About Open Mind Yoga Hawai’i:
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Summer and Corey Rothwell, owners of Yoga Under the Palms and proud parents of two boys with autism (who attend almost every class). Our mission is to create a supportive, inclusive space where individuals on the autism spectrum and with other disabilities can play, learn, and grow in a way that feels safe, engaging, and empowering.
We are a 100% volunteer-led organization, and all of our classes are offered completely free of charge to families. This allows us to remove financial barriers and ensure that every individual has access to meaningful movement, connection, and community.
Through our specialized aerial yoga program, we offer classes for children, teens, and adults with special needs, including those with moderate to high support needs. We serve individuals who are often unable to participate in traditional sports or movement-based programs—whether due to challenges with communication, following directions, sensory sensitivities, or behavioral regulation. Our program meets participants where they are, creating a space that is flexible, understanding, and truly inclusive.
Our classes support sensory integration, build strength and coordination, and encourage confidence and self-expression—all while having fun. In addition to aerial yoga, we incorporate sensory play and guided social activities to help participants develop connection, communication, and regulation skills.
We understand that every individual is unique, which is why our program is structured to provide personalized support. Participants are encouraged to attend alongside a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), parent, or caregiver to ensure a familiar and supportive experience. Together, we create an environment where each person can have fun in their own way and at their own pace.
Why aerial yoga? The aerial hammock and its movement provides a therapeutic sensory experience that can help body awareness, motor planning, attention/focus, core strength, coordination, motor skills, vestibular input, proprioception and tactile input. The hammock also creates a boundary and allows kids to participate in a group activity from their own protected and defined space.
Schedule: Tuesday 3pm, Saturday 12pm. Sign up for these classes from our yoga schedule page and look for SPED Aerial.
Price: FREE
Who can attend: This class is designed for people with special needs to attend with a parent/caregiver or RBT. These classes are open to all ages. Please note that we do not have an elevator and our aerial rooms are only accessible via stairs. We currently have participants aged 3 – 19 but welcome adults as well.
What if my child will not participate?
We hear this concern often and we understand. Fear of our child being disruptive or not enjoying the class can be intimidating. SPED aerial is a space where kids can come as they are (and feel free to bring comforting supports) and see if they like the experience. We have watched several kids resist the experience on the first visit but to slowly get used to the class and grow to like it in just a few sessions. There is no judgement here – if your child needs to stim – no problem. If your child wants to play with the yoga blocks or pilates balls instead of get in the hammock – great! We believe that participation comes in many forms and are here to support your child having fun.
For more information or to enroll:
email summer@yogaunderthepalms.com