The Transformative Power of Adaptive Yoga
Yoga is a practice meant for every body, regardless of ability, background, or circumstance. As yoga teachers, we have the opportunity and responsibility to create spaces that are welcoming, accessible, and affirming for all. Adaptive yoga is a powerful approach that ensures yoga meets the needs of the student, allowing them to experience its physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Diversity, inclusion, and equality in yoga align with the teachings of the yamas and niyamas, the ethical foundations of the practice. By prioritizing diversity, inclusion, and equality in our classes and communities, we can help dismantle barriers and make yoga truly accessible to all.
DIVERSITY: Space For Everyone with Adaptive Yoga
The yoga world often showcases a narrow image of who “belongs” in the practice, but in reality, yoga is for everyone. True diversity in yoga means embracing students of all races, body types, abilities, genders, and backgrounds. Adaptive yoga acknowledges that no two bodies move the same way, and it encourages modifications and tools—such as props, chairs, and guided support—to ensure all practitioners feel empowered. By fostering diversity, we enhance the yoga experience, bringing together unique perspectives and lived experiences that enhance our collective practice.
Put Into Practice: Embracing Diversity
My favorite way to nurture diversity is by the use of props while teaching asana. Using props such as blocks, pillows, chairs, and even a wall for support makes yoga more approachable and enjoyable.
INCLUSION: Nurturing Belonging with Adaptive Yoga
Diversity is the presence of different individuals in the yoga space, but inclusion ensures that they feel truly welcomed and valued. As teachers, we must actively cultivate an environment where students feel safe, seen, and heard. This means using inclusive language, offering multiple variations of poses, and encouraging students to honor their bodies. Adaptive yoga is a profound expression of inclusion, as it allows each individual to participate fully, regardless of physical limitations or challenges. A truly inclusive yoga space celebrates each student’s unique journey and meets them where they are.
Put Into Practice: Embracing Inclusion
Recently, I received an email from an older male student. He attends one of my chair yoga classes that is mostly attended by women. His email read: “Thank you, Candy, for always making space for the only man in class.” I thought this was a perfect example of inclusion and was actually the force that prompted me to write this article.
EQUALITY: Access to Yoga for All
Equality in yoga is about ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities to practice, regardless of financial means, disability, or social barriers. This might mean offering sliding-scale pricing, donation-based classes, or scholarships for teacher training. It also involves advocating for better representation in yoga media and education, so all practitioners can see themselves reflected in the practice. Adaptive yoga plays a crucial role in leveling the playing field by providing thoughtful adaptations that allow all students to experience yoga in a way that works for them.
Put Into Practice: Embracing Equality
My favorite way to nurture inclusion is offering karma classes. Karma classes are free classes that I offer from time to time. Sometimes these are online or through my YouTube channel in the form of classes, workshops, and summits. Additionally, I have offered karma classes to my local community at schools and local events.
Wrapping Up: A Call to Action
As yoga teachers and practitioners, we must continuously reflect on how we can make our spaces more diverse, inclusive, and equitable. To be frank, if diversity, inclusion, and equality are not front and center of the teachings of yoga, it may as well be called guided stretching. Adaptive yoga is a vital part of this mission. By taking an adaptive approach, we ensure that all individuals—regardless of ability—can experience the profound benefits of the practice. By supporting a yoga community rooted in accessibility and respect, we not only uphold yoga’s true essence but also create a more compassionate and connected world. Let’s continue to break down barriers, uplift all voices, and expand the definition of who belongs in yoga—because the answer is simple: everyone.
Candy Price
About the Writer:Hi, I am Candy. I started Harvesting Health and Happiness out of a desire to offer blog posts related to health and happiness. My hope is to spread encouraging words through my writings to uplift the collective. Learn more about my story HERE.
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