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Growing up as the chubby kid was not fun. Not only did I get teased in school, I was also raised to hide my tummy. I was even given shaping underwear at a young age. That’s how it was back in the 80’s. Women who were larger bodied tucked in their tummy with uncomfortable underwear. Their clothes were baggy as a way to “compliment” their size. And there was no “cool” clothes in plus size. Either you wore grandma looking clothes or you dressed like a man. From the moment I met Accalia I fell in love with the “Tribal fusion” type of Bellydance. I sensed her loving personality and knew that I was in good hands. Without hesitation, I signed up for her Beginner and Choreography classes! I thought it was something I was going to teach in my dance fitness class....Little did I know it was going to be part of my journey to love myself. A few of my moments during these past 12 weeks: 🙈Mirrors!!!! This class room has mirrors. It wasn’t that bad... until I decided to practice in my bra. All the parts that I was raised to hide are now out for everyone including myself to see and stare at everyday. After a few weeks I realized that It was in my best interest to practice without a shirt. (Not mandatory, but it helps when practicing) Not to mention giving up my compression tights for more comfortable stretchy pants.... letting it all hang out. 🙌 One class the teacher said “ok partner up”. I was so nervous! It was school all over again! Who is going to dance with the fat one? One of the students came running up to me across the room... I’d love to dance with you! On the inside I was crying with joy! 😭 Not only did we totally nail the move we were practicing together,... but I made a new friend! She is not the only beautiful human being I met during these past 12 weeks..... what an amazing supportive environment the class turned out to be! I have learned that the Bellydance community is accepting and loving. The lesson for me in this... -Don’t ever let your fears or insecurities hold you back from doing something you have always wanted to do! -Instead of viewing the parts of your body you don’t like as flaws.... feed your body Love! Learn to love those parts. Send those parts positive energy instead of negative energy. Your body deserves it! Photo credit: Accalia Bellydance 
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 To prep everyone and set the tone for my yoga class I created some fundamentals to follow.
➡️😃This extra extroverted gal is going to be herself as a yoga instructor. Yes you got it! And for those that know me, or who have come to my dance fitness classes would you expect any less? 🤷♀️😂 😌1) Be yourself. This is a private studio. A relaxed space. It’s ok to laugh, make a joke or two, or even swear. Just be yourself. If in the future I decide to host a movement meditation or healing class I’ll be clear what type of atmosphere to expect. For this beginner class, be comfortable- be you! 💩2)Shit Happens. It’s true. I learnt it in my training. As we stretch and move we get our organs going especially our bowels. Sometimes a fart just comes out. And if you smell someone’s else’s... well this is a great time to practice mindfulness and turn off your sense of smell and turn on other senses. 😭3)Exhale the bullshit. We are told at our workplace “leave it at the door”. It’s easier said than done. We are humans, not robots 🤖 . We have emotions that can’t always be switched off. Exercise is healing. If your laughing or crying it’s healing. In my class, don’t be afraid to shed a tear or to giggle. I will be joining you..lol. ❤️4)Be kind to yourself and others. First, be kind to yourself. Your body does amazing things for you everyday! It’s because of your body that you can go enjoy life! Don’t get angry if you can’t get a move right. Sometimes it just takes practice. Focus on the positive of what you can do, and look at everything else as a healthy challenge. Be kind to others. We are all here sharing this space. Let’s be positive and encourage each other. 😴5)It’s ok to fall asleep during meditation. Be prepared for 10 min of meditation/resting. It’s a sacred, safe and blessed space-you might be so relaxed you fall asleep. And that’s ok. I will make sure to have yoga mat cleaner handy for people who drool like myself. I am really looking forward to learning and growing as a yoga instructor. And I am so happy to share this time with all of you. I’d like to do a special shout out to Sheri Boyce Evolve Spiritual Services. I am very thankful for the studio space 🙏. And I’d like to thank Sheri for teaching me to be authentic and just be me. If anyone is interested in Sheri’s Spiritual Development Courses please message her for details. #yogainstructor #plussizeyogainstructor #beyou #bodypositiveyoga#fitnessforeverybody |
AuthorBernie Feakes ArchivesCategories |
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