Workshop: Yoga & Trauma: Healing

This year we've introduced a lot more yoga classes to our schedule & expanded our outreach. We are currently working with cancer survivors, those escaping domestic abuse & those healing from trauma. Yoga is so beneficial for those coping with or coming out of trauma, but it's important that it's approached in a different way to other classes. Yoga is a release & with that can bring up a lot of emotions. We like to take a trauma informed approach, creating a safe space for people to move & flow through their feelings without shame. Come as you are, all are welcome.

Yoga can be a valuable tool for individuals healing from trauma, as it offers a holistic approach that addresses both the body and mind. However, it's essential to approach trauma-sensitive yoga with caution and preferably under the guidance of a qualified instructor or mental health professional. Here are some aspects of yoga that can be beneficial for healing trauma:

1. Trauma-Informed Yoga Classes: Seek out classes specifically designed for trauma survivors. In these classes, instructors are trained to create a safe and supportive environment, using language and postures that are sensitive to individuals with trauma histories.
   

2. Gentle Asanas: Focus on gentle and restorative yoga postures that promote relaxation and grounding. These poses can help release tension stored in the body and provide a sense of safety.
   

3. Mindful Breathing: Incorporate pranayama (breathing exercises) to help regulate the nervous system. Mindful breathing can promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and increase body awareness.
   

4. Mindfulness Meditation: Practice mindfulness meditation to cultivate present-moment awareness. This can help individuals reconnect with their bodies and develop a sense of control over their thoughts and emotions.
   

5. Body Awareness: Trauma often leads to disconnection from the body. Yoga encourages individuals to be present with bodily sensations without judgment, fostering a gradual reconnection with the physical self.
   

6. Self-Compassion Practices: Integrate self-compassion and self-care practices into your yoga routine. Cultivating self-compassion can be crucial in the healing process.
   

7. Yoga Nidra: Also known as yogic sleep, Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation that promotes deep relaxation. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with trauma-related symptoms.