Yoga & trauma-sensitive yoga

Yoga is concerned with the movement of the body and assuming different postures in order to develop body strength and improve balance, among other things. The knock-on effects of yoga can also aid pain, insomnia, stress and anxiety, and help people ground themselves in the present moment.

Where trauma-based yoga differs from standard yoga is the emphasis it places on body awareness and the reunification of body and mind. It also recognises (i) the importance of a safe environment, with plenty of physical space between each person (ii) the need for a slow, gentle and light approach, to avoid the risk of triggering the trauma, and (iii) the liberating quality of allowing individuals the freedom to choose how they perform each posture.