropping the visual cues brings more focus to these other cues and techniques.
This is actually a topic I am really interested in exploring further.
I've been lucky enough in the past to play acro with a deaf and mute lady which was an amazing experience.
I was really encouraged and amazed by the practice with her.
How it challenged my communication, and also how everything was still very possible to achieve.
So I guess this is a shout-out to whether you know of any blind, deaf, mute or otherwise disabled individuals who would be interested to try acro?
If so I would love to connect with them, talk, share acro, or even do an in person session if they are here in Bali. :)
I believe in the power of acro as a force for good, and I'm sure this area of acro sharing is one I will definitely be expanding on in the future.
Cheers,
Cas
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