Creating Trauma-Informed Yoga Spaces: Empowering Both Instructors and Students
Yoga is a powerful tool for healing, but for trauma survivors, the practice can be both empowering and challenging. Creating a trauma-informed yoga space is essential to ensure that every student feels safe, supported, and empowered. Whether you are an instructor or a student, being mindful of trauma’s impact and learning to communicate openly can transform the yoga experience into one that fosters true healing.
From the Instructor’s Perspective:
- Create a Safe and Non-Judgmental Environment: A trauma-informed instructor creates a welcoming space where students feel they can show up as they are, free from judgment. Offering options for different levels of movement and encouraging modifications ensures comfort and safety for everyone.
- Mind Your Language: The words you use are powerful. Avoid triggering or prescriptive language, and instead, offer invitations that allow students to choose what feels best for their bodies. Phrases like “Notice what feels good for you” or “If you need to rest at any time, please listen to your body” can encourage self-awareness and control.
- Encourage Mindful Breathing: Breath is an essential tool for grounding. Encourage deep, slow breathing to help students calm their nervous systems and stay connected to the present moment. Gentle reminders to breathe can provide a sense of agency and support emotional regulation.
- Offer Trauma-Informed Adjustments: Avoid hands-on adjustments unless explicitly asked for or necessary. Instead, provide verbal cues that help guide students into poses, and always ask permission before offering any physical adjustments. Empowering students to take charge of their bodies fosters trust and autonomy.
From the Student’s Perspective: Feeling Empowered to Speak Up
As a student, it’s important to feel comfortable advocating for yourself in a yoga class. Trauma-informed spaces are designed to respect your boundaries, but it’s still essential for you to communicate your needs.
- Trust Your Body’s Wisdom: If something doesn’t feel right in your body, give yourself permission to stop or modify a pose. Your body knows what it needs, and it’s okay to listen to it. Speaking up if something feels uncomfortable will help you create a safer, more supportive practice for yourself.
- Communicate Your Needs: Don’t be afraid to express what you need in class. Whether it’s asking for more time in a pose, modifying an instruction, or needing quiet space to process, your voice matters. A trauma-informed instructor will welcome your input and work with you to create a practice that supports your well-being.
- Remember, It’s Okay to Rest: If you need to take a break, rest in a child’s pose, or simply sit and breathe, don’t feel pressured to push through. Self-care in yoga is about honoring your body’s limits and understanding that your practice is uniquely yours.
Creating a Safe and Empowering Space Together
Trauma-informed yoga isn’t just about the instructor—it’s a collaborative effort between teacher and student. When both work together to foster trust, respect, and open communication, the practice becomes a healing space for all involved. Whether you’re teaching or practicing, always remember that your voice, your body, and your experience matter in every yoga class.
At Stella Luna Counseling and Wellness, we strive to create this kind of supportive, trauma-informed space for all students. Join us to experience a yoga practice that honors your unique journey and fosters healing in a compassionate, empowering environment.
