Trauma Informed Yoga

What is trauma informed yoga? Trauma informed yoga assumes that everyone has experienced some level of trauma or significant stress in their lives. We all have experienced things that impact the way that we think, feel, and behave. Trauma informed yoga understands this concept and integrates this into all yoga classes.

  • Yoga where all are accepted/welcome
  • Yoga instructors use "choice" language and offer modification and choice to every yoga pose
  • No hands-on adjustments without prior permission
  • Attire: Policy about dress code (no bras/crop tops/scandalous clothing)
  • No mirrors
  • The awareness that students may become emotionally activated during yoga poses
  • Permission to leave whenever you need to - easily accessible exit door
  • Plenty of space between yoga mats - no overcrowding of yoga studio
  • Access to water
  • Access to support objects including towels and blocks
  • Predictability: "you will be holding this pose for 5 breaths, but feel free to back out if you want or need to"
  • Other ongoing modifications will be made to meet the individual needs of each student

Who can participate in trauma informed yoga: Trauma informed yoga is for people of all ages, even if you have not experienced trauma. This type of yoga works for all types of mental health and can provide additional support for people who struggle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, addictions, and day to day life stressors. Kids are also welcome to participate in yoga! There are designated classes for children and teens to participate in at Warrior Wellness.

Is Yoga Therapy? No, yoga is not therapy; However, yoga is a wonderful addition to therapy and can enhance progress in therapy. There is also recent research that has shown that yoga can be a stand-alone intervention for mental health obstacles. While yoga is not therapy, yoga supports us in mindfulness, which is an essential component to any mental health recovery. Yoga is an evidence based intervention with trauma and other mental health related obstacles.

Mental Health Benefits of Yoga

  • Calms the nervous system which is constantly being activated in stress/trauma responses
  • Facilitates connections between mind and body
  • Increases the level of Serotonin in the brain and decreases stress
  • Increases one's ability to make decisions, form bonds and connections with people, strengthens self-compassion and self-acceptance
  • Helps regulate mood and emotions
  • Focuses on the present moment - we all live in a fast paced society which inhibits us from being
  • Overall increased quality of life and well-being
  • Increased muscular strength and flexibility
  • Improved cardiovascular and respiratory function
  • Improved sleep patterns

How do I sign up: Classes must be pre-registered for in order to avoid over-crowding of the yoga studio. Please see class schedule to register and get complete list of classes being offered

Price: Yoga classes are $20/class for ages 13+ | $12/class ages 5-12. Various packages are also available to purchase

Cancellation Policy: You may cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time of any class. If you fail to cancel your reservation or do not show up for your class, you will still be charged the class fee.

Please do not come to the studio if you or someone you have been in contact with is experiencing any symptoms or illness.

Things to know for your first yoga class:

  • Bring a yoga mat - if you do not have one, you can rent one for $3
  • Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing - we ask that yogis wear clothing that is comfortable and allows for movement.
  • Water: Bring a bottle of water. We do have some water available for purchase in the studio, but recommend that everyone bring their own
  • Towel: Bring a small towel to use for sweat or any adjustments that may be needed
  • Eat: Don't eat anything too heavy before yoga. We do recommend eating a small and healthy snack beforehand such as a piece of fruit or yogurt
  • Arrival Time: Please show up 10-15 minutes before the start of your yoga class (if possible)
  • Questions: Ask questions and please feel free to share with the yoga instructor any injuries that you feel we should know about
  • Be Patient and Compassionate with yourself: Yoga can be both physically and emotionally challenging at times - be kind to yourself, meet your body where it is at, and please feel free to take a break or child's pose whenever you need to. Focus on yourself and do not compare yourself with others.
  • Have fun: Even if you cannot do some or all of the poses, enjoy the journey and enjoy the process. Yoga is about the journey and not about a particular destination
  • No, you don't need to be flexible or be able to stand on your head: This is a common misperception when it comes to yoga. All you have to do is show up, breathe, be kind to yourself, and enjoy the journey.