Trauma-Informed Yoga: An Explanation

 “There are wounds that never show on the body that are deeper and more hurtful than anything that bleeds.”
― Laurell K. Hamilton,  Mistral's Kiss

Trauma is a heavy word. It conjures up images of darkness, of pain, of things we'd rather not think about. For many of us, the word "trauma" is too big, too intimidating to even consider approaching. But what if there was a way to work through trauma in a gentle, safe manner? That's where trauma-informed yoga comes in.

Introduction

Yes, yoga. The same yoga that you might do for a workout or to relax. But trauma-informed yoga is different. It's a specific type of yoga that is designed to help people who have experienced trauma heal both physically and emotionally. In this article, we'll explore what trauma-informed yoga is and why it's so important.

What Is Trauma-Informed Yoga?

Trauma-informed yoga is a specific type of yoga that focuses on helping people who have experienced trauma heal both physically and emotionally. Unlike traditional yoga, which can be quite fast-paced and energetic, trauma-informed yoga is slow and gentle. The emphasis is on building trust and feeling safe, rather than on getting a great workout or mastering complex poses.

Why Is It Important?

For anyone who has experienced trauma, the physical and emotional consequences can be devastating. Unfortunately, traditional yogic practices can often re-traumatize people because they are based on the assumption that everyone is physically and emotionally healthy. This simply isn't the case for many people who have been through traumatic experiences.

Trauma-informed yoga provides an alternative approach that is based on the understanding that everyone has different needs. By creating a safe space where people can go at their own pace and focus on their own well-being, trauma-informed yoga can help people begin to heal the physical and emotional damage caused by trauma.

Conclusion

If you're struggling to come to terms with a traumatic experience, know that you're not alone. And know that there are resources available to help you heal—resources like trauma-informed yoga. This type of yoga provides a safe space for healing both physically and emotionally. If you're ready to begin your journey toward healing, consider finding a trauma-informed yoga class near you.

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