Living in Ubud, Bali for four years, I've woven myself into a vibrant tapestry of experiences. Yoga classes, community gatherings, cacao ceremonies, women's circles, meditations, and festivals have become my playground.

I've cleansed myself in sacred water temples, reveled under full moons, and even led transformative yoga retreats designed to empower women to rewrite their narratives, reconnect with ancient feminine self-care practices, set powerful intentions, and experience profound personal growth. My journey has been a kaleidoscope of experiences, but one truth remains constant: I am a multi-faceted being, and being a size zero isn't one of them.

My body is a marvel—yes, a MARVEL in all caps. It allows me to walk, run, swim, dance with wild abandon, connect intimately, belt out a tune, savor delicious food, sweat it out, shimmy and shake, and, of course, practice yoga with gusto. But embracing this incredible vessel took time. Years of self-criticism, restrictive diets, and juice cleanses eventually dissolved into an unconditional love that whispers, "I am here. I am worthy. I am perfect exactly as I am."

Standing out as the curviest woman in a yoga class, determined to make a positive impact in a world often fixated on a narrow beauty standard, can bring unwanted scrutiny. Judgments can sting, implying I don't value myself, my incredible body, or my spiritual potential.

And guess what? I'm not alone. Countless women reach out on social media, expressing feelings of inadequacy and exclusion in yoga spaces. They question their right to connect with their divine selves, celebrate their unique forms, and explore their physicality because of societal expectations.

But here's the truth bomb: when did our ability to connect with our bodies become contingent on achieving a specific level of flexibility or looking flawless in yoga attire for Instagram? Yoga's essence lies in the harmonious union of mind, body, spirit, and breath. This sacred connection transcends the size of any body part—except maybe our amazing lungs, which thankfully fit perfectly in a supportive sports bra and yoga pants (hallelujah!).

Society often tells us our worth is tied to our appearance, how youthful we look, and our attractiveness. But true spirituality and yoga are about cultivating a deep sense of self-awareness and embracing our emotions. Here's a powerful question to ponder: How does your body truly feel?

The way you look is irrelevant. What matters most is how your body feels and how you feel inhabiting it. How does it feel to express your authentic self and be heard? To breathe life into neglected areas of your body? To forge a connection with your higher purpose?

There's no singular path to express your creativity, cultivate genuine connections, or embrace the multifaceted nature of being a woman. And the same holds true for yoga – a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't exist. Forcing yourself into a mold you weren't meant for will hinder your journey. Seek a space that celebrates your body, your spirit, and your unique story.

Yoga Retreats: A Sanctuary for Every Woman

Yoga retreats are a haven designed to welcome women of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. They offer a unique opportunity to step away from the daily grind and immerse yourself in a supportive community where you can deepen your yoga practice and strengthen your connection to yourself. Whether you're a yoga newbie or a seasoned practitioner, retreats provide a nurturing environment for profound growth.

Many retreats focus on themes that resonate with plus-sized yogis, such as self-love, body positivity, and cultivating a deep spiritual connection. These retreats often incorporate a variety of activities beyond yoga postures, including meditation sessions, empowering workshops, and rejuvenating nature excursions. They are meticulously designed to help you reconnect with your body, mind, and spirit in a holistic way.

Yoga Teacher Training: Empower Yourself Through Education

For those seeking to elevate their practice to a whole new level, yoga teacher training programs offer an immersive and transformative learning experience. These programs go beyond simply teaching you how to lead a yoga class; they are a gateway to personal transformation. A yoga teacher training delves deeply into yoga philosophy, anatomy, and explores a variety of yoga styles. It equips you with the tools and knowledge to share the gift of yoga with others while simultaneously deepening your own practice.

Participating in a yoga teacher training program can be a powerful catalyst for building unwavering confidence and fostering a deeper understanding of yoga's multifaceted nature. It's an opportunity to challenge yourself physically and mentally, embrace the incredible vessel you inhabit, and discover innovative ways to connect with yourself and others.

Embrace Your Light: The Final Takeaway

Yoga retreats and yoga teacher training programs are invaluable resources for women seeking to cultivate a sense of well-being (physical, mental, and emotional). They provide a space for all women to celebrate their bodies, connect with their inner selves, and cultivate a sense of belonging and empowerment. Yoga isn't just about physical postures; it's a holistic practice that can improve flexibility, strength, and balance. It can also reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and promote feelings of peace and well-being."

Are you ready to embark on your own transformative journey? Explore yoga retreats and yoga teacher trainings, or search online for programs that resonate with you. Remember, yoga is for every BODY, and that beautiful body of yours is more than welcome.