Fran Astino

(she/her)

Fran Astino is a queer, fat, tattooed yoga teacher and student. Fran offers various services outside of group yoga classes, including private yoga and sound meditation sessions. She also holds ceremonial circles on the New and Full Moon. Fran is passionate about building intentional mindfulness practices that feel good to the individual, because there is no one size fits all approach to wellness.

In 2021, Fran completed her 200-hour yoga teacher training program at Balance Studio, which laid the groundwork for a transformative exploration that extended beyond the physical practice. After completing the training, she realized that she still had a lot to learn about yoga philosophy and how to cue for all bodies, so she spent 2021-2022 deepening her study.

In 2023, Fran completed a 75-hour continuing education program led by Michelle C. Johnson, a dismantling racism trainer and yoga teacher. This specialized training equipped Fran with the tools to foster an environment where yoga not only nurtures the body but aligns with principles of equity and justice. She learned more about the needs of marginalized communities within the yoga space and has made it her mission to ensure that she creates as safe a space as possible for BIPOC, trans, and gender diverse folks.

Fran’s yoga journey is a testament to the belief that everyone deserves a space to explore and celebrate their unique identities. She takes pride in creating a safe and supportive environment, offering a place for those who have been historically underrepresented in the yoga world. Fran understands the power of yoga and its potential to transcend societal norms, opening doors for everyone, regardless of shape, size, background, or past experiences.

Fran’s personal mission goes beyond conventional yoga boundaries. She firmly believes that yoga is for everybody and every BODY, and is committed to dismantling barriers that hinder accessibility. In a yoga landscape that often lacks representation, Fran finds it most important to operate on an accessible payment model, ensuring that financial considerations never become a barrier to experiencing the benefits of yoga. Becoming a part of the Collective has felt so aligned to Fran’s mission, as they offer financial accessibility options and scholarships to those who need it.

Learn more about Fran at franastinoconsulting.com // IG @franastinoconsulting

Read the blog post: Fran’s Spotlight

Credentials:

• RYT 200 - Vinyasa Yoga

  • Balance Studio, Cohasset, MA

• 75 Hour Skill in Action Continuing Education Program

  • Michelle C Johnson, Online