WHY YOGA?
Over half of the US population reports having experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. Physical or sexual assault, abuse, exposure to violence, armed conflict, car accidents, medical procedures, and witnessed traumatic events are just a few of many experiences that can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and a variety of other symptoms.
Research demonstrates that the effects of trauma are carried in the cells and tissues of the body. A traumatic event causes an individual's "fight, flight, or freeze" response to kick in involuntarily; if the energy generated by this response is not effectively discharged physically, the nervous system can be impacted. This dysregulation of the nervous system ultimately leads to symptoms of trauma, which include physical, mental, and emotional health challenges.
Research demonstrates that the effects of trauma are carried in the cells and tissues of the body. A traumatic event causes an individual's "fight, flight, or freeze" response to kick in involuntarily; if the energy generated by this response is not effectively discharged physically, the nervous system can be impacted. This dysregulation of the nervous system ultimately leads to symptoms of trauma, which include physical, mental, and emotional health challenges.
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Trauma-informed yoga is specifically designed to promote the slow, controlled reintegration and release of this traumatic energy. By offering practitioners a safe and welcoming space, empowering them with choice and control over their experience, and inviting them to reconnect with their bodies, trauma-informed yoga can support individuals on their healing journey. For many trauma survivors, their body is no longer a safe place. They may be experiencing a range of symptoms associated with trauma's impact on the nervous system, such as depression, fatigue, anxiety, or panic disorders. A trauma-informed yoga practice can be a powerful complement to their health routine, as it offers an opportunity to directly release trauma that is held within the body.
Yoga is a practice and lifestyle aiming to unite the mind, body, and spirit. Yoga works on every level of being – physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual, to create a sense of personal connectedness and wellness. Through the conscious connection of breath and gentle movement, yoga returns balance to the nervous system, reduces the symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and helps practitioners develop a healthy, nurturing relationship with their bodies (Van der Kolk 2014). Our vision is to create a world in which survivors of trauma can access, and benefit from, the power of yoga to heal the mind, body, and spirit. Firefly Yoga International invites trauma survivors to experience lasting, holistic healing, empowering them on their journey from dark to light. Read more: Why Firefly? |
Adrianne Mathiowetz Photography
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