Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TSY), developed at the Center for Trauma and Embodiment in Brookline, Massachusetts, is “an empirically validated, clinical intervention for complex trauma or chronic, treatment-resistant post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).” Our classes, rooted in trauma-sensitive yoga, help students create the opportunity to explore breath and physical sensations for personal healing and empowerment.

Trauma-Sensitive Yoga

• Maximizes experiences of empowerment and cultivates a more positive relationship with one's body

• Does not use physical hands-on adjustments

• Emphasis is not on the physical expression of postures

• Focus is on the internal experience of the participant

• Offers informed choice-making and personal agency that is often compromised as a result of trauma

• Bridges the connection of mind and body and cultivate a sense of agency.

 Research Findings

Women with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are five times more likely to develop SUD than women without past trauma (Moyers, W.C. & Schmidt, K., 2020, 0:05:02)

• Traumatic experiences are reported to increase the risk of substance abuse in women (van der Kolk et al., 2014, p.e559)

• A trauma-informed approach to treatment is recommended (Covington, 2008, pp 377-378)

• Addressing trauma is reported to be an important component of behavioral health services (SAMHSA, 2014, p.2)

• Yoga is shown to reduce PTSD symptomology (van der Kolk et al., 2014, p.e559)

• Yoga, mindfulness, and meditation as part of complementary health practices are shown to increase beneficial outcomes for women in recovery (Brooks, et al., 2020, p.e115)

(Contents of this section is from the Center for Trauma and Embodiment https://www.traumasensitiveyoga.com)