Yoga group in Nairn is collaborating with a sports inclusion charity to open up opportunities for the LGBT+ community in the Highlands
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Fiona Palmer opened the Highland Yoga Collective studio in April 2020 and has been running a free LGBT+ class since February, working with Graham Munro of Leap in the Highlands.
Leap Scotland recently expanded to the region after working successfully in the central belt to open up opportunities for participation in sport and exercise for the LGBT+ community.
It aims to help existing community and sports groups work to improve inclusivity.
Ms Palmer said that when she opened the yoga studio it had always been intended to make it a community interest company, a status which it achieved in September last year.
The studio, she said, is as inclusive as she can make it for everyone.
“There was a need [for the class], so we applied to Scotland’s mental health and wellbeing fund and got some funding,” she said.
“Graham came here at the same time and has taught similar classes in Glasgow so everything came together.
“It’s been really good.
“We try and make it as inviting as possible because there’s nothing worse than feeling excluded somewhere.”
The class is hosted both online and in person.
Leap is planning to host a festival fortnight next month, with Fiona set to take part in running classes which she said she was very excited about taking part in.
Mr Munro said: “It means a lot to have a partner support our project so soon after launch and to have a safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTIQ+ people in the Highland area.”
