Size Doesn't Figure When It Comes To Yoga For Bigger Bodies

For those of us out there who think that exercise is something other people do, and that you just need to lose 5 pounds before you can start it yourself, think again -- especially if you've considered doing yoga, and then quickly reconsidered after seeing all of the lithe and long-legged yoginis in class, bent into all manner of pretzely-looking poses.

That's not what it's about. Plus-size yoga, as it's called, will hopefully erase some of those stereotypes that keep people who may be larger, but not necessarily out of shape, from experiencing the bliss of yoga. The fact is, even thinner folks can think they, too, aren't suited for doing triangle or downward dog poses. That intimidation factor, Energy Times magazine reports, is a huge detriment which should be, and luckily is being, examined.

The shame that goes along with being "bad" or "fat," as Paula Atkinson, says, was allayed after she started doing yoga, which she called "accidental exercise."  "Yoga nurtured me in a way I never thought moving my body could," says the now-certified yoga instructor who had battled an eating disorder which caused her weight to fluctuate.

As is the case, the poses (or asanas) are therapeutic for problems often associated with being overweight including: heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and depression. What's more, depending on the type of yoga being done, poses can be modified for weak body areas until they are strengthened, or unlike hours of (let's face it, rather boring) walking on the treadmill, power yoga or hot yoga, it can transform the body in amazing ways.

If you are thinking of trying yoga, look for a beginner's class and don't be afraid to speak with your instructor beforehand about what needs your specific body might have to make it through. But most of all, don't let your dress or pant size keep you going for the first time. The word "yoga" means "to join." That doesn't just apply to the size 2, 4 or 6s.

[via Energy Times]