Trauma Sensitive Yoga
Come Rest & Rejuvenate with us.
In order for the body to heal, it must be able to rest. Once it can rest, it knows what to do.
The ancient practice of yoga, which means “union,” embodies mindful movement and breath. In the practice of yoga, you meet yourself again and again and cultivate a mind-body-soul connection. In this journey of self-discovery, you may gain a deeper sense of connection to yourself, others, your community, and the world at large.
Our practices provide rest and relaxation for those who often spend much of their time in ‘flight or fight’ states of being or hypervigilance. We offer small class sizes and specific yogic practices that are created for those navigating mental health needs or are sensory-sensitive. Our intention is to offer trauma-informed yoga practices to our local community in a setting that feels safe and therapeutic. Further, offering yoga for those who have been through trauma or struggle with mental health concerns is the heart of our mission.
Yoga is a healing modality that provides a pathway to personal joy.
Group Classes:
Our classes are led by Dr. Stacy Walker, who is both an experienced counselor and yoga practitioner (200RYT). She is also the founder and owner of Harmony Harbor Counseling & Wellness and believes strongly in the value of integrating mind-body-spirit practices in the journey of healing.
- Schedule: Every other Friday
- Cost: $35 per class or a Package of 4 for $120
- Time: 75 mins
- Registration required. Class sizes are kept small.
- All equipment provided. Wear comfy clothes and arrive a few minutes ahead of time.
Restorative Yoga (75 mins)
Busy lifestyles and busy minds cause havoc for our nervous system. A regular practice of restorative yoga can balance the nervous system and enhance overall well-being. Restorative yoga allows emotional and physical healing without requiring work or effort. In fact, the value of restorative yoga is found in softening and holding, and making no effort at all to use muscles. Contrary to typical belief, for restorative yoga – the less you work, the more you gain!
Positions are held longer (about 8 to 10 mins) and supportive bolsters and props are utilized for your total comfort. This practice is accessible to anyone and ideal for those recovering from illness or injury.
Gently holding positions, stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, enhances the mind-body connection, and creates space to enter a calm and centered state. Guided meditation and imagery, calming sound healing, and essential oils may be included.
Benefits of Restorative Yoga:
- Enhances mood
- Releases tension and anxiety
- Improves sleep
- Boosts the immune system
- Decreases levels of stress hormones
- Gentle on the body
- Improves digestion
- Enhances flexibility
- Reduces chronic pain
- Enhances compassion for self & others
Yoga Nidra (75 mins)
Yoga nidra translates into “yogic sleep.” This practice induces a state of deep relaxation while maintaining awareness. Listen to a soft guided meditation leading you through the five koshas, or layers, which provide a roadmap for your journey of self-discovery and transformation.
The experience of yoga nidra provides access to delta brainwaves which are usually only present in deep sleep. Delta brainwaves are responsible for healing and restoration in your body while sleeping. In fact, research has shown that 1 hour of yoga nidra is equal to 4 hours of quality sleep!
Benefits of Yoga Nidra:
- Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Decreases chronic pain and lessens use of pain medication
- Reduces symptoms of PTSD
- Lowers stress levels and stress hormones
- Increases mind and body awareness
- Improves concentration, cognitive functioning, and memory
- Reduces negative thoughts
- Balances the nervous system
- Reduces inflammation
- Enhances immune system
- Lowers blood pressure
- Improves self-esteem and confidence