In the ancient text, The Yoga Sutra, yoga is defined by 3 words:

Chitta = Mind

Vritti = Fluctuations

Nirodaha = settling /quieting

“Yoga is the settling of the fluctuations of the mind.”

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One of the greatest misconceptions about yoga is that you have to be flexible – this simply isn’t true! If you are breathing intentionally you are doing yoga...anyone can do it. 

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WHAT IS TRAUMA INFORMED YOGA? 

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Trauma informed yoga, also known as trauma-sensitive yoga is an approach to yoga that recognizes the ways trauma can affect the body, nervous system, and sense of safety. Rather than focusing primarily on physical performance or achieving specific poses, trauma-informed yoga emphasizes creating an environment where participants feel safe, empowered, and in control of their own experience.

Trauma (both big and small), addiction, and grief can leave the nervous system in states of chronic hyperarousal (anxiety, vigilance) or hypoarousal (shutdown, numbness). Trauma-informed yoga supports nervous system regulation through gentle movement, breath awareness, and mindful attention to internal sensations. The goal is not to push the body, but to reconnect with the body in a gradual and compassionate way.

A key principle of trauma-informed yoga is choice. Participants are encouraged to move at their own pace and to modify or skip any posture. Language is typically invitational rather than directive—for example, “You might explore lifting your arms” instead of “Lift your arms now.” This approach helps restore a sense of agency that trauma may have disrupted.

Trauma-informed yoga also emphasizes predictability and transparency. Teachers often explain what will happen during the class, and I personally do not use hands-on corrections. The focus is on helping you notice sensations, breathing patterns, and internal responses with curiosity rather than judgment.

Trauma-informed yoga is not therapy itself, although it can complement psychotherapy. My role in class is not to process traumatic memories or encourage emotional disclosure. Instead, the practice offers tools that support body awareness, emotional regulation, and grounding.

This class is not about pushing through discomfort, forcing relaxation, or achieving a specific emotional outcome. You may experience calm, but you may also notice tension, restlessness, or other sensations. All is valid.

At its core, trauma-informed yoga creates a supportive environment where individuals can explore movement and breath in a way that prioritizes safety, choice, and self-awareness. Over time, this approach can help rebuild trust in the body and strengthen the ability to respond to internal experiences with greater steadiness and compassion.

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In 2017 I completed a 200 hour teacher training program with Johns Creek Yoga and in 2025 I completed an additional 300 hours. I am a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT500).  Additionally, I hold multiple certificates in Trauma-Informed Yoga.

 

Do you keep hearing that yoga would be good for you, but you are scared, worried or don't know where to start?  Get started in a safe space.