Trauma-sensitive yoga

[3] However, a 2019 systematic review found that the studies to date were not sufficiently robustly designed to provide strong evidence of yoga's effectiveness as a therapy; it called for further research.

[5][6] Trauma can trigger a chronic stress response in the body,[7][8] which may manifest as an uncontrollable and constant state of heightened arousal and fear.

[5][6][10][11] Traumatized individuals often have difficulty soothing their overactive internal sensations without relying on external stimuli, such as food, substances, or self-harm.

[4][14] Though most evidence-based treatments focus on the psychological effects of trauma first and foremost,[4][5] attrition rates are still high, possibly due to heightened physiological arousal during the initial stages of exposure therapy.

[4][15] Mind-body approaches offer a complementary method to traditional psychotherapy, allowing traumatized individuals to reconnect with and identify their own physical sensations.

It typically includes physical postures called asanas, breathing exercises (pranayama), mindfulness, and meditation.

[7][24] Yoga is associated with a reduction in physiological and somatic complaints often attributable to post-traumatic stress disorder, such as pain and anxiety.

It was designed to promote an enhanced feeling of safety for traumatised individuals as they engage in an exercise that is focused on body awareness, which might otherwise be overwhelming for them.

[3] Throughout, participants are encouraged to make choices for themselves about what feels comfortable and safe in their bodies, and instructors spaciously invite students to modify any posture as needed.

[3] Therefore, instructors strive throughout to create an environment that feels both physically and emotionally safe for the participants, thereby facilitating a healing atmosphere for traumatised individuals.