Our program is the first of its kind to be directly tied with a Children’s Justice Center in Utah.
The term trauma-sensitive yoga was coined by David Emerson, E-RYT, to describe the use of yoga as an adjunctive treatment within a clinical context. The practice aims to help clients regain comfort in their bodies, counteract rumination, and improve self-regulation.
Ongoing studies confirm that yoga and meditation are proven complementary tools to aid trauma survivors in healing, and support a more lasting recovery. A study conducted by the Trauma Center at Justice Resource Institute found that a regular trauma-sensitive yoga practice reduced the participants’ symptoms of PTSD by 30%
According to influential researcher and psychiatrist Bessel Van Der Kolk, MD, victims can have difficulty finding meaning in life beyond their trauma experience, saying that “For real change to take place, the body needs to learn that the danger has passed and to live in the reality of the present”
The specially designed classes offer an innovative approach to healing. Each class invites participants to reconnect with their bodies and minds through guided movement, meditation, and artwork. Unlike traditional therapy, yoga classes do not require any discussion of past experiences. MRI studies have shown that when a survivor recounts their trauma, they relive it, and their body enters into the same acute stress response they experienced when the trauma occurred. Yoga allows the survivor to stay in the present, and heal.
The ultimate aim of our trauma-informed youth yoga program is to send these children and teens out into the world with simple, sustainable tools to help them navigate complicated situations and emotions so they can stay safe and continue their path toward healing. Classes are currently held once per week and are free by referral from the CJC. For more information please contact our office.
Classes are currently held once per week in Cedar City and are free by referral from the CJC. For more information please contact our office.