“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” – Viktor E. Frankl
Why yoga? Yoga offers us wonderful practices for learning to breathe and building emotional and physical tolerance for discomfort. This is especially important during COVID-19 as we are all pushed beyond our conceptualization of what is normal. There is symbolism between holding a difficult pose and noticing what arises and understanding how you respond to those challenging life moments. Having awareness can help you shift how you sense pain to discern what is uncomfortable versus what is unsafe or dangerous. Over time, with practice, mindful breathwork,meditation & movement can help to increase resilience, and decrease the impact and intensity of stress, anxiety and depression. You can heal.
What does trauma-informed mean? Every body is a yoga body, there are no prerequisites to these practices. You do not need any previous experience or name brand spandex. You come as you are, you are enough. I aim to offer a space that will feel safe. No music or hands on assists will be offered. Every movement is named as an option, with the understanding that you know your body best and will move within your range to meet your needs.
Yoga as Therapy: During a consultation I will ask you questions about symptoms, challenges, lifestyle and areas where you are stuck. I will then design an individualized practice tailored to where you are on your healing journey. If you are currently connected to an awesome therapist we can still work together. I am happy to collaborate with your therapist, doctor, or treatment team to help you get the most benefit out of our work. A minimum of 2 sessions, one to assess and one to practice is needed.
Anxiety example: There are breathing exercises you can do that can tell you body and brain “you are safe”. Learning to tolerate slowing down might be a part of our interventions to help your body rest and restore.
Depression example: We will work on invigorating breathing exercises and movements that will increase and balance your system. This can help you meet your goals and rejoin life.
Pain or intense emotion/sensation example: We can work on noticing how your thoughts and physical sensations (pain, panic attack, muscles tightening) are related. Breathing exercises and gentle movements can help you tolerate what is uncomfortable and differentiate between sensation and danger.