Breaking The Mould Of Accessible Yoga
Welcome to All Bodies Yoga, a virtual yoga and somatics studio designed to bring accessible healing and wellness practices to all bodies, with a particular focus on supporting and affirming fat, disabled, and chronically ill bodies. Our mission is to create a safe and supportive space for those who have historically been excluded from wellness and healing spaces due to societal biases and stigmas.
It’s important to acknowledge that our bodies are diverse, and not all bodies are represented in mainstream wellness spaces. In fact, a recent study found that 80% of yoga practitioners in the United States are white and affluent, and that yoga is often marketed towards people who are already fit and able-bodied (Bower et al., 2015). This lack of representation and inclusivity in wellness spaces can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and inadequacy for marginalized bodies.
We at All Bodies Yoga believe that everyone deserves access to healing practices that support their individual needs and experiences. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 60% of American adults have a chronic illness, and nearly 1 in 4 adults in the US have a disability (CDC, 2021). Yet, the lack of accessible and inclusive wellness spaces means that many individuals with chronic illness or disabilities are unable to participate in traditional yoga classes or other wellness practices.
Additionally, weight stigma is a pervasive issue in society that can have serious consequences for health and well-being. Studies have shown that experiencing weight stigma can lead to negative health outcomes, such as increased stress and cortisol levels, decreased self-esteem, and decreased likelihood of engaging in physical activity (Puhl & Heuer, 2009). It’s essential to create spaces that actively work to combat weight stigma and promote body positivity and inclusivity.
At All Bodies Yoga, we believe that everyone deserves access to healing practices that support their individual needs and experiences. We strive to create a space where all bodies are welcomed and affirmed, regardless of size, ability, or health status. By offering our classes for free by donation, we hope to eliminate financial barriers that may prevent individuals from accessing healing practices that support their well-being.
We invite you to join us at All Bodies Yoga, where we honor the diversity of all bodies and create a supportive space for everyone to explore the healing and transformative power of yoga and somatics.
