Trauma can leave deep imprints on both the mind and the body, often hiding in the most unexpected places. While traditional therapy focuses on the psychological aspects of trauma, yoga provides an alternative avenue for healing that speaks directly to the body and the nervous system. This blog post will explore how trauma-informed yoga can help dissolve tension stored in the body and pave the way for holistic healing.
Understanding trauma and the nervous system
The nervous system's role
When we experience stress or trauma, our nervous system—particularly the primal part of our brain responsible for survival—goes into overdrive. This response, often known as 'fight-or-flight,' prepares the body to either confront or escape the threat. However, when the stress becomes overwhelming or chronic, the body may remain in this heightened state, storing unresolved trauma in the muscles and tissues, presenting, for example, as tension.
Trauma is held in the body, not just the mind
While psychological therapies target the mind, it's crucial to understand that the body responds to stress independently. For many, the experience of trauma isn't just a mental challenge but a physical one. The lingering effects of trauma can manifest as tension, pain, or discomfort, residing silently within the body's nervous system.
How yoga can heal trauma
Speaking to the body through yoga
Unlike traditional forms of exercise, yoga offers a unique way to connect with the body. By incorporating breath control, mindfulness, and gentle movements, yoga helps relax the nervous system, making it easier to release stored trauma. Here's how:
Breath control (Pranayama):Â Deep, controlled breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces the body's stress response.
Mindfulness:Â By focusing on the present moment, mindfulness practices help break the cycle of repetitive, stress-inducing thoughts, allowing the body to begin the process of healing.
Gentle movements:Â Yoga poses, or asanas, stretch and strengthen the muscles, helping to release tension and improve overall body awareness.
Trauma-informed yoga practices
Trauma-informed yoga specifically tailors practices to be sensitive to the needs of trauma survivors. These sessions often include:
Modified postures:Â Adjustments to yoga poses to create a sense of safety and comfort.
Choice and empowerment:Â Encouraging participants to listen to their bodies and make choices about how they move.
Mind-body connection:Â Integrating body awareness exercises to help clients reconnect with their physical selves.
Benefits of trauma-informed yoga
Reduces symptoms of PTSD:Â Studies have shown that trauma-informed yoga can significantly reduce symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), including hyperarousal and avoidance behaviours.
Enhances emotional regulation:Â By calming the nervous system, yoga helps individuals manage their emotional responses more effectively.
Improves physical health:Â Regular practice can alleviate physical symptoms like chronic pain and muscle tension, which are often associated with trauma.
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Healing from trauma is a complex process that involves both mind and body. While traditional therapies are essential, integrating trauma-informed yoga can offer additional pathways to recovery by directly addressing the tension stored in the nervous system.