A poi is a weight on a cord, and poi spinning is the act of spinning that weight in circles around your body. A poi can be made at home by using two soccer socks and two tennis balls. It basically requires two weights suspended at one end and you tie a hitch at either end. These pois are supposed to be moving in a circular motion in different planes. Malad-based poi spinner Sagar Pitale conducts workshops in the city at Mumbai Surf Club on Rajodi Beach off Virar. Photo Courtesy: Sagar Pitale
Sagar Pitale, who a health and wellness coach and certified Tai Chi instructor took to spinning poi more than 13 years ago. Over time, he has seen many people take to it because it not only has physical but also mental health benefits. Photo Courtesy: Sagar Pitale
City-based UX designer Nitya Vyas is one of many people who took to spinning poi only about two-three months ago. She was accidently introduced to it after her friend saw her spinning ID cards. Ever since then, she hasn't looked back and says it has helped her in many ways. Photo Courtesy: Nitya Vyas
Vyas isn't the only one because Janhavi Ajgaonkar, another poi spinner from Borivali also took it up a year ago after she spotted Pitale hosting a workshop at Mumbai Surf Club. Since she has a fascination with movements, she immediately took to it and has now applied the learnings to her every day life too. Photo Courtesy: Janhavi Ajgaonkar
Interestingly, spinning poi has many health benefits including physical and cognitive benefits. According to Dr Sonal Anand, psychiatrist at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mira Road, it not only improves the mood but also hand-eye-coordination and decision-making skills. She says it also helps It also helps to enhance the focus and attention needed to do the daily tasks, strengthens the muscles and improves one’s balance. One can also increase grip strength and mobility. Photo Courtesy: Sagar Pitale
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