Yoga and the Fuller Figure!

Author: Patricia Parsons

Contrary to popular belief, Hatha yoga is not just for the slim and limber. With a few basic modifications those with curvy fuller figures can benefit greatly from joys of yoga. Some of which are increased flexibility, balance, strength, and stress reduction to name a few.

Since beginning my yogic journey, I have found that I am stronger, more flexible and certainly less stressed. I have found an increased awareness in my own body that was lacking before I started doing yoga. An awareness that has grounded me both mentally, spiritually and physically.

Recently I had my yearly physical. To my amazement, my blood pressure was down from 150/88 to 130/70. My cholesterol came down from 3.8 to 2.4, and mostly to my surprise, when I was measured for height, I found I grew a half inch! What is even more shocking is that all my life I have suffered with slight scoliosis and at my age was expecting to start hearing you are loosing height no gaining!

This got me to thinking. I am not really loosing weight by just doing yoga. And never will until I control my diet and add some cardio to my life. But do you really need to be skinny to be fit? Does good health only come in thin packages? With about half the Canadian population labeled obese and overweight, is there hope that we can become fit and reduce the overall strain on our health care system?

I like to think so. As I age, I am starting to look at ways to live if not longer, at least the best quality of life I can into my golden years. Yoga is affording me the opportunity to do just that. It will keep my mind sharp, help me to focus, and keep me limber enough to carry my own groceries well into the later years of my life. Fuller figured or not!

Full figured yoga instructor
Parmi Yoga
www.parmiyoga.com