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 this program: 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. Techniques such as keeping the class small (15 people) so it doesn't feel overwhelming, doing the same sequence several classes in a row so you know what to expect, using scent and sound to initiate your relaxation response...the list of intentional detail to help you feel safe goes on and on.

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 $150 per month. This includes the one hour weekly therapeutic class, a subscription to my on-demand video website so you can engage in movement, grounding, meditation, breathwork, etc. anytime, anywhere you'd like! You will also get first dibs on registering for any public events I offer, such as retreats. *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. In this class, 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.

How is this different than a public yoga studio or free YouTube class?

Lots of differences! First, this class is designed thoughtfully for trauma survivors and those who struggle with anxiety.  The movements, the pacing, the room itself, the scents, the sounds - everything is carefully curated to create a environment to help you feel secure.  The classes are beased on my Release, Relax, Redirect Method©️for anxiety.  I keep the classes small - only 15 people max.  I do not use touch in my studio because I am respectful of those who may have experienced trauma to their bodies and do not feel safe with touch.  There is also a ton of freedom and choice in my classes.  I don't teach, I suggest.  If it doesn't feel right for you, you don't have to do it.  I have incorporated research and personal experience of the last 25 years in the mental health field to create these classes beyond my yoga teacher training.

I am very busy. What is time commitment?

1 hour per week - or more if you wish! We will meet in-person weekly for one hour, then you can continue your practice at home if you'd like. You'll have full access to short and long videos on my on-demand video website to soothe your anxiety.  If that feels like a lot, ask yourself - how much time do you waste worrying per week? (*mic drop*) *Note - attendance is never mandatory; full participation is just encouraged to get the most benefit! The monthly membership covers all costs.  You choose whether or not you attend.

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.  

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 this program, 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". Some of the movements 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!