OT Aerialist

April is Occupational Therapy Month—a time to celebrate a profession rooted in empowering people to live fuller, more meaningful lives. For me, as an occupational therapy assistant and lifelong aerialist, it’s also a time to reflect on the beautiful intersection between functional movement and expressive movement—between healing and artistry.

OT isn’t just about recovery—it’s about potential.

Occupational therapy helps people regain or develop the skills they need for everyday life: from brushing their teeth after a stroke to writing again after an injury, or navigating sensory challenges in a classroom. But there’s something deeper at play—it’s about unlocking human potential in all forms.

That’s where aerials came in for me.

Why OT Aerials?

At first glance, it may seem that the world of OT and aerial acrobatics couldn’t be more different. One happens in clinics or classrooms. The other in studios or stages. But in reality, both worlds ask the same question:

How can we use the body to access more joy, confidence, and capability?

Through OTAerialist, I’ve seen what happens when we use aerials as a tool for therapy and transformation. A student struggling with focus finds flow spinning in a hammock. An adult navigating body image reclaims strength by climbing. A child with sensory integration challenges becomes grounded while flying.

Aerials build strength, coordination, motor planning, sensory awareness, and emotional regulation—all foundations in OT. But they also build something OT sometimes overlooks: a sense of awe. Of achievement. Of grace. And I believe those things are therapeutic, too.

It’s more than movement. It’s meaningful movement.

Every climb, drop, twist, and hold is a moment of presence and empowerment. That’s what OT Aerials is about—mastering meaningful movement. Not just for the sake of performance, but for the sake of progress, purpose, and self-expression.

As we celebrate OT Month, I’m proud to stand at the crossroads of two powerful fields—one that lifts the body, and one that lifts the spirit. Together, they’re a force for change.

If you’re an OT professional curious about bringing aerials into your practice, or an aerialist curious about the therapeutic impact of your art—reach out. Let’s fly higher, together.

Here’s to every OT helping others rise. And to every aerialist showing us how. 🥂

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Want to take your practice to new heights?

The Aerial Mindful Journal was created for aerialists, OTs, and movement professionals who want to deepen their connection between body, mind, and movement.

Whether you’re tracking trick progress, writing reflections, or setting new goals—it’s your space to explore meaningful movement in a whole new way.

Grab your copy today and start journaling your aerial journey with intention.