What is trauma-informed yoga?

Trauma-informed yoga is a broad term that describes movements, breathing practices and relaxation that help to relieve physical and emotional symptoms caused by trauma. It is based on the growing understanding that trauma takes a heavy toll on the body and the nervous system. This practice focuses on helping individuals move out of the "fight or flight" response (sympathetic nervous system) into the "rest and digest" mode (parasympathetic nervous system).

The iRest guided meditation protocol, developed by psychologist Richard Miller, Ph.D., is one of the components of “Yoga for Trauma Relief.” Other components include self-soothing movements, such as gentle rocking, attachment based approaches, and bilateral stimulation (cross-brain integration), a method of trauma release which is also a core aspect of EMDR.

 The practices in “Trauma Informed Yoga” are designed to reduce posttraumatic symptoms, and research has shown they work well. You can experience this at home using one of Richard Miller's videos.