FAQ: Psychotherapeutic Yoga / Trauma-Informed Yoga
/
“In a study of yoga and PTSD, we found that yoga was more effective than any medicine that people have studied up to now. That doesn't mean that yoga cures it, but yoga makes a substantial difference in the right direction.” –Bessel Van Der Kolk
What is Psychotherapeutic Yoga?
Psychotherapeutic/Trauma-Informed Yoga is an evidence-based practice that uses the foundations of yoga philosophy to specifically address mental health concerns. Our bodies respond physically to stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health issues. This same connection can allow us to use our bodies to ease the symptoms.
Yoga is an ancient practice that taps into primal mind/body connections. This is not the typical yoga that you may see in studios. Therapeutic yoga is an individualized practice that helps cultivate mindfulness awareness, address symptoms associated with traumatic exposure, and bring back the mind-body balance.
What does a typical therapeutic yoga session look like?
In the first session, you and your practitioner will do a thorough review of your body to assess any injuries, areas of discomfort, and/or physical limitations that may be affecting you. It will also include a general overview of typical stress response patterns, coping strategies, and areas of dis-ease.
You and your practitioner will then co-create, explore, and flow through various postures that may help bring awareness to various physical sensations. The experience is very invitational and exploratory to do what feels good for YOUR body. You will develop the power of choice - something that has often been taken away when we have traumatic experiences. Through a combination of physical movement, breathing exercises, and relaxation, the focus will be on cultivating an awareness of an internal experience, not on achieving any type of proper form. Everything about the practice is optional, gentle, and designed to help individuals befriend their bodies.
What are the benefits of therapeutic yoga?
Chronic stress (fight or flight mode), which leads to increased levels of cortisol (the body’s primary stress hormone) and underlie many physical and mental health issues. Regular yoga practices have been shown to naturally decrease cortisol levels and give the body a chance to experience rest. Some of the benefits include reduced symptoms related to anxiety, depression, & stress, increased self-confidence, more energy, personal/spiritual growth, greater acceptance, and empowerment.
Cost
$100 / 60-min session