Trauma-informed yoga is a form of yoga as exercise that has been adapted for individuals affected by psychological trauma. It is designed to promote an enhanced feeling of safety for traumatized individuals as they engage in an exercise that is focused on body awareness, which might otherwise be overwhelming for them. Trauma-informed yoga is based on a particular understanding of trauma, one that emphasizes its impact on the entire mind-body system, as opposed to particular mental states viewed in isolation from the physical body. Its goal is to help trauma survivors develop a greater sense of mindfulness and self-awareness, and to provide a safe, secure, and predictable environment surrounded by a like-minded community.

Trauma-informed yoga teachers are trained to be conscious of trauma and understand how trauma intersects with the practice. They are taught to assume that all students have had some kind of trauma in their lives and to teach in a way that offers a space for healing from trauma, rather than triggering it. Trauma-sensitive yoga has been formulated from five core domains which, if non-optimal, could produce adverse side effects among a traumatized population by reminding them of their traumas.

Trauma-informed yoga can support post-traumatic growth and healing for trauma survivors. It can help reduce symptoms of PTSD and provide a safe space for people to pay attention to signs of dissociation and distress that may come up, and to stop whenever they need. The goal of trauma-informed yoga is to be able to practice different postures, breathwork, or meditation styles without becoming triggered.

In summary, trauma-informed yoga is a form of yoga that is adapted to meet the specific needs and symptoms of trauma survivors. It is designed to create a safe and secure environment for individuals affected by psychological trauma, and to promote mindfulness and self-awareness. Trauma-informed yoga teachers are trained to be conscious of trauma and understand how trauma intersects with the practice. The goal of trauma-informed yoga is to support post-traumatic growth and healing for trauma survivors.