Holding Space: Teaching Trauma-Informed Yoga for Every Body (Part 1 of a 2-Part Series)
Are you a yoga teacher looking to create a truly safe and empowering space for all your students? Do you want to deepen your understanding of how trauma can impact the body and nervous system, and learn practical tools to adapt your teaching accordingly?
This workshop will guide you in cultivating a trauma-informed approach to your group yoga classes. Led by Sara Merrick-Albano, C-IAYT, a yoga therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through trauma recovery, this training moves beyond traditional techniques to explore the nuances of teaching students who may have experienced trauma, fostering an environment of trust, choice, and agency.
In this experiential workshop, you will:
● Gain a foundational understanding of trauma. We'll explore the neurobiology of trauma and its potential impact on physical, emotional, and mental well-being. We’ll also investigate trauma from the lens of yoga philosophy.
● Learn the key principles of trauma-informed care. Discover how concepts like safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, and empowerment can be woven into your teaching methodology.
● Develop practical adaptations for asana, pranayama, and savasana. Explore variations and alternatives that promote a sense of safety and control for students with trauma histories.
● Cultivate mindful language and communication skills. Learn how to offer invitations rather than commands, and how to create a supportive and non-triggering verbal environment.
● Understand the importance of boundaries and self-care. Explore ethical considerations and strategies for maintaining your own well-being while holding space for others.
● Engage in experiential practices and practice teaching. Participate in gentle movement and reflective exercises to embody the principles of trauma-informed yoga. Practice teaching using trauma-sensitive language and techniques.
● Discuss real-world scenarios and challenges. Gain practical insights through case studies and group discussions.
This workshop is designed for yoga teachers of all styles who are committed to creating inclusive spaces for their students. Come ready to learn, connect, and expand your teaching toolkit with compassionate and effective trauma-informed practices. Leave feeling more confident and equipped to hold a supportive space for practicing yoga.
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Holding Space Together: Leading Trauma-Sensitive Group Yoga (Part 2 of a 2-part series)
Building upon the foundational principles explored in Part 1, this advanced workshop explores the specific considerations for teaching trauma-sensitive yoga in a group setting. Led by Sara Merrick-Albano, C-IAYT, a yoga therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through trauma recovery, this training provides practical strategies for creating and facilitating group trauma-sensitive yoga classes that prioritize safety, empowerment, and healing.
This workshop is Part 2 of a two-part series and is ideally suited for those who have completed Part 1 or have a strong foundational understanding of trauma-informed yoga principles.
In this experiential workshop, you will:
● Learn to design trauma-sensitive group class sequences. Explore variations, prop usage, and pacing considerations for a group setting.
● Develop skills for holding space and creating a cohesive and supportive group environment. Understand the dynamics of group energy and how to foster connection while respecting individual needs.
● Explore the use of themes and language in a group context. Discover how to weave in empowering and grounding themes while avoiding potentially triggering language.
● Address common challenges and considerations in trauma-sensitive group classes. Discuss topics such as managing diverse needs, handling dysregulation, and establishing clear boundaries.
● Learn strategies for promoting self-regulation and resilience within a group. Explore practices that empower students to connect with their inner resources.
● Engage in experiential exercises and practice teaching. Practice facilitating trauma-sensitive group yoga scenarios and receive constructive feedback.
● Discuss ethical considerations and best practices for leading trauma-sensitive groups.
This workshop is designed for certified yoga teachers who have a foundational understanding of trauma-informed principles and are eager to confidently and effectively lead group yoga classes for individuals impacted by trauma. Deepen your skills, connect with fellow teachers, and learn how to create powerful and healing group experiences.
Yoga Alliance CEUS: 10 hours
10 hours / 2 days: 4 hours each day plus 2 hours of out-of-session time to practice trauma-sensitive language skills and self-reflection.
Part 1: Holding Space: Teaching Trauma-Informed Yoga for Every Body
Saturday, October 4th
1:00-5:00 pm
Part 2: Holding Space Together: Leading Trauma-Sensitive Group Yoga
Saturday, November 1st
1:00-5:00 pm
This is a two-part training series. Both Part 1 & Part 2 must be taken together to complete the program.
If you have prior trauma-informed yoga training, you may be eligible to take Part 2 only with teacher approval. Please call the studio to inquire.
Full Series (Part 1 & Part 2)
💲 $350
Includes 8 hours of live instruction (4 hours per part) + 2 hours of at-home study
(10 CE hours total – Yoga Alliance eligible)
🌿 Early Bird Pricing – Register by September 1
💲 $325 (Save $25)
🔔 To register for Part 2 only with instructor approval, please call the studio directly.
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