Trauma-informed yoga
We offer trauma-informed yoga at our Blacksburg office
Trauma-informed yoga is a gentle, empowering approach to movement and mindfulness that prioritizes your sense of safety and choice. Unlike traditional yoga classes, our sessions emphasize feeling safe in your body at your own pace, with no pressure to achieve specific poses or keep up with others. This specialized practice combines mindful movement, breath awareness, and grounding techniques to help you reconnect with your body in a way that feels comfortable and supportive.
Trauma-informed yoga can support individuals experiencing
Disconnection from body sensations: Learn to safely reconnect with your body through gentle movement and mindful awareness, building trust in your physical experience at your own pace.
Anxiety and hypervigilance: Practice grounding techniques and breath awareness to help regulate your nervous system and find moments of calm.
Trauma and PTSD symptoms: Rebuild a sense of safety in your body through movements that you control, with options to modify or pause at any time.
Chronic stress and tension: Release physical stress patterns while learning practical tools for self-regulation that you can use in daily life.
Depression and low energy: Engage in gentle movement that honors your current energy level while gradually building vitality and connection.
How trauma-informed yoga works
Trauma-informed yoga focuses on creating a predictable, safe environment where you can explore movement and breath at your own pace. Unlike traditional yoga classes that emphasize precise alignment or achieving specific poses, our approach emphasizes choice, personal agency, and internal awareness. Classes Sessions use invitational language that offers options rather than commands, and there's never any hands-on adjustment or pressure to do more than feels comfortable.
One-on-one sessions are offered both in-person and virtually. Small groups can be accommodated virtually. Our instructor is trained in both trauma-sensitive approaches and yoga, understanding how trauma impacts the nervous system and how movement can support healing when offered in a safe, controlled way. We emphasize practices that help you stay grounded in the present moment while building a repertoire of self-regulation tools.
What to expect with trauma-informed yoga
Before Your First Session
- Complete a brief intake form about your needs and any physical considerations
- Have a short consultation with the instructor to discuss your goals and any concerns
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that allow easy movement
- No special equipment is needed - we provide mats and props, or you can bring your own
During Your Session
- Sessions last 60 minutes
- Class begins with orientation to the space and setting intentions for practice
- Simple breathing exercises and gentle movement options are offered
- You always have choice about what movements to try
- Modifications and alternatives are provided for all movements
- You can rest, pause, or adjust the practice at any time
After Your Session
- Many people feel calmer and more connected to their body
- Some might notice physical relaxation or emotional release
- Take time to transition slowly back to your day
- Weekly sessions are recommended for building a consistent practice
- Skills learned can be used between sessions for self-regulation
- For some, connecting to the body through yoga may bring up unexpected emotions or thoughts
Ready to explore if trauma-informed yoga is right for you?
Insurance does not cover trauma-informed yoga. Hour-long sessions are $100 and must be paid before being scheduled. Sliding scale rates may be available for those who qualify.
Book a complimentary 15-minute consultation to learn more about this healing practice and how it might support your wellness journey.
Contact Maria Flaccavento at maria@thecalmed.com to schedule a consultation or session.
Maria Flaccavento
Certified Yoga Teacher & Certified Trauma-informed Yoga Instructor