FEELING SAFE
Sometimes we want to take a regular yoga class, learn how to make some yoga shapes, sweat, feel strong & flexible, meet some new people..... but it doesn't feel safe.
A number of things may feel unsafe in a yoga class, especially for trauma survivors:
the class is large and people are close together
Sanskrit or chanting may be a part of the class
the instructor dresses in revealing clothes
you're touched without being asked
the class involves partner work
students are singled out with compliments & criticisms
students are expected to wear tight 'yoga' clothing
there is little understanding of the triggering or dissociative potential of yoga props eg. straps and blocks
there is little understanding of the triggering or dissociative potential of metaphorical language eg. stand as though like a tree, rooted to the ground
although variations are offered, instruction is commanding in tone, rather than invitational
emphasis is placed on achieving an ideal, externally judged, shape
If any of the above have bothered you, it might be that a Trauma Informed Yoga class would suit you better.
WHAT IS A TRAUMA INFORMED YOGA CLASS?
An opportunity to take a yoga class with a trauma informed yoga teacher.
Your teacher will:
be informed about triggers, flashbacks, dissociative states & overwhelming emotions
make space for you to step out of any practice and any class
attend to dynamics of safety, especially as they might effect trauma survivors
WHAT A TRAUMA INFORMED YOGA CLASS IS NOT.
TIY classes are not therapy
participants will not be asked to share their trauma histories or to process their memories
These classes are trauma informed classes. As such, we understand that the content may be triggering. We encourage students to take any necessary steps in their self-care. No prior yoga experience needed.
Location
Our sessions will be in the SUPability Centre (entrance down by the Sandy Bay ramp.) Sandy Bay beach Gibraltar
Cost for 8 week programme
£120 for 8 week programme (it works out to £15 per session)
Half of Payment £60 to please be paid before our first session please. The second instalment to please be paid after 4 weeks. If you can not attend a session please notify me, cancellation time 24 hrs minimum. Refunds are not granted. In the unforeseen circumstance I have had to cancel a session, I will offer another session date.
I will send you the payment info after you enrol.
A % of your entry fee goes to support our SUPability charity because it helps people to experience SUP in a fun and safe way, who may not otherwise be able to access the sport.
Day/ Time TBC
Some of you may want to have a 🏊 swim 🏊♂️ after … we have a changing room available on site.