In this article, we took to crowdsourcing to gather information on what is common in fire performer’s first aid kits when they are out performing. We asked members of the Fire Performance Safety Discussion Facebook Group what are some things they always carry in their kit and the results are below. Although there is not one solid answer and everyone …
Spinning Fire in New Hampshire
Spinning Fire In New Hampshire As we get into the warmer months, people are already dusting off their gear getting ready to either spin fire for the first time or the five millionth time. The first warm days make us think of warmer nights when spinning can happen outside without the limitations of thick coats. For both the seasoned …
Firetoys: Vendor Spotlight
The Flow Arts Institute is interested in supporting businesses who have contributed to the Flow Arts community and offer products which may be of interest to our community. We were able to talk to Chazz Parham who maintains the Firetoys website and works with the mothership operations in the UK. Master Pokes is the manager of the US operations. Master Pokes …
Knee Pain; Can it be avoided?
This is another edition in an ongoing series about taking care of our bodies while spinning. This newest article is about common issues which can begin to affect every part of our lives; knee pain. As always, if you are experiencing any ongoing pain or sensitivity please consult a physician as it is important to address …
A Look at Poi Research: A Spin on Ageing
For many of us in the Flow Arts, we are aware there is a connection between spinning and our personal wellness. Now, we are reaching a place where the effects of these arts can be studied to obtain scientific evidence supporting these longtime held beliefs. One of the people leading the way in this area is Kate Riegle …
Staying Healthy and Well During a Festival
Summertime is the time of year many people wait for in preparation. The change in weather results in packed weekends as people are able to enjoy going outside and move around without many layers. For many flow artists, this is also the busy performance season. Festivals and spinning retreats seem like distant dreams in cold winter months, but …
Wrist Care
This is the second edition in a series about taking care of our bodies while spinning. For both professional and casual spinners, the movements we do while spinning can have long term effect on our bodies. This is compounded by the day-to-day strain bodies take from our jobs and the lives we live. Like the shoulders, the first …
Shoulder Health
This is the first edition in a series about taking care of our bodies while spinning. For both professional and casual spinners, the movements we do while spinning can have a long term effect on our bodies. The first step in injury prevention is being aware of what is going on with our bodies when we spin. Although …
The Evolution of Fans
In order to appreciate the classic fans prop, we can take a look at both where fans have come from and the limitless possibilities of what is yet to come. We asked fan designers Jay and Becca Becker of Forged Creations for their perspectives of how this unique prop has continued to change over the years and some advice for …
Disabilities, Self Regulation & Flow Arts
There has been quite a bit anecdotal evidence about the benefits of Flow Arts in various mental health spheres since the beginning. Only within the past few years have we turned toward the larger scientific communities to more fully understand “why” it is beneficial for so many. For those diagnosed with either physical or mental disabilities, there are various aspects …