Things That You Won't Typically Get In A Trauma Sensitive Yoga Session

There are many similarities between trauma-sensitive yoga and conventional yoga classes that you may have attended. Both types of classes allow you to move your body in an effort to feel better while under the care and supervision of an instructor, for example. The major difference between trauma-sensitive yoga and conventional yoga is that while many people may take the latter type of class, the former is geared toward those who have been through trauma. If you've endured abuse, suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, or otherwise feel as though this type of yoga may benefit you, consider attending a session. This blog describes things you won't have to worry about in this healing environment.

Unwelcome Touch

In a conventional yoga class, it's common for the instructor to circulate throughout the room and provide hands-on help. For example, if the instructor wants you to keep your foot away from your knee while you perform a tree pose, he or she may gently hold your ankle and reposition your foot. In a trauma-sensitive yoga environment, you won't encounter this type of touch. Your instructor knows that being touched can put trauma survivors in a difficult place, and doesn't want to create this pain. If your instructor wishes to reposition your body, he or she will ask beforehand.

Excessive Vocal Encouragement

One part of a conventional yoga class is the vocal encouragement of the teacher. A teacher might say in an upbeat voice, "I know you can hold this pose longer," or something similar. When some people practice conventional yoga, these messages can propel them to improve their posture. While a trauma-sensitive yoga instructor will speak to you throughout the session, they won't do so with aerobics class-style commands. Rather, they'll converse quietly and respectfully to honor where you are emotionally.

Rapid Sequencing

Conventional yoga teachers typically have a plan about how many postures they want to get through before the class ends. Sometimes, this can lead to rapid sequencing — performing one pose for a moment, and then quickly moving into another. You don't need to worry about this quick-paced environment in a trauma-sensitive yoga session. Your teacher knows that everyone needs to move at a pace that is natural to them and doesn't have an agenda about how many postures to complete before the end of the session. If you have to spend a long time in one position, your instructor will support you.

To learn more about these yoga classes, contact a professional near you like Juanita Giles LLC.