Understanding Trauma-Informed Yoga
A lot has changed in the world of yoga in the 23 years I’ve been practicing! As as student of Baptiste “Power” Yoga and Ashtanga, I realize now looking back that I wasn’t always in the safest spaces: assists without consent, a “no pain-no gain” mentality, directives vs options, little to no modification options, the list goes on. And while I, personally, did not feel like I was in an unsafe space at the time, looking back I now understand that much of what I experienced may have been troublesome for others with different life experiences:
Enter Trauma-Informed Yoga. Trauma-informed yoga is a compassionate approach that prioritizes safety, empowerment, and personal choice. For individuals who have experienced trauma, traditional yoga classes in a group setting can sometimes feel overwhelming. But here’s the cool thing: Trauma-informed yoga isn’t just for those that are sensitive or experiencing PTSD–it is for EVERYONE. By incorporating trauma-informed principles, instructors create an inclusive environment that honors each participant’s unique journey. Who doesn’t want that?
Gratefully, I learned from one of the best in the field in this area, Jenn Wooten, during my advanced training with Practice Yoga in 2019. I highly recommend her trainings, and suggest seeking her mentorship if you want to dive deeper into this subject.
Here are 7 key phrases that I use to foster this safe space:
1. “You are the expert on YOUR body”
I use this phrase at the beginning of nearly all my classes, especially the ones with new students. This phrase empowers the student and clarifies they have the authority to make decisions that work best for them in the class. Automatically, as a teacher, there is a power differential in the room. Even as an experienced yoga teacher, when I enter into someone else’s class, they are the teacher and I am the student–it is my job to listen and their job to guide me. When I know a teacher is open to my own modifications and advancements, I feel a lot more comfortable in class! Wouldn’t you?
2. “If it feels good in your body…”
Instead of DIRECTING participants to “do this,” a trauma-informed teacher INVITES individuals to tune into their own bodies. This phrase encourages self-awareness and personal choice, empowering practitioners to listen to their own needs and boundaries.
3. “Try this OR that…”
We live in a hierarchical world, and many of us are always trying to “do MORE.” Giving multiple options, without specifying advancement or modification is really important in a trauma-informed class. By using “try this OR that” instead of prescribing a specific movement acknowledges that there are multiple ways to approach a posture. It validates personal preferences and encourages exploration, allowing each individual to find what works best for their body.
4. “Feel free to modify or skip this pose…”
This phrase reassures participants that it’s okay to adapt or bypass certain postures if they don’t feel safe or comfortable. It fosters a non-judgmental environment where everyone is free to prioritize their well-being over adhering to a prescribed sequence.
5. “Notice how your body responds…”
Encouraging participants to pay attention to their body’s sensations invites mindfulness and self-reflection. This approach helps individuals reconnect with their physical selves, enhancing their ability to recognize and honor their limits.
6. “Close OR heavily lid your eyes…”
Closing the eyes can be really triggering for individuals working through trauma. Rather than simply saying “close your eyes,” this phrasing gives students the option to adjust as they feel comfortable. Some may find it grounding to softly gaze at a point in front of them, while others might prefer to close their eyes completely. This flexibility promotes a sense of control.
7. “Is it OK if . . .”
“I give you a block/blanket/bolster,” “step onto your mat,” “assist you by touching my hand to your shoulder in this pose?” ALWAYS ask for consent when moving into someone’s space. EVERY time. No really. Every time. Even if you know the person well. Even if you just asked a moment before. Even it’s your MOM (my mom practices regularly at my studio, and I need to ask her, too). This is SO important, and I cannot stress it enough. It’s not only about the respect that it shows, but it also is because every single interaction is different. More in this in a future blog about Hands-On Assists (HOAs). Stay tuned!
Conclusion
Trauma-informed yoga is really just SMARTER teaching. It provides a nurturing framework for everyone, especially those healing from trauma, offering a safe space to explore movement.
Disclaimer
Please keep in mind, this is not about tiptoeing around your teaching-it’s about doing your best to welcome and accommodate. Don’t allow these suggestions to create fear of offending, causing you to freeze. Be yourself! We are not flawless, and there are some instances where we either make mistakes, or there is a student who cannot be pleased. These aren’t reasons to avoid trying! Again, just do your best and trust.