Yoga for Healing

About

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) in collaboration with Survivor Advocacy Services (SAS) is excited to announce a new support service for survivors of sexual violence--Yoga for Healing. CAPS and SAS believe in all forms of healing and this program will explore reconnection to the self through mind, body, and spirit. In Bennett’s book, Emotional Yoga, she reminds us that our emotions often act as a bridge between our bodies and minds, which are intimately intertwined and connected with our emotions (2002). This program will provide survivors of sexual violence a means of becoming reacquainted with their bodies, help them become grounded in the present moment, and empower them to explore the benefits of mindfulness as they flow breath to movement in guided trauma-informed yoga practice and meditation. 

Memories of sexually violent experiences can be intrusive, which can create challenges for survivors. These memories can also make it difficult for survivors who are looking to establish connection in their lives and learn how to trust again. The entire experience of practicing yoga, can help survivors find union between seemingly disconnected and challenging aspects of the self; allowing participants to slowly build the pieces into an integrated whole. In The Body Remembers: The Psychophysiology of Trauma and Treatment, Rothschild recognizes the need for therapy to consist of helping people to stay in their bodies and to delve deeper into understanding these important bodily sensations (2000). Yoga’s focus on self-acceptance provides survivors with tangible benefits that will become noticeable throughout their practice. This gradual integration can be transformational and healing for a survivor of sexual violence.