Often asked questions and concerns:
Which class is best for me? Choose the class best suited for your needs. You can join in person, in the Portland, Oregon area, livestream using Zoom or on your own time from the on-demand library. Read the detailed descriptions on our CLASSES page to help determine which one feels aligned with your body today and perhaps sparks curiosity for growth. Absolute beginners will likely benefit most from an in-person YBB class or a private session.
How do I sign up for the in person classes? Weekday classes are offered through The People's Yoga in NE Portland. Weekend classes are offered through The Bhakti Yoga Movement Center. The classes are often sold out and may not be posted on their respective websites. Please visit. www.thepeoplesyoga.org and click on Events or https://www.thebymc.com and click on Events. OR email Bethany at bethanyb@yogaforbiggerbodies.org.
How do I join a livestream class or access the on-demand library? Join here for all the details. Livestream classes are currently offered on Wednesday’s only.
Can I drop-in to a class to check it out first, before committing to a series? Not for in-person classes no, traditional drop-in’s are not offered at this time. But you can drop-in to a livestream or recorded class! Curating a safe, community space for students is a vital part of this practice and we’ve found it most beneficial and rewarding to have one group together, practicing collective care and learning, growing and exploring together, in person, for the entire series.
What does it mean by "all sizes" welcome? As body advocates, it our belief that weight is just our bodies relationship to gravity. It is relative and shouldn't define someone's health or how someone feels about their body. Therefore, we have no weight requirement for this class and welcome anyone who is looking for a safe and body positive, fat liberation community.
What should I expect from a YBB class? Kindness, encouragement, connection and support. These things are what we value in yoga and in life. I work hard to promote and embody these values and the result is a safe and healing environment that is free from body negativity, perfectionism, and competition. We laugh, cry, wobble and thrive in our imperfection together. Each class may involve lying and/or sitting down on the floor, standing, using props for support (this includes chairs, blocks, blankets, bolsters, etc.), using the wall and moving at one's own pace. All poses can be modified for the individual.
I can't find yoga clothes that fit. What should I wear to class? Come to class dressed in whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. Clothing that has more stretch to allow your body to expand without restriction or discomfort might feel the most accessible—it doesn’t have to be what the fashion industry labels “yoga clothes”. There are a few brands that who are becoming more thoughtful around larger sizes with clothing tailored to be flexible and move with your body. We currently recommend Revive Athletics, Girlfriend Collective, SuperFit Hero, Athleta and Marika, as well as big-box stores like Target, Wal-Mart and Old Navy who now carry extended sizing. Locally, Bethany highly recommends The Pencil Test for sports bras (in Portland and Seattle area). But come to class with whatever makes you feel the most comfortable.
What props will I need? Classes in studio provide all the props you need and yoga mats you can borrow. Props are not required, but really supportive and helpful in your practice. However, you don’t have to go out and spend lots of money to enjoy your practice. You can use what you have or invest in a mat, yoga strap, blocks, blanket(s) and a bolster. A sturdy chair without arms is great too. Check out this link for some great DIY yoga props. If you want to buy yoga props, check out Yoga Outlet. For a Yoga Mat, Bethany also highly recommends a Jade Yoga Mat. Mats and all props are available at the studio to borrow or for purchase during your class as well.
What if I don’t want to be on camera, for the live streamed classes? I only ask that you’re audible and visible for your very first class session, when we do introductions, rules of engagement and community building. So once it’s your turn to engage we’d love to greet you! Beyond that, each class you get the option of how you want to engage, visually, verbally or via chat, with the Bethany or the other students.
What if I don't want to be touched in an in-person class? YBB is a trauma informed class which means that hands on assists are only provided if the student verbally consents. Please let Bethany know whether or not you would like to be touched.