Firefly Training - Level 1

Trauma-Informed Yoga


99% of firefly trainees report they would recommend the training to others


The Level-1 Firefly Training introduces the foundations of teaching trauma-informed yoga to yoga teachers, therapists, medical professionals, educators, and other social service providers who incorporate yoga or body-based practices into their work with clients and patients. The training consists of a robust, evidence-supported, 30-hour curriculum delivered through six modules. We view trauma through a public health lens while applying an interdisciplinary approach drawing from various fields, including: neuroscience, trauma theory, traumatology, and positive psychology. The Firefly Training has equipped more than 500 professionals (in 26 states and 5 countries) on the principles and practice of trauma-informed yoga. In an effort to accommodate diverse learning styles, the training combines lecture, small and large group discussions, group activities, partner practice teaching, independent study, and experiential learning. 


I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to train with Firefly Yoga International. This is without a doubt the most educational and thorough training I have completed to date. Thank you!
— Firefly Trainee, virtual participant

Training Objectives

The 30-hour trauma-informed yoga teacher training* is delivered through six modules. In that time the Level 1 Firefly Training: 

  • Defines trauma and what it means to be trauma-informed

  • Provides foundational knowledge of a trauma-informed approach

  • Educates on the neuroscience of trauma and its impacts on brains, bodies, and behaviors

  • Discusses how trauma-informed yoga can serve as a complementary intervention for those who have experienced trauma

  • Addresses indications of vicarious/secondary trauma, and innovative approaches to cultivating resilience, and self- and collective-care

  • Explores the intersectionality of trauma, privilege, and social justice to understand how historical and current systems of oppression may impact survivors

  • Equips participants with practical application of concrete skills and techniques to effectively create physically and psychologically safer yoga spaces

  • Provides two full instructor-led trauma-informed yoga classes and opportunities for practice teaching by participants

  • Connects participants with a community of empowered and embodied trauma-informed yoga teachers through the Firefly Network

*All participants receive a training manual.

Photo by Adrianne Mathiowetz

Upon completion, participants have the technical knowledge, practical application skills, and contextual understanding necessary to offer trauma-informed yoga classes to a variety of populations of trauma-impacted individuals in a safe and effective manner, and to truly show up as trauma responsive leaders. Additionally, those who complete the training gain access to their cohort and past cohorts through the Firefly Network. 

The Firefly Training is a professional development training and is not intended as an intervention for personal healing/processing personal trauma. Talking about trauma, and the principles and practice of trauma-informed yoga may be activating to the nervous system. The training is not intended for those currently in crisis. 

See Below for Upcoming Trainings


September 27-29, 2024 - Yess Yoga, Minneapolis, MN
Level 1 - In-Person - $500

Training Dates
9:00am-5:30pm, September 27-29


Registration and location details can be found at
Yess Yoga.


95% of participants report that the Firefly Training exceeded their expectations


Testimonials

I recommend this to all yoga teachers, whether they plan on teaching trauma-informed classes or not. My favorite part of the training was the connection between participants and the safe space that was created for people to be vulnerable and authentic.
— Firefly Trainee, Boston, MA
I came into this training wanting to better support young yoga students with more awareness around trauma, and I am leaving with far more. Not only do I now have tools and knowledge to support students, I am also leaving with tangible resources to create social change.
— Firefly Trainee, virtual participant
This was one of the best trainings I’ve ever been to. Incredibly informative, inspiring, and well worth the price.
— Firefly Trainee, Minneapolis, MN
The compassion and attentiveness from the facilitator was remarkable. I truly felt seen and heard. Such a wonderful example of modeling the idea of holding space.
— Firefly Trainee, Napa, CA