I’ve been thinking about diet culture and fat phobia continues to affect folks and their ability to access wellness spaces and even medical treatments, especially as I have just finished my Accessible Yoga Training. I remember when I was first diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), the first thing my doctor wanted me to do was lose weight. I will not discount the effects of that weight loss for me, but overtime, I regained all the weight that I had lost (and more) and found that it wasn’t really the weight loss, or perhaps changing what I ate that made the biggest difference, but it was my yoga practice. I was lucky, though, because I felt very supported by my doctor, and she has been a wonderful healthcare provider. I know others are not as lucky, and that a lot of folks in fat bodies are discriminated upon when they try to access wellness or medical support.
So it’s gotten me to thinking: how can I contribute to changing this dynamic?
Besides telling my story, I believe the creating spaces for other folks like me to feel safe to reach out for support is a first step. I might not have it all in place yet, but I am grateful for the opportunity to immerse more in this inquiry over the past two weeks, and to be in community with many like minded individuals who dream of the same thing . I am inspired to find new ways to move and practice, and to share that with others. It is my hope to continue being part of a shift in the way yoga and wellness is made accessible, and the way accessibility is understood —-that it’s not just an easy or simplified practice, but an empowering one that focuses on strength and personal agency.
As an Accessible Movement and Wellness (including but not limited to yoga and mindfulness) Facilitator, I commit to co-creating inclusive safe spaces for all folks, with the recognition of the wisdom, agency and power each one holds over their bodies and practices.
I will strive to participate in conversations that may sometimes be tender and messy, where all voices are heard and received with kindness, compassion and curiosity with the hope that together, we can foster a spirt of collective care and connection to our common humanity.
I commit to taking action by actively engaging in activities that create opportunities for all folks to have access to the practices of wellness I facilitate, and to stay connected to community to make this happen.
That being said: how can I help make yoga/movement/wellness more accessible to you? Please do feel free to reach out and let me know!
Pathways to Wellness 