Trauma-informed yoga

What advantage do we gain in studying trauma informed yoga?

As yoga teachers and practitioners, we're already sold on the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness in promoting physical and mental well-being. So what advantage do we gain in studying trauma informed yoga?

In today's fast-paced world full of conflict, unsolicited opinions and quick-twitch social media posts, stress and anxiety seem like constants in our lives. It's more important than ever to gather tools to help us control these fluctuations (vrtti) of the mind (citta) and "stay at our center." For when we can do so, the yogi may dwell in their own true splendor. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, 1.1-1.3. And for some, these every-day stressors are compounded by more serious, underlying events. I often worry that something I inadvertently say or do in class might cause suffering because I do not know each student's story. Though I've just scratched the surface, my study thus far of trauma-informed yoga is quickly becoming a highly useful tool in this regard. Here's what I've learned:

1. Decrease Hypervigilance and Overreactions:

One of the greatest benefits of trauma-informed yoga is its ability to decrease hypervigilance and overreactions to sensory input. Hypervigilance is described as an elevated state of constantly assessing potential threats around you. It is often seen in individuals who have experienced trauma.

Trauma, whether seemingly big or small, can leave permanent mark on our nervous system. We can feel constantly on edge, reacting strongly to triggers like visual stimuli, crowds, touch, sounds or even everyday movements. This heightened state of alertness is mentally and physically exhausting.

Trauma-informed yoga teaches us to create a safe and supportive space to gently work with these sensitivities. Through mindful movement, deep breathing, self-study and meditation, yogis can learn to re-regulate their nervous system. Over time, responses to external stimuli become less reactive and more balanced. This healing calmness can significantly improve overall well-being, allowing us to function in our lives with greater ease.

2. Improve Quality of Sleep and Energy Levels:

Many individuals who have experienced severe anxiety and trauma struggle to sleep well. Trauma-informed yoga can play a crucial role in improving the quality of sleep and boosting energy levels. By teaching you how to relax, release tension, and let go of stress, this practice can create the ideal conditions for a restful night's sleep.

With improved sleep patterns, individuals wake up feeling refreshed and energized. This boost in energy can enhance our daily productivity, enabling us to face challenges with a clearer mind and a more resilient body.

3. Decrease Intrusive Thoughts:

Intrusive thoughts (klista) can haunt those who have experienced trauma. These ongoing, disturbing thoughts throw us off-center and undermine physical and mental well-being. Trauma-informed yoga gives concrete, physical tools to decrease intrusive thoughts by teaching yogis to become present through breath, movement and body awareness.

Yoga encourages us to focus on the present moment, the sensations in the body and breath. By grounding yourself in the here and now, you can gradually release the grip of klista. Over time, we develop a greater ability to redirect our attention away from these distressing patterns, to become proactive instead of reactive and to foster mental clarity and peace (yogah).

4. Enhance Sense of Self-Worth and Personal Empowerment:

One of the most impactful aspects of trauma-informed yoga is its ability to nurture our sense of self-worth and personal empowerment. Trauma can leave deep emotional scars, affecting self-esteem and self-image. Yoga gently guides us toward self-acceptance, self-compassion and a sense of personal empowerment.

With each yoga session, we discover inner strength and resilience. We realize that our past does not define our worth. The practice encourages us to honor our body, mind, and spirit and to make choices that support our well-being and healing journey.

Trauma-informed yoga is a powerful and transformative practice. If you're considering a deeper dive into trauma informed yoga, join us live, online in November for MYA's Trauma Informed Yoga for teachers with Catherine Njeri. This course will not only enrich your yoga teaching but also empower you to create a safe and nurturing space for your students, fostering their emotional wellbeing and physical health. It's an investment in your personal and professional growth that can lead to a more fulfilling and impactful yoga teaching career.

This course is required in MYA's 300 hour YTT and also qualifies for 20 Y.A.C.E. credit hours. Sign up today with Midwest Yoga Academy.