Trauma Informed Yoga
Trauma Informed Yoga is not only for the physically agile. It does not demand skill or perfection. It is not competitive. Instead, with a strong emphasis on invitation and choice, its strength is in starting to bridge the disconnect between body and mind that some survivors experience.
“Memories of sexual violence may be intrusive and present challenges to survivors. Harbouring these memories may also make it hard to establish connections in their lives, and regain the ability to trust. Trauma Informed Yoga, whether chosen as a standalone service, or integrated with therapy, offers survivors the opportunity to reconnect seemingly disconnected aspects of themselves, to rebuild as a whole.”
Adapted from Transcending Sexual Trauma Through Yoga — Zabie Yamasaki
This mind–body–spirit practice combines physical movement with mindful focus on the internal awareness of one’s breath, energy, and self. It is a place of safety where you may begin to get to know, listen to and slowly start to re-inhabit the body. The gentle stretches and movements help to release trauma stored in the body. It allows the mind to experience the body through movement, while the body helps the mind to experience a sense of safety through movement.
Regular practice fosters presence, awareness, self-regulation and self-acceptance. The meditative nature of yoga allows the body to create a gentle state of relaxation, which sends calming signals to the hyper vigilant mind. It is a place to find stillness and peace, to practice soothing and quietening the mind.
Delivered within a small group, our 8-week trauma informed yoga programme emphasises personal empowerment, choice and control. The programme aims to support survivors in regaining a sense of self, promoting self-care, fostering a gentle mind to body connection. Survivors report increased strength and stability in their bodies, increased confidence and self-esteem, trust in self and others. All sessions are trauma-informed, delivered by a fully certified trauma-informed Yoga Instructor and carefully tailored to meet the specific needs of sexual violence and abuse survivors making it safe, effective and accessible.
This is a donations based service available only to women using another one of our services.
Availability in your locality is based on demand. We will keep a register of men interested in forming a separate class. If there is enough interest, we will run a class.
Dr Bessel van der Kolk – How Yoga Helps with Trauma
To learn more, you are warmly invited to contact our Trauma Informed Yoga Instructor by email here.