Now having practiced yoga for nearly a decade, Stanley walked into their journey to being a yogi during graduate school when they were asked to join a class by one of their white friends.

Startled by the invitation, Stanley said they were immediately doubtful of the impact it could have on their well-being.

Eventually convinced to join by their friend, Stanley went and noticed they were the only fat person and one of the only Black people in the room, making the overall session seem impossible.

I couldn't practice any of the postures," Stanley said.

"Even just to sit with my legs crossed hurt, postures like 'child's pose' seemed impossible to me."