3 Ways Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Can Help Trauma Survivors Recover

Trauma impacts everyone differently. However, no matter the effects, one thing is for certain — a therapeutic approach to recovery is essential. For some people, a more formalized recovery approach is ideal, and for others, the opposite is true. For people that fall into the latter category, trauma-sensitive yoga is a good idea.

1. Cortisol Reduction

Trauma brings about an undeniable amount of stress, and even worse, trauma victims are often left with an increased stress level for a long time. Elevated stress is often a precursor to an increased level of cortisol. Not only do high levels of cortisol increase your risk for increased stress, but they can also affect how your body functions, specifically when it comes to how your blood sugar and blood pressure are regulated. Without a doubt, keeping these levels in check is important. Yoga is excellent for trauma victims who have sustained increased levels of cortisol because it is known to naturally reduce this level over time. As a result, trauma victims may be able to reduce stress and improve their health performance. 

2. Anxiety Relief

Trauma will often also bring about a heightened level of anxiety in the victim. Traumatic events are often unexpected, which can prompt the victim to have a constant concern that something unexpected will happen again. This type of mindset can keep a victim in a constant state of anxiety turmoil. Yoga is thought to naturally subdue your stress responders and instead create a more level and relaxed feeling while you are engaged in the activity, and even after. Consequently, yoga has long been thought to be a natural form of anxiety relief, which makes it an ideal recovery option for trauma sufferers. 

3. Intentional Behaviors

Recovery from trauma is not something that happens magically or instantly. It is instead an intentional process that the victim must take ownership of. A large part of this recovery involves being intentional in both your thoughts and your actions. For instance, an intentional habit to feel and think healthier thoughts. Yoga is all about intentionality, as the postures and stances are less about physical ability and more about your ability to connect your thoughts with your physical actions. Over time, trauma victims can gain more control over their ability to be intentional.

If you have suffered from trauma and you are looking for an unconventional path to recovery, look for trauma-sensitive yoga options near you.