Yoga for trauma
Overcoming trauma through yoga
When we experience trauma, it is not just the mind that is affected. The body is too. Having a body can often feel unfamiliar or even unsafe, and so our minds can easily disconnect. That can make experiencing life challenging. One way to move towards recovery is to reconnect and reclaim the body as our own through trauma sensitive and trauma informed yoga & movement.
Yoga for trauma looks and feels quite different to a typical yoga class. It is specifically designed with trauma survivors in mind, and is focused on creating a safe, predictable and non-judgemental space to explore “having a body” and finding ways to reconnect with the physical container we inhabit.
I offer a range of small group classes and individual sessions for those that have experienced, lived through or survived trauma, as well as those that work with people impacted by trauma.
Depending on the type of trauma you have experienced and who you are, different types of yoga/movement for trauma will suit. Trauma Sensitive Yoga is specifically for survivors of complex trauma and/or PTSD. Trauma Informed Yoga/Movement may be more suitable for those that have experienced other forms of trauma.
Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) | Trauma Informed Yoga
Book a free initial call
If you’re unsure which yoga practice is most suitable for your experience of trauma, please reach out to arrange a free 30 minute chat. This allows us to talk about how my work can best support you (or your patients/clients if you’re a clinician). These calls are confidential and you are under no obligation to move forward.
FAQs
What’s the difference between TCTSY and TIY?
TCTSY is a specific intervention/adjunct therapy for those who have experienced complex trauma or complex PTSD. There is a defined way of working that is boundaried and structured within that specific modality. If you don’t fit into the traditional categories of what would be considered complex trauma/PTSD, Trauma Informed Yoga may be more suitable. The process is similar (invitation language, choice-making, shared authentic relationships, no hands-on) but is less formal and less clinical as it can evolve more freely.
What should I wear to a session?
- Comfortable clothing so you feel like you can move. It doesn’t need to be a traditional ‘yoga’ outfit but avoid clothing that’s restrictive of movement (ie. tight jeans).
- Light layers that you can add or remove as the temperature in the space can fluctuate.
Can you come to my house?
It’s not practical to have Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and/or Trauma-Informed Yoga sessions in your own home (unless we’re working together remotely online). If you have mobility issues or accessibility issues contact me and we can discuss the possibility of remote work. This practice is about sharing a space.
Is this like a normal yoga class?
Although we might explore some yoga forms, Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and Trauma Informed Yoga are not your typical yoga class. Here are some differences you might notice:
I will not use directive element (it’s about making choices through invitation). This can be different if you’re used to a typical studio-based yoga class where you’re being directed. For those of us that are looking to gain more agency, being asked to make choices can feel unusual or even challenging. This is something we work with this.
I don’t use Sanskrit, the language of yoga, in these sessions.
I don’t refer to religious or cultural iconography (no chanting, symbols etc.).
The practice of Hatha Yoga inspires all my yoga teaching
Is this yoga?
Yoga, for me, is about creating a deeper connection with ourselves, the world around us and how we relate to one another. It is more something that is within us all, rather than something we strive for. In this practice, we will come into yoga shapes and forms but the process is different. For those of us that have experienced trauma, it can be challenging to explore new spaces like a yoga studio, particularly if we’re not sure what to expect from a yoga class. Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and Trauma Informed Yoga offer a more comfortable place to explore yoga and begin to befriend your body.
What can come up in Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and/or Trauma-Informed Yoga?
When we work with the body in the aftermath of trauma, things can come up. Unfamiliar or new feelings and sensations may arise that can generate difficult emotions that are uncomfortable. As we’re primarily working with the body, the mind also needs its own space to process, which is why it’s important that you have access to talking therapy in a professional context if you’re engaging in TCTSY. Similar experiences may arise in Trauma Informed Yoga and while there’s not such a strict protocol, it’s still valuable to have a trusted confidante, family member or friend who can support you.
How long will it take to notice a difference?
Each of us is unique and so our experience with processing trauma will be unique too. You may notice changes in months or even years; it depends where you are in the process. If you’ve engaged with therapy in the past, this can help move you on to a new phase in learning to manage trauma. But things will change, or you’ll notice a shift in your body. Our experiences with trauma fluctuates over time so you may revisit the practice to support you when you need it.
Will Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and/or Trauma-Informed Yoga fix me?
No. I believe that experiences of trauma bend but do not break us. You are not broken and so you do not need ‘fixing’. More importantly, you hold the key to any healing that happens, not me or any other ‘expert.’ You know yourself and your body better than I or anyone else ever could. Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and Trauma-Informed Yoga are not about fixing or healing. When we’re dealing with trauma, we are in a continual process with it. However, the process of TCTSY has shown that some of the symptoms of trauma will become milder or you’ll be better able to manage them.