FAQs

What’s the difference between TCTSY and TIY?

TCTSY is a specific intervention/adjunct therapy for those who have experienced complex trauma or complex PTSD. There is a defined way of working that is boundaried and structured within that specific modality. If you don’t fit into the traditional categories of what would be considered complex trauma/PTSD, Trauma Informed Yoga may be more suitable. The process is similar (invitation language, choice-making, shared authentic relationships, not hands-on) but is less formal and less clinical as it can evolve more freely. 

What should I wear to a session?

- Comfortable clothing so you feel like you can move. It doesn’t need to be a traditional ‘yoga’ outfit but avoid clothing that’s restrictive of movement (ie. tight jeans)

- Light layers that you can add or remove as the temperature in the space can fluctuate

Can you come to my house?

It’s not practical to have Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and/or Trauma-Informed Yoga sessions in your own home (unless we’re working together remotely online. If you have mobility issues or accessibility contact me and we can discuss the possibility of remote work. This practice is about sharing space.

Is this like a normal yoga class?

Although we might explore appropriate yoga forms, Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and Trauma Informed Yoga are not your typical yoga class. Some of the things that might come up in a typical yoga class wouldn’t be present in a yoga for trauma class include:

- No sanskrit, the language of yoga

- No religious or cultural iconography (no chanting, symbols etc.)

- No directive element (it’s about making choices through invitation). This can be different if you’re used to a typical studio-based yoga class in which you’re being directed. For those of us that are looking to gain more agency, being asked to make choices can feel unusual or even challenging, we work with this

Is this yoga?

Yoga for me is about creating a deeper connection with ourselves, the world around us and how we relate to one another. We come into yoga shapes and forms but the process is different.  For those of us that have experienced trauma, it can be challenging to explore new spaces like a yoga studio, particularly if we’re not sure what to expect from a yoga class. Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and Trauma Informed Yoga offer a more comfortable place to explore yoga and themselves.

What can come up in Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and/or Trauma-Informed Yoga?

When we work with the body in the aftermath of trauma, things can come up. Unfamiliar or new feelings and sensations may arise that can generate difficult emotions that are uncomfortable. As we’re primarily working with the body, the mind also needs its own space to process, which is why it’s important that you have access to talking therapy in a professional context if you’re engaging in TCTSY. Similar experiences may arise in Trauma Informed Yoga and while there’s not such a strict protocol it’s still valuable to have a trusted confidante, family member or friend who can support you.

How long will it take to notice a difference?

Each of us is unique and so our experience with processing trauma will be unique too. You may notice changes in months or even years, it depends where you are in the process. If you’ve done lots of therapy in the past, this can help move you on to a new phase in learning to manage trauma. But things will change, or you’ll notice a shift in your body. Our experiences with trauma fluctuate over time so you may revisit the practice to support you when you need it.

Will Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and/or Trauma-Informed Yoga fix me?

Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) and Trauma Informed Yoga are not about fixing or healing. When we’re dealing with trauma, we are in a continual process with it. However, the process of TCTSY has shown that some of the symptoms of trauma will become milder or you’ll be better able to manage them. Link to research.