Trauma Informed Yoga

What is Trauma Informed Yoga?

Trauma Informed Yoga is a practice that takes into consideration the complex and individual impact that trauma has on the body and mind. It is taught from a place of respect, understanding and empathy to allow you to explore sensations and thoughts in a safe and respectful space.

The focus of this type of yoga is not perfecting a pose or finding perfect alignment; rather to reconnect the body and mind, exploring how poses feel within the body and allowing you the choice in what and how you hold a pose. You will be invited to remain present in sensations as they arise while given the freedom to step back from the practice at any time.

Key principles of a trauma informed yoga class are:

Choice- Trauma informed yoga emphasises your choice and control over your own practice. You will be encouraged to listen to your body and will have the freedom to opt out of any positions that do not feel comfortable or safe.

Safety. We will create a safe, non-judgemental space where you can feel both physically and emotionally safe. You will be offered options throughout the class to modify poses or practice in a way that feels right for your body.

Compassion. You will be encouraged to practice self-compassion and self-acceptance within your practice, accepting your body and mind as it is in the present.

Mind- Body Connection- This practice is centred on building mind body connection as part of the process of healing from trauma. This includes mindfulness, body awareness and grounding techniques to assist you in recognising physical sensations as they arise.

Gentleness and Patience. This practice allows gentle movement and progression, allowing each person to work at their own pace. You will be guided to practice self-care rather than encouraged into intense physical postures and sensations.

Trauma informed yoga can be used for several reasons including:

Recovering from a traumatic event
Improving body awareness
Emotional regulation and stress reduction
Self-empowerment and confidence
Improving mental health

If you would like to know more or join a class get in contact with our Accredited Exercise Physiologist