Why Trauma Yoga?

Why participate in trauma yoga individually or in a group setting? Trauma disconnects us from the whole of ourselves. We split off due to the overwhelm that is experienced, sometimes leaving or disconnecting from our bodies during and after the event(s). The psyche moves towards pleasure and away from pain, so it makes sense that one would disconnect from the nervous system hyper-arousal, overwhelming feelings, and uncomfortable body sensations that are left as an imprint after trauma through disconnection or dissociation. Trauma yoga gently increases our capacity to increase that connection in a safe and titrated way. When we participate with others and our sense of connection increases, that too invites presence and supports nervous system regulation. Trauma and traumatic responses are also stored in the body. Sometimes the response that was needed or programmed in our body during the trauma was thwarted or left incomplete, and, this energy too, can be held in the body. Over time, this can create protective patterns, dis-ease, and disruptions within the flow of energy. These outcomes can block ourselves from our own strength, resiliency, intuition, and self knowing. Mindful movement paired with the breath is an excellent way to shift stagnant energy, release what no longer serves us, and discharge tensions and blockages that can result from trauma. At its most basic level, trauma yoga invites us back into our body, and supports us in experiencing that presence along with safety, choice, in-tact boundaries, and community.