Moved to Heal

Trauma Sensitive Yoga

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 and sequences of the physical practice (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, TSY participants can develop their ability to feel in their bodies, recognize their internal sensations, and use that knowledge as a resource for self-regulation.

I love podcasts, so of course that was my vehicle of choice for sharing trauma-sensitive movement! There are a few other reasons I think a podcast is a handy way to access MTH classes:

• one can listen to the practices in a casual way, which might be an easier entry point than an in-person class
• can listen discretely with headphones
• no visuals (which can be distracting or prescriptive even)
• connection through voice
• free resource anyone can access
• episodes can be downloaded for later use without internet connection