INCLUSIVITY + ACCESSIBILITY
- HFX Movement Collective
- May 15, 2019
- 2 min read
Our first pillar in the HFX Movement Collective is Inclusivity.
We strongly believe there is a practice to suit every body who chooses to practice movement and/or mindfulness. We also believe teachers and practitioners should be ready and willing to welcome everyone to class, regardless of age, race, gender, income, or bodytype. And most importantly, we believe in empowering every student to exercise their right to practice and choose their practices responsibly.
This is a broad and important topic to cover, so in our video, Ginny and Ashley discuss the varying ways teachers and students can feel more comfortable and welcomed in public group classes.
Key takeaways:
1. Teachers: write honest and informative class descriptions so that no potential student is left wondering if the class is appropriate for them. Students: read class descriptions and be honest with your level of ability and comfort with whats offered.
2. Get to know each other! Form a friendship so that both of you can talk about challenges and goals, learn about the others' experience, and grow together in the practice. The more we know each other, the better the practice will be.
3. Environment is just as important as class content. Teachers: set up the space so that it's welcoming in terms of mobility, sensory sensitivities, religious/spiritual beliefs, and keep it gender neutral. Unless you are specifically catering to one demographic, keep in mind what it would be like to practice from varying perspectives of age, gender, race, religion, economic status, and bodytype. Students: get to know the space in terms of props, bathrooms, and exits, and know you're always welcome to provide feedback on any aspect of a space you choose to practice within.
At the HFX Movement Collective, we hope to broaden and shift perspectives on what a community studio can be: a space to grow, to learn, to connect, to feel safe, to nourish, and to welcome anyone who chooses to show up and move!
We have classes for those who like to sweat, those who like to sit, people with visual impairment, folks who prioritize their mental health, and even teens who are curious about yoga. If you don't see a class for you, let us know or recommend us a teacher in our community so we can reach out to them. All of our teachers are independent practitioners and take care of their own schedule and students - we are always welcoming to include more teachers!
Keep it easy, and thanks for watching.
Ash
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