Why Trauma Informed Yoga is so Relevant these Days

Trauma informed yoga is a growing trend in the yoga world, and for good reason. 

Trauma affects millions of people, and the effects can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, physical pain, and a host of other issues. 

Yoga, on the other hand, has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental and physical health, making it an ideal practice for those who have experienced trauma. In this blog post, we’ll explore why trauma informed yoga is so relevant these days and how it can help people heal and move forward in their lives.

Trauma is defined as any experience that has a lasting and negative impact on a person’s mental and physical well-being. This can include experiences like abuse, neglect, natural disasters, and even exposure to violence. The effects of trauma can be far-reaching and long-lasting, impacting a person’s relationships, work, and overall quality of life.

One of the ways that trauma can manifest is through physical pain and discomfort. This can include chronic headaches, back pain, and other physical symptoms. 

Trauma Informed Yoga has been shown to be effective in reducing physical pain and discomfort, making it a great choice for those who have experienced trauma.

Another way that trauma can impact a person’s life is through anxiety and depression. These conditions can make it difficult for a person to enjoy life and connect with others. Trauma Informed Yoga has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, making it an ideal choice for those who have experienced trauma.

One of the reasons why trauma informed yoga is so relevant these days is because it recognizes the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for those who have experienced trauma and the value of a supportive community.

In a traditional yoga class, the focus is on physical postures and breathing techniques, but in a trauma informed class, the focus is on creating a nurturing space where students feel safe, supported, seen and respected. We intentionally avoid the use of triggering language and emphasize invitational language.

Trauma informed yoga also focuses on empowering students to make choices that are best for their own healing.

This means that students are encouraged to move at their own pace and to listen to their bodies.

If a posture or breathing technique doesn’t feel safe or comfortable, they are encouraged to explore other options. They are also encouraged to listen to their bodies and take as many breaks as needed. This is not a performative practice.  

Another important aspect of trauma informed yoga is the emphasis on mindfulness and self-awareness. Through mindfulness and self-awareness, students can learn to recognize and process their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. This can help them understand their experiences in a deeper and more meaningful way, and can provide them with the tools they need to move forward in their lives and become resilient.

Finally, trauma informed yoga is relevant because it recognizes the importance of community and support. 

When people have experienced trauma, they can feel isolated and disconnected from others. Yoga can provide a space where they can connect with others who have similar experiences, which can be incredibly healing and empowering.

In conclusion, trauma informed yoga is so relevant these days because it provides a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for those who have experienced trauma. By focusing on mindfulness, self-awareness, and community, trauma informed yoga can help people heal, move forward, and reclaim their lives.

You may be surprised by the positive impact that Trauma Informed Yoga can have on your life.