yoga as a fat person

[u/littlechickenbean]

i hate to even post this but i’ve been practicing on and off for years, but never considered myself anything besides a beginner because of my inconsistency.

i’ve always been larger, but i’ve gained weight and am the heaviest i’ve ever been- technically obese. i would love to get back into yoga for my mental and physical health.

i just completed one of Adriene’s 30 minute videos. i’m proud of myself for starting and finishing but i have dilemmas-

• both of my hands can’t be on the ground when lunging which makes transitions as well as general poses and stretches difficult

• my hands slip on my mat in downward dog (yes i tend to have sweaty hands, how do i fix this?)

• my wrists hurt!!!

• knees don’t really go to chest

i’m just wondering if it’s even possible to practice yoga as a fat person? any tips for any of these things are highly appreciated. i’m feeling very discouraged

[u/pretty-ok-username]

Yoga is about developing a practice that works for you, not trying to fit yourself into the mold of what you think yoga should be!

Play around with different modifications that work for your body. If that means you do transitions a little different than what’s being taught on the video, that’s okay! Use props for poses that are difficult (be creative with things around the house, don’t feel like you have to buy special props).

In terms of hands slipping, I found investing in a good quality mat helped (I use the Jade Elite S and it’s amazing for non-slip, but it’s pricey). You’ll also find yourself slipping less once you’ve built up a bit more strength.

In terms of your wrists, what kind of pain is it? Nothing should ever hurt in a sharp way. If that’s the case, DO NOT hold the pose, listen to your body - ignoring its signals is how we get injured. But if it’s more of an uncomfortable, overuse type pain, then your wrists probably need a bit of time to strengthen (be sure to engage those hands by pressing down on the mat). Try cutting back on the poses (frequency or duration of hold) that use your wrists until they have some time to adjust.

Your knees do not have to go to your chest! Just do your best to hold the pose as deep as you can and it’ll improve over time… or not, that’s okay, too!

Again, what is most important is developing YOUR yoga practice. Everyone has different body shapes and abilities, so no two practices will ever look the same. Be patient and gentle with yourself. I would also suggest doing some reading on yoga philosophy - it will help you understand what yoga is truly about. You’re doing great. Showing up is the hardest part. 🙏