I don’t know the what, when, where, why and how, but, somewhere along the line, we were told that our bodies weren’t good enough. We were told that we should cover-up, hide from the world, if we weren’t a certain body type. Well, forget that!

Far too much emphasis is put on what other people think. The emphasis should be placed on how you feel. We work out to build confidence and feel good about our bodies. Why don’t we celebrate what we work so hard for?

I am not a size two. My stomach does not lie flat, my thighs are bigger than they used to be, and my shoulders are broad. But that stomach supports me in plank pose when my yoga instructor decides we should hold it there for three minutes. My thighs power my legs as I dodge tree roots and rocks when sprinting through mountain trails. Those broad shoulders of mine propel me along length after length in the swimming pool. I work hard. And, if I want to wear a sports bra while I’m out for my morning run, I’m going to, and I don’t see why anyone should have a problem with that.

There’s no size restriction on beauty and confidence. Dare to bare a little skin. Show off your muscles, your curves. Wear that sports bra and those short shorts.

Don’t look to others for approval. Be the confidence you’re searching for.

Love your body.

you asked

I have been attending yoga classes for 4 months now, and recently the class has added more forward folds than before. I’ve been getting really intense headaches by the end of the class that will continue into the evening. This is something that has just happened since the routine of the class has changed. Why do you think this is? What can I do to prevent the headaches while still keeping up with the class/getting the most out of it? Thank-you!!
- Jennifer

a yogi answers

Interesting.... the most common headaches are just a sign of dehydration so this is where I would begin your inquiry. If you feel your headaches are a direct result of the poses you are doing then something is not working for you. You may be pinching a nerve or just simply cutting the blood flow off which is common in people who hold a lot of tension in their shoulders. Stay present to the tension and stress you may be holding in your shoulders and if these new variations of poses are creating more tension then switch it up. Your breath is an amazing tool to detect if it is tension or not. If you are not able to relax into the moment then your breath with will be short and stifled and odds are you are hardening in the pose. When your breath is flowing with ease, you will find that you can hold your poses and shoulders with less tightness therefore relieving any shoulder tension.
- Kinndli, lululemon Oakville ambassador

what is ask a yogi?

Ask a Yogi is a yoga advice column that is published on Monday, Wednesday and Saturdays. If you have a yoga question for future yoga panels, please email askanexpert@lululemon.com.

you asked

I’ve been practicing for 10 years and have been trying to hold a handstand for 10 years. I feel like I have enough shoulder strength but don’t feel like I am balancing myself in the right way. Any advice or tips would be very helpful. Thanks! - Patricia

a yogi answers

Dear Patricia,

Don’t give up! Make sure you are pressing through the knuckles of your fingers and drawing energy up though your palms - keep little pockets of air in your palms. Make sure your core and legs are engaged. I usually fall out of balance if I hyperextend my lower ribs, so make sure they are nicely contained within your torso along with your belly. Find some softness through your shoulders (joints), ensuring you are not locking them, focusing on your upper arm strength.

- Grace, lululemon Queen St. ambassador

Do you have any tips or advice for Patricia to hold a strong and balanced handstand?