I've tried yoga and meditation before and it didn't work. How would this experience be different?

First, please hear me when I say - you are not alone, and you are not broken.  There is a really good reason people who struggle with anxiety and/or have a trauma history have difficulty with practices that require you to be still, quiet and deeply connected with your body.  You brain may be wired for survival, meaning you quickly escalate or shutdown.  That makes it really hard to enjoy a traditional yoga class and breathwork or meditation experience. The difference with Exalted Ease: it is based on my research, clinical training from masters in the fields of mental health/Trauma-Informed Yoga Therapy, successes of implementing the practices into the treatment of my individual therapy clients, and the transformation of my own life. It is my life's work, not only from a place of deep spiritual awakening, but also backed by scientific, evidenced-based practices. I keep the class small (15 people or less) so it doesn't feel overwhelming and you can really get to know your group. Support is vital when creating change, and may also have been something that was missing for you in the past. I understand why it was uncomfortable for you before, and I have incorporated techniques that can help! 

Why trauma-informed yoga? How is that supposed to help me?

Yogic practices such as movement, breathing exercises, grounding and meditation can help you learn to soothe your anxiety or "wake up" from that state of exhaustion that trauma triggers can cause. They can help you "rewire" your brain to get out of survival mode and just be present so you can enjoy life - right here, right now.

What is the cost?

The life investment is $200 per month. You can cancel your membership at any time if the program does not right for you. *You may be eligible to use your FSA/HSA account! 

I'm not experienced with yoga, and I'm not flexible and/or I'm out of shape.  Can I still do this?

Absolutely. At Exalted Ease, everyone moves at their own pace - or not at all! It is not about trying to make your body into a shape like everyone else's - it is about noticing and responding to what feels good for you. *Note: the only physical requirement is ability to get up and down from the floor without assistance. We can discuss any other concerns to determine if the class would feel right to you.

I am very busy. What is time commitment?

2 hours per week - more or less if you wish! We will meet in-person 3 times per month for 2 hours for anxious energy release, deep relaxation and support/connection, then you'll be provided a video or activity to complete at home one week.  You'll have full access to short and long videos on an on-demand video website to soothe your anxiety that you can do at home anytime you wish...or not at all. You'll also be invited to quarterly social events in a safe setting to form even deeper bonds with your group...and have fun! If that feels like a lot, ask yourself - how much time do you waste worrying per week? (*mic drop*) *Note - attendance at all activities is never mandatory; full participation is just encouraged to get the most benefit!

Why weekly? 

I'm going to be blunt here - there is no fast track to healing.  In fact, I feel that "quick fixes" are the reason many people continue to struggle with anxiety no matter how hard they try.  True transformation that actually lasts a lifetime takes slowly and consistently introducing change so your nervous system does not become overwhelmed and resist it.  Support is also a key component of creating lasting change - therefore the regular in-person events. 

What if I fail?  I'm scared I will try this, it won't work, then I'll feel worse.

This is a common fear.  Simply put - you can't fail.  I've had people in my yoga classes that literally lay on their mat for 80% of the class. I think this is beautiful!  That means their body needed rest, and they responded. I actually am honored they felt safe enough to close their eyes and be at peace in our space! In Exalted Ease, it is not about the pose or the movement - it is all about connecting with your body to learn what you want and need to soothe any wounded parts of you. One of my favorite yoga teachers says, "Take what you need, leave what you don't".  I feel this way about Exalted Ease. Some of the concepts and tools will resonate with you and you will use them for the rest of your life. Others will not be a good fit. Your body, your choice - part of your healing will be to tune into your emotions and how your body feels to decide what is right for you. That awareness, attunement, and empowered decision-making alone is success to me!