The wellness industry is very different than it used to be. In recent years, it has undergone a transformative shift toward inclusion, driven by advocates promoting diversity and accessibility in health and wellness practices. These advocates come from diverse backgrounds and communities. They challenge stereotypes, break down barriers and create spaces where everyone feels welcome and empowered to prioritize their own well-being. Here are some inspiring voices making a big impact.
Jessamine Stanley
Jessamyn Stanley is a renowned advocate for inclusivity in the yoga community, reshaping the way people think about who can practice and benefit from it. She is a coach, author, and body positivity advocate who challenges the traditional image of yoga as a practice exclusively for slim, flexible bodies. Instead, she promotes it as a tool for self-acceptance and empowerment for individuals of all shapes, sizes, and abilities.
Her approach encourages practitioners to embrace their bodies and unique journeys, creating a sense of belonging in often exclusive wellness spaces. Through her influential platform, Jessamyn has revolutionized yoga and sparked critical conversations about diversity and representation in the health community.
She has built a loyal following on social media and in her books, where she shares her personal experiences and insights into practicing yoga as a plus-size woman of color. By sharing her journey openly and authentically, Jessamyn has inspired countless people to reclaim their space and find their own strength and confidence in a yoga studio.
In addition to her work as a lecturer, Jessamyn is an active advocate for inclusivity at all levels of health. She continues to challenge industry norms and expand the definition of a yogi, emphasizing that yoga is ultimately about inner peace, mindfulness, and self-acceptance.
Sophie Butler
Sophie Butler’s journey is a story of resilience in the face of adversity. Sophie was paralyzed from the waist down in a life-changing gym accident aged just 23, but refused to let her disability dampen her love of fitness.
The accident may have marked the end of her fitness journey. However, Sophie’s determination to regain her physical and mental health led her back to the gym. With her father’s support, she overcame the logistical challenges of exercising in a wheelchair-accessible environment, gradually adapting to her exercises and regaining her confidence.
With her experience and newfound perspective, Sophie becomes an inspiration to the fitness community. She has embraced the role of fitness influencer, using her platform to challenge disability stereotypes and demonstrate the possibilities of adaptive exercise. Through social media and personal advocacy, Sophie proves that being disabled does not mean being incapable. Disability is defined as a condition that significantly limits one or more major aspects of life. However, many people prefer to define their disability on their own terms.
Sophie’s journey from fitness enthusiast to disability advocate resonated deeply with viewers, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in healthy spaces. Her story is a reminder that determination and a supportive community can help others overcome challenges and achieve fitness goals, regardless of physical limitations.
Katara McCarty
Katara McCarty is a leader in the wellness industry known for her passionate advocacy for mental health and inclusion, especially in marginalized communities. She founded EXHALE, a wellness app designed for Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color (BIWOC). She has made significant progress in addressing the unique challenges these groups have in accessing mental health resources. Her work highlights the importance of creating safe, supportive spaces where individuals can nurture their mental and emotional well-being.
Motivated by her own experience and the gaps she identified in the wellness industry, Katara launched EXHALE to provide culturally relevant tools and practices. The app offers a range of resources including guided meditations, breathing exercises and affirmations, all tailored to resonate with BIWOC.
She believes that these tools should be available to everyone regardless of race or religion, as everyone can benefit from an increased sense of happiness and contentment. Katara’s platform focuses on the specific needs and experiences of these communities. It helps users cope with stress, trauma and daily stress, encouraging empowerment and self-care.
Katara’s influence extends beyond her app—she’s also a sought-after speaker and thought leader, regularly engaging in conversations about racial equity, mental health, and self-care. She advocates for healthy spaces that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive.
Create a space for everyone
As these advocates continue to challenge norms and advocate for inclusivity, the world of wellness is evolving into a more welcoming and diverse space. Their efforts benefit historically excluded individuals and enrich the entire health community by broadening perspectives and promoting the overall well-being of all.
