Life Stone Counseling Centers

TRAUMA INFORMED YOGA

Trauma informed yoga is different than other approaches to yoga in the way it is taught, approached, and practiced. Unlike traditional yoga classes, trauma informed classes emphasize the connection between your body and the movement that is informed by the participants choice. Within a class, students are guided through shapes and in the processes encouraged to listen to their own bodies making movements, changes, and alterations as necessary. This style of yoga values the importance of diversity, creating an environment of safety, and offers skills and practices that have been shown to create lasting and powerful healing in those who have experienced trauma of all levels.

PRINCIPLES OF TRAUMA

INFORMED YOGA CLASSES

Trauma-informed yoga recognizes that trauma can affect the mind, body, and spirit. In this space, students are encouraged to reconnect with themselves and rebuild trust in their bodies at a pace that feels safe.Our trauma-informed approach includes:

EMPOWERMENT & CHOICE: Students are gently guided to listen to their own bodies and choose movements that feel supportive to them.

A SAFE & GROUNDED ENVIRONMENT: The space is designed to feel calming, comfortable, and predictable.

ADAPTABILITY: Multiple options and variations are offered so participants can tune in, be present, and move according to their needs.

ATTENTION TO SENSORY TRIGGERS: We avoid scents, loud or overwhelming music, bright lights, and other sensory elements that could feel activating.

SENSITIVITY TO VULNERABILITY: We remain mindful that certain shapes or positions may feel unsafe or exposed, and we provide alternatives without pressure.

SUPPORTIVE LANGUAGE: Cueing focuses on gentle invitation rather than rigid instruction, allowing each person to remain in choice and awareness.

RESPECT FOR THE PERSONAL SPACE: Physical, hands-on adjustments are not used; the student is the expert of their own body.

NERVOUS SYSTEM AWARENESS: Classes emphasize grounding, breath, and regulation skills—without requiring participants to learn complex neuroscience.