a sense of vulnerability or overstimulation. Trained teachers adhere to non-touch assistance methods and oſten opt for well- lit studios to avoid a possible triggering atmosphere. A trauma-informed yoga teacher knows the inner workings
of the nervous system,” explains Mandy Eubanks, a trauma- trained yoga educator and certified yoga instructor in Tulsa. “We have respect for the variety of responses that our clients have to yoga, meditation and breathwork practices. For example, we understand deep breathing will be calming to one person and agitating to another. We normalize clients’ responses and work with them to find an effective technique for that individual.” Teachers with specialized training and access to props can also support people on a yoga journey that are limited physically. Eubanks emphasizes, “Yoga truly is for everyone and every body.”
Te Power of Choice and Individuality Lisa Danylchuk, the Oakland-based author of Yoga for Trauma Recovery: Teory, Philosophy, and Practice, underscores that in a trauma-informed environment, everything a teacher instructs is an offering or invitation. “Tis is important because people who have endured trauma have oſten not had a say over what happens to their bodies. A good trauma-informed class cultivates somatic and psychological resources, and focuses, above all, on cultivating a sense of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual safety.” Te founder of Te Center for Yoga and Trauma Recovery believes it’s important to be responsive to individual needs. “Trauma affects so many different individuals and groups of people and in such a variety of ways that it is impossible to give one prescription. Some people might benefit from a weekly, 60- to 90-minute vinyasa- style class. Others might benefit from a short, five-minute daily restorative practice.” Shaw also stresses a tailored approach. “How one wishes to
practice is up to the individual, but I suggest a combination of both one-on-one instruction and class format. If someone is in the throes of trauma, they will need a private session to start.” Eubanks adds the importance of consistency. “In my
experience, it is about finding which yoga practices work best for the client and then encouraging them to find time to practice every day. Yoga for PTSD is not a one-and-done deal. It takes time, effort and belief in oneself.”
Marlaina Donato is a body-mind-spirit author and recording artist. Connect at
AutumnEmbersMusic.com.
AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF A YOGI
The book that has changed the lives of millions Paperback, only $8.50
Also available in eBook and audio editions
www.AYanniversary.org September 2021 25
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ANNIVERSARY!
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