Yoga as a Means to Alleviate Trauma Impact
Trauma Can Manifest in Daily Incidents, and Yoga May Aid Recovery
Trauma, usually associated with life's most harrowing moments, can also result from seemingly minor, accumulative experiences. A yoga therapist elucidates the concept of trauma-informed yoga and its potential benefits for those affected by trauma.
Trauma, in its diverse forms, can confound victims, making the recognition and understanding of their feelings an arduous task. The physical response to trauma often involves tense muscles and a hyperactive brain that is constantly on guard, potentially leading to shutdown or outbursts.
"Trauma doesn't always entail a significant event. It can be a gradual, insidious process that sneaks up on you unawares. One day, you realize that you don't feel well, but you're unsure why. That's trauma," explains Paula Brown, C-IAYT, E-RYT 500, a yoga therapist.
Trauma-informed yoga is not intended to revisit the source of distress. Instead, its purpose is to aid individuals in becoming more conscious of their physical sensations and emotions. This heightened awareness paves the way for the release of built-up emotions, stress, and tension.
When neural pathways disconnect due to trauma, verbal processing becomes difficult. This disconnection must be addressed before meaningful dialogue can ensue.
Traditional yoga practices contrast with trauma-sensitive ones, as teachers in trauma-informed sessions are cognizant of their students' potential trauma. Offering options that minimize vulnerability, such as replacing the instruction to close eyes with lowering or gazing down, are common in such sessions.
In a group setting, yoga therapists like Brown avoid arranging participants in a circle, as the dynamic might feel uncomfortable or threatening. They also provide reassurance, various options, and avoid positions that might trigger feelings of vulnerability or anxiety. Touching participants is not part of these sessions, out of respect for personal space.
In one-on-one sessions, a more personalized approach is adopted. Building a safe environment, dialogue, and breathwork play crucial roles in addressing each individual's specific needs.
Studies have shown that the combination of yoga and trauma therapy significantly reduces PTSD symptoms, displaying benefits comparable to established psychological and pharmaceutical methods.
Trauma-informed yoga can also assist in focusing the mind on the present, slowing down the rapid thought processes typical of trauma victims. Furthermore, it fosters feelings of connection and balance, helping individuals relearn to trust and tolerate their bodies.
Seeking trauma-informed yoga practices requires finding certified instructors. Online search engines, professional directories, social media, and professional associations can aid in locating suitable classes or practitioners. A mental health professional may also be able to offer recommendations.
[Sources: 1- Psychology Today, 2- Eventbrite, 3- Cooley Law School, 4- Yoga Medicine Institute]
- A mental health professional might suggest trauma-informed yoga as part of a health-and-wellness plan, as studies have shown it can significantly reduce PTSD symptoms, often comparable to established psychological and pharmaceutical methods.
- Trauma-informed yoga classes focus on creating a safe environment that takes into account many aspects of a person's mental health and well-being, such as their comfort, emotional balance, and personal space.
- To ensure that you find a certified and effective yoga therapist who practices trauma-informed yoga, you may want to consider checking professional directories, attending events listed on platforms like Eventbrite, or seeking recommendations from mental health professionals.
