There is quite literally nothing more insidious, unbearable, nor intolerable than trauma. Indeed, survivors of traumatic experiences (be it combat, rape, accidents, natural disasters, abuse, or neglect) often share the intense drive to avoid any experience or conversation that may remind them of their traumatic event.
What is Trauma?
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the impact of trauma on mental and physical well-being. Trauma, defined as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience, can manifest in various forms throughout a lifetime, and have profound impacts on an individual’s lived experience.
Traditional approaches to healing often involve psychotherapy and medication, but an emerging practice, known as trauma-informed yoga, offers a unique and holistic avenue for recovery. In this article, we will explore the concept of trauma-informed yoga, its potential benefits, and the current research and resources available in this field to help you better understand how this emerging practice could help you in your healing journey.
Understanding Trauma
Before delving into the realm of trauma-informed yoga, it is crucial to understand the formal definition of trauma. Trauma, as defined by the American Psychological Association (APA), is an emotional response to a distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope, and leaves a lasting impact on their mental and emotional well-being.
Traumatic experiences can vary widely and may include incidents such as accidents, abuse, violence, neglect, or natural disasters. In cases where the traumatic event or experience is ongoing, and particularly if the afflicted person is under 18 years of age, this trauma can physically alter the neural connections in their brain.
Trauma leaves enduring imprints on both the body and mind. Physiologically, the body’s stress response system, known as the fight-or-flight response, can become hypersensitive, leading to chronic states of high stress that often evolve into various other health consequences or diseases.
Psychologically, trauma may result in conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, which often further perpetuate any physical ailments that may exist. In this way, any therapeutic approach to trauma must inherently recognize and embrace the interconnectedness of the body and mind.
Trauma-Informed Yoga: A Holistic Approach to Healing
This is why trauma-informed yoga has quickly gained popularity as one of the most effective therapeutic interventions. It is an evolving practice that incorporates principles of trauma sensitivity into traditional yoga techniques.
Unlike mainstream yoga classes, trauma-informed yoga instructors emphasize creating a safe and supportive environment, allowing individuals to explore movement and breath in a way that promotes healing rather than triggering distress. In situations where a person does become triggered in a trauma-informed class, the teacher is
trained to be able to identify that a person has been triggered without having to be verbally notified. They can then help that person acknowledge their trigger, understand the emotions they may be experiencing, and provide safe guidance for helping that person return to a non-triggered state without avoiding or dismissing any challenging emotions.
Creating a Safe Space
Central to a trauma-informed practice is the creation of a safe and inclusive space. In a trauma-informed class, instructors prioritize clear communication, offering choices and modifications for poses, and avoiding physical adjustments without consent.
Participants are also encouraged to have an open dialogue with their teacher about any physical or emotional challenges they may be experiencing. This approach helps participants remain open to the experience and to regain a sense of control and autonomy over their whole self; crucial elements in the healing process.
Mindfulness and Breathwork
Mindfulness, a key component of trauma-informed yoga, involves cultivating awareness of the present moment without judgment. Through mindfulness practices, individuals can develop a heightened sense of self-awareness, enabling them to recognize and manage their emotional responses to triggering experiences.
Combined with intentional breathwork, trauma-informed yoga provides powerful tools for self-regulation. Participants not only learn how to more quickly identify when they have been triggered, but also are equipped with accessible protocols for safely and effectively navigating the resulting challenging emotions and sensations.
Research Supporting Trauma-Informed Yoga
Scientific research on trauma-informed yoga is on-going, but in recent years several peer-reviewed articles have shown promising results in supporting individuals on their healing journey.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings (2018) found that trauma-informed yoga interventions were effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD and improving overall mental health. Another study in the Journal of Traumatic Stress (2019) highlighted the positive impact of trauma-sensitive yoga on regulating the nervous system and enhancing emotional well-being among trauma survivors.
The unique combination of mindfulness, breathwork, and gentle movement in trauma-informed yoga provides a non-intrusive way for individuals to reconnect with their bodies and emotions. It encourages a sense of empowerment and agency, allowing participants to make choices based on their comfort level, fostering a supportive environment for healing.
Recommendations for Learning More
If you are interested in exploring trauma-informed yoga further, there are various resources available. The Trauma Center at the Justice Resource Institute in Needham, Massachussettes, founded by renowned trauma expert Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, offers training programs for yoga instructors and mental health professionals seeking to integrate trauma-informed practices into their work.
Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk also has an exceptional book, “The Body Keeps the Score”, which provides a thorough overview of the lived experiences of trauma, as well as practical interventions to help heal from it.
Additionally, organizations such as the Yoga Alliance and the International Association of Yoga Therapists provide information and training opportunities for those looking to deepen their understanding of trauma-informed yoga.
Unfortunately, at this time, there is not a universally accepted standard for what it takes to become a trauma-informed yoga teacher. If you are interested in taking a trauma-informed yoga class, do your own research on the teacher to ensure they have a solid understanding of this unique practice.
In Summary
Trauma-informed yoga stands at the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern science, offering a holistic and accessible approach to healing that addresses the intricate connection between the body and mind.
As scientific research continues to validate its effectiveness, more individuals are turning to trauma-informed yoga as a complementary therapeutic tool on their journey toward healing.
By fostering a safe and supportive environment, emphasizing mindfulness and breathwork, and acknowledging the importance of individual agency, trauma-informed yoga opens a transformative pathway for individuals to reclaim their well-being. As awareness grows, so does the potential for trauma-informed yoga to become an integral part of holistic healing practices, providing hope and empowerment for those on the path to recovery.
References:
American Psychological Association. (2017). Trauma. https://www.apa.org/topics/trauma
Hopper, E., et al. (2018). Yoga for trauma and related mental health problems: A meta-review with clinical and service recommendations. Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings, 25(4), 372-383.
Kearney, D. J., et al. (2019). Trauma-sensitive yoga as an adjunct mental health treatment in group therapy for survivors of domestic violence: A feasibility study. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 32(5), 801-810.
Justice Resource Institute. (n.d.). The Trauma Center. https://www.traumacenter.org/
Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Penguin Books.
