From Pain to Purpose: A story about my revelation in Whistler
There was a day in Whistler that will always stick with me. The year was 2016, and it was one of those perfect winter days on the mountain, and despite having recently sprained my ankle from an icy fall, I wasn’t about to let it stop me from having fun. I decided to go tubing down a hill, excited to embrace the snow and the thrill of the ride.
As I reached the bottom of the hill, I realized I needed a bit of help to get out of the tubing ring.
I asked a nearby staff member for assistance, expecting nothing more than a helping hand. Instead, I was met with a muttered comment that cut deep: “Why are you so fat then?”
He wasn’t wrong. I am fat.
And when he said that, it made me feel unwanted. He made me feel like I wasn’t just unwelcome on the mountain, but I was not welcome in Whistler. I was not welcome in my body. I was not welcome to life.
In that moment, a rush of anger surged through me. The sheer audacity of that remark sent me into a rage. But the more I fumed, the more helpless I felt. It was a vicious cycle of anger and vulnerability. It was -20°C outside and I was sweating from guilt and shame. I regretted coming to the mountain. I regretted choosing to do something fun. I wanted to disappear. The urge to disappear is a cruel form of desperation when you've spent your entire life feeling like you're taking up too much space.
It took a few weeks for my anger to fully subside. During that time, I did a lot of soul-searching and reflecting. I realized that there were very few spaces where all body shapes, sizes, and types were truly welcome without judgment. This realization struck a chord deep within me because no one deserves to feel less-than because of how they look.
I had been practicing yoga at home, too shy to join a studio for fear of what others might think of me. Yoga had always been my happy place, a place where I could connect with my body and find peace. Yet, I craved the sense of community that practicing in a studio offered. I decided that I wouldn’t let other people’s judgments hold me back any longer.
When I finally mustered the courage to attend yoga studios, I couldn’t help but notice that no one looked like me. The realization was both disheartening and motivating. I decided then and there that I would become “that” yoga teacher—the one who breaks the boundary and shows that yoga is for every body, regardless of size, shape, or ability.
Thin privilege is real and pervasive. It’s the unearned advantages that come with being in a smaller body, such as fitting into airplane seats comfortably, finding clothes that fit, and, yes, avoiding snide remarks about your body when asking for help - or for just...existing. It’s important to recognize these privileges and actively work towards promoting body positivity and inclusivity.
Yoga is not about having a certain type of body. It’s about connecting with yourself, finding your balance, and embracing your journey. Your access to a supportive, welcoming community should not be a privilege reserved for certain body types.
This belief is at the very heart of why Jai and I started Jai Yoga Studio. We wanted to create a space where everyone—regardless of their size, shape, or ability—felt welcome and accepted. Jai Yoga Studio is more than just a place to practice yoga; it’s a community where all bodies are celebrated, and everyone is encouraged to find their own path to wellness.
My experience in Whistler was painful, but it led me to a greater understanding of the importance of inclusivity and body positivity. Jai Yoga Studio is my way of ensuring that no one else has to feel the way I did that day. It’s a place where every body is welcome, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Parting thoughts...
Every experience, no matter how painful, can be a catalyst for growth and change. The harsh judgment I faced that day in Whistler showed me that my purpose in life is to create a space where EVERYONE feels welcome and valued. Jai Yoga Studio is a testament to the belief that yoga is for every body, and community should be accessible to all, regardless of size, shape, or ability.
Painful experiences can actually teach us how to challenge the norms, break down barriers, and promote inclusivity in every aspect of our lives. However, you need to choose whether or not you want this painful experience to elevate you, or not.
Whether you come to Jai Yoga Studio regularly or you're cheering for us from a distance, I hope that every interaction you have with us makes you feel seen, validated and celebrated.
With love,
Prem
