Scoliosis & Aerial Arts

Subject: @Rani.davidson
Photographer: @protean.wei

I first found aerial arts via a Groupon class pack, when I was living in northern California more than fifteen years ago. I immediately loved the challenge, but wasn’t able to develop a habit. Working two jobs and completing a research internship ate up all my time, and simply surviving in Santa Cruz took all my money.

Fast forward to finding Ascendance in 2022, which felt like kismet. I knew finding a studio with the right vibe and close to my home in Renton was such a special situation. The Ascendance values around inclusivity and community were also really attractive to me. I remember coming across some marketing material with a gentleman on a lyra who looked old enough to be my grandfather. Seeing him appear so strong and focused made me feel, quite instantly, that I would be okay here (shout out to our student Gordon, who was 71 in those pictures and is still rocking it)!

Some programs and studios felt too daunting or exclusive because my goal was never to run off and join the circus. My goal was to not live in constant pain. I have scoliosis that was diagnosed as a teen and too late to do more than try to manage it with long-term chiropractic care. I had a hunch (lol) that the spinal decompression that aerial yoga is known for would feel good. So, that’s where I started and then I just kept showing up.

I now practice aerial sling and silks regularly, and recently started dance trapeze. Having a consistent practice has helped me work on my balance, flexibility, strength—all things that, for me, keep the pain at bay. There are always going to be certain moves I won’t be able to bend myself into, but as with any injury or limitation, it’s important to talk with your instructor about your comfort level. Nine times out of ten, something can be modified. And if it can’t, you can try something else!

Often, you can do much more than you initially think. My practice has definitely helped develop my mental resolve and resilience as I continue learning and pushing myself in new ways. There are too many things we can’t control about our health, from genetics to environmental factors. So, I’m playing the long game and want to set myself up as best as I can. Aging doesn’t have to mean declining. I am stronger and healthier in my forties than I was in my twenties, so I call that a win.

Written by Rani Davidson sans AI