Despite what you may think, yoga is for every body! Larger women can experience freedom, comfort, strength, and mobility in their bodies through the practice of yoga, and Big & Bold: Yoga for the Plus-Size Woman shows you how.

This book provides clear instructions for safely performing 43 poses (asanas) in a variety of seated, kneeling, standing, reclined, and restorative positions. Poses feature multiple options for body positioning and prop usage, so you can choose the variations and make the adjustments that work best for your body, without forcing it into a potentially dangerous position.

Whether you are new to the world of yoga or simply seeking guidance on practicing in the comfort of your own home, the sample sequences including clear examples on how to assemble the poses and breathing exercises for maximum benefits are invaluable. Sequences targeting specific objectives are also provided, with four energizing practices and four relaxing practices organized as 10-, 30-, and 60-minute practices. You'll also find recommendations for comfortable clothing and learn how to get creative with yoga props to add some fun to your practice and make poses more comfortable.

Throughout the book, author Laura Burns shares her story of how she developed a love of yoga, discovering how it can be an empowering and wonderful way to move your body and celebrate what it can do at any size. With Big & Bold: Yoga for the Plus-Size Woman, you will find the guidance, motivation, and inspiration to experience all the physical and mental benefits yoga has to offer. Yoga is meant for every body.

CE exam available! For certified professionals, a companion continuing education exam can be completed after reading this book. Big & Bold: Yoga for the Plus-Size Woman CE Exam may be purchased separately or as part of Big & Bold: Yoga for the Plus-Size Woman With CE Exam package that includes both the book and the exam.

Laura Burns is a Yoga Alliance Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 200) and a certified provider of Yoga Alliance Continuing Education hours. She holds a certification with Curvy Yoga and is a certified instructor with Accessible Yoga and Punk Rock Hoops. She is a community partner with the Yoga and Body Image Coalition and the creator of the HoopAsana and Radical Body Love yoga philosophies and practices.

Burns is a leader in the world of plus-size yoga and has studied with a number of recognized experts in the field of size-inclusive yoga, including Anna Guest-Jelley (Curvy Yoga) and Abby Lentz (HeavyWeight Yoga). In addition to training with these mentors, she continues to attend workshops and trainings on a variety of yoga disciplines, teaching techniques, and innovations in props and support. She has been interviewed for or authored a number of magazine articles, blog posts, podcasts, and television spots.


Part I. Set for Success
Chapter 1. Start With Confidence!
Chapter 2. Get Your Gear

Part II. Get Moving
Chapter 3. Warming Up and Breathing Exercises
Chapter 4. Seated and Kneeling Poses
Chapter 5. Standing Poses
Chapter 6. Reclined Poses
Chapter 7. Restorative Poses

Part III. Make a Plan
Chapter 8. Creating a Home Practice Plan
Chapter 9. Energizing Practices
Chapter 10. Relaxing Practices