In an effort to change the stereotypes that often go along with “who practices yoga” or “what a yoga body looks like”, The Yoga & Body Image Coalition has begun a new awareness raising campaign called “This is what a yogi looks like”:
The YBIC is “committed to body love by developing, promoting and supporting yoga that is accessible, body positive and reflects the full range of human diversity.” Their mission is to not only advocate “yoga as an essential tool in personal transformation, from the inside out”, but also to include “a critical social justice component by challenging industry leaders and media creators to expand their vision of what a yogi looks like.”
We think this is great and wanted to help spread the word.
Namaste.
Yes, Maria. But I think that it`s just for healthy people..
Hi Gloria,
Lee here, nice to “meet” you. Our goal here is to have everyone get a better understanding of what yoga is and what it can be for you. Not every type of yoga suits every body type. You have to find the yoga that works for you. Surely, there are some types of yoga or asanas that I cannot do, or choose not to because of my own limitations. I have always told my students “if you can breathe, you can practice yoga”. There are a number of asanas and yogic breathing exercises that can be done regardless of one’s limitations. As a Hatha Yoga instructor for decades, many of my students decided to practice yoga for its healing benefits, and to help them cope with a variety of ailments. Many physicians approve and recommend yoga to help treat various health conditions.
Yoga does not have to be a difficult practice. Simple yogic breathing exercises might be the best way for some people with certain health conditions to practice yoga or a way to introduce one’s self to yoga. You can always decide add more challenging asanas to your practice if you choose. Of course, always consult your physician to make sure any type of new physical activity is appropriate for you. I hope you find this helpful. Yoga can be for everybody. Please share your additional thoughts or comments.
Namaste,
Lee