Body Acceptance, Larger Bodies, Body Dysmorphia

Creating an Inclusive & Body-Positive Practice Space

It’s incredible how transformative it can be to be in a space where it’s not only okay, but welcome, that you just live and be happy in the body you have today. – Anna Guest-Jelley

Here we explore these philosophies and actions that you can take to support students in having a body-positive experience:

1. Be intentional in setting a space of non-judgment and body acceptance.
2. Authentically model body positivity, self-love and acceptance.
3. Teach the opportunity that yoga provides to develop a healthy relationship with body and mind — a critical component of inspiring body positivity.
4. Promote a safe, noncompetitive environment.
5. Foster community.

Intention & Commitment

• We propose that every teacher be intentional about setting a space of non-judgment and body acceptance.
• Such a space can provide an opportunity that some students may encounter nowhere else.
• Trauma-sensitive yoga teachings provide excellent insight into how to provide psychological and emotional safety for all students.
• See also: Inclusive & Accepting Word Choice