THIS TRAINING IS FOR:

• Yoga teachers who wish to expand their skills and knowledge in trauma-sensitive yoga and somatic practices.
• Social workers and therapists seeking to integrate somatic approaches and compassionate presence into their therapeutic work with individuals who have experienced trauma.
• Health care professionals interested in incorporating yoga and somatic practices as complementary tools in supporting trauma healing and stress reduction.
• Educators looking to enhance their understanding of trauma-sensitive practices to create supportive and inclusive learning environments.
• Community service personnel and activists aiming to utilize trauma-sensitive yoga to promote sustainable healing within their communities.

COST

• $375 +HST per weekend x 5 Modules
• To register for Spring Certification a deposit is required
• All Manuals & additional handouts Included. All manuals are part of Liberty Movement Phrontistery curriculum

MODULE ONE – Foundations of Soma/Trauma Yoga, Compassionate Presence – 20h

In this foundational module, participants will be introduced to the principles of Soma Yoga, which emphasizes the wisdom of the body and embodied experiences. They will learn the basics of trauma-informed practices and compassionate presence, understanding how to create a safe and inclusive space for all students, including those who may have experienced trauma.

• Introduction to Soma Yoga and its principles of body awareness, mindful movement, and embodiment.
• Understanding trauma and its impact on the body, mind, and spirit.
• The amygdala – our brain’s survival referencing system.
• The neurochemistry of chronic threat exposure and its effects on the nervous system.
• The Autonomic Nervous System & Stress Response.
• Cultivating compassionate presence as a yoga teacher and developing self-compassion.

MODULE TWO – Soma Yoga Techniques – Movements for Trauma, Stress, Anxiety and Depression – 20h

In this module, participants will delve deeper into the specific effects of trauma on the body’s movement patterns and nervous system. They will learn somatic practices and movements designed to regulate the nervous system and support trauma healing.

• The neurobiology of trauma and its influence on movement patterns.
• Somatic practices for grounding, centering, and regulating the nervous system.
• Trauma-sensitive adjustments and modifications for yoga postures.
• Polyvagal Theory and its relevance to trauma-informed yoga.
• Creating trauma-informed sequences that promote stability and empowerment.

MODULE THREE – Compassionate Presence and Holding Space with Mind/body Integrations – 20h

In this module, participants will focus on deepening their compassionate presence as yoga teachers. They will explore how to hold space for students with sensitivity and empathy, fostering an environment of trust and support. Additionally, they will explore the koshas, the layers of the human experience, and how trauma can impact each layer.

• Advanced compassionate presence techniques for holding space for students’ emotional experiences.
• Understanding the koshas and their relevance to trauma-informed yoga.
• Integrating trauma-sensitive mind/body practices into each layer of the koshas.
• Our body’s self-communication system: Cultivating emotional intelligence as a yoga teacher.

MODULE FOUR – Soma Yoga IV – Advanced Somatic Practices – 20h

In this module, participants will continue to deepen their understanding and application of Soma Yoga principles. They will explore more advanced somatic practices and movements to support trauma resolution and embodiment.

• Advanced somatic practices for releasing tension and stored trauma in the body.
• Working with the body’s natural intelligence for healing and integration.
• Incorporating breathwork, visualization, and mindfulness techniques into trauma-informed sequences.
• Overview of Attachment Theory and its implications for trauma and healing.
• Addressing challenges and complexities that may arise when working with trauma.

MODULE FIVE – Integrative Practices for Trauma Sensitive and Compassionate Presence – 20h

In the final module, participants will focus on integrating all the knowledge and skills gained throughout the training. They will engage in practical teaching exercises, case studies, and group discussions to refine their trauma-sensitive teaching and compassionate presence approach.

• Practice teaching trauma-informed yoga classes.
• Case studies and group discussions to deepen understanding and problem-solving.
• Creating trauma-informed lesson plans and programs for different populations and settings.
• Final project , Graduation and celebration of the completion of the Soma Yoga and Trauma-Informed Teacher Training.

Note:  Participants are encouraged to engage in personal reflection and self-care throughout the training journey. This  training will include opportunities for ongoing support and mentorship as participants begin to apply their learnings in their teaching practice. This course is certified via Canadian  Yoga Alliance and American Yoga Alliances. ( CYAS) for 100 hours of training.