The trauma-sensitive yoga I offer is a movement practice designed as a resource for healing and follows the foundational principles of Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY), an evidence-based therapeutic intervention for complex trauma and resilience-building practice for various forms of trauma and adverse experiences.
TCTSY practices are designed to empower practitioners in their movement and in their bodies. Practices are facilitated using invitational language, offering choices for each movement, and inviting awareness of internal experience.
While there are many variations on "regular" yoga, many yoga classes you would find in a studio or gym in the US place an emphasis on achieving skill in the postures (among other things). Many students consider yoga part of their exercise program.
Trauma-sensitive practices shift the focus to the internal experience and remove any emphasis on perfecting physical skills. Forms and movements are facilitated using invitational language, instead of directive commands common to exercise classes.
Over time, TCTSYparticipants can develop or enhance their ability to feel in their bodies, recognize their internal sensations, and use that awareness as a resource for self-regulation.
Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is designed for survivors of complex trauma and facilitators have shared it with folks at various stages of recovery from several kinds of traumatic experiences. Depending on where someone is in their healing journey, TCTSY could be a resource they use as a stand-alone intervention or in conjunction with other therapeutic tools, including talk therapy.
Additionally, TCTSY can be beneficial for anyone who likes the practice. It can help folks from all backgrounds and life experiences build awareness of their physical and internal experiences through movement.
I'm available to offer 1:1 trauma-sensitive yoga via video meeting and group sessions in-person in partnership with local organizations. Our work together begins with at least one introductory meeting (no session charge). Feel free to email me to learn more.