Unleash Your Inner Strength
Transform your body and mind with our restorative yoga classes.
Unleash Your Inner Strength
Transform your body and mind with our restorative yoga classes.
About Fat Boy Yoga
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Instructor
Hi! My name is Rashen Harris. About 12 years ago I reached my own emotional bottom in response to
my time in active duty. Struggling with PTSD took me to a dark place and, like many, I began self
medicating as a way of “dealing” with my trauma. Unfortunately, this took me to an even darker
place and I knew I couldn't be alone in feeling this way. This brings me to an image that stood out
I saw on my way home from Iraq. I was on the bus and out the window I saw a billboard that
advertised yoga, but it was different from the typical middle aged, housewife yoga, or at least
that's that crowd I envisioned yoga cultivating. This billboard was targeting individuals like
myself, as an approach to connecting and healing from experiences that have caused harm
emotionally, physically, and spiritually. There were even soldiers in uniforms pictured, which
began to change how I saw the practice just enough to give me willingness to give it a try.
I signed up for my first class at a space in Groton, CT and, although uncomfortable, I attended. I
had an abundance of doubt, however I also had the gift of desperation. I was surprised at how
quickly I began to feel at ease, relaxed even! With TBI, the environment I’m in has so much power
over my ability to be present in the space. The dimmed lights and gentle music provided me with an
initial feeling of peace, and the community of people presented themselves as kind and inviting
individuals, many of whom I could identify with. For the first time in a very long time I started
to let my guard down.
I left that experience feeling both humbled and inspired, wondering if this was something I could
take with me to share with others. The idea sat there, refusing to diminish like so many usually
do, so I made the next step and enrolled in my 200 YTT in 2016. Along with this certification, I
was enriched with the tools necessary to continue this journey. Most importantly, it has allowed me
to continue taking the steps necessary to embark on this next chapter: helping others.
Toward the end of my military career I had gained about 80lbs, bringing my weight up to 280lbs. I
was physically in a downward spiral and could no longer even keep up with my son. For me, physical
and mental health feed off of one another, impacting confidence and connection, and snowballing
into losing a sense of self. It is my passion to provide a space that everyone feels welcome, that
sways from society’s norm when perceiving yoga, allowing others like me to identify and have the
courage to participate in a practice that will support their journey. For this reason I have
decided to name this chapter, Fat Boy Yoga and feel honored to offer this healing practice to you.
For more info on classes and location:
@fat_boy_yoga
About Fat Boy Yoga
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
At Fat Boy Yoga, our mission is to provide high-quality yoga classes that are accessible to everyone. We believe that yoga can help improve physical and mental health, and we are committed to making it available to all.
Our Classes
Our Mission
Our Mission
We offer a variety of classes to suit different needs and preferences, including gentle, restorative, and yoga nidra. Our classes are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all, and we strive to create a safe and supportive space for everyone to practice. Classes are available at 22 Pennsylvania Ave. Suite 4 Niantic, Connecticut or we can come to you.
Hello
Welcome to Fat Boy Yoga Yoga
Join us for yoga classes that will help you improve your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Our experienced instructors will guide you through each session with personalized attention and support. Namaste!