Nov 09 2007
Yoga as Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence
I was pleased to read here that the Alachua County Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center has incorporated Yoga into their support services for survivors of sexual violence.
Survivors of sexual violence are often challenged to feel good in their bodies and sometimes experience damaged mind-body connection. Memories of violence can often be intrusive, making it difficult for survivors to be present and remain present in their daily lives. They are also challenged to connect with others and to trust again.
Many styles of Yoga, but Kripalu Yoga in particular, promotes a sense of well being, nurtures feelings of being ok in one’s own skin and enforces wholeness of body, mind and spirit.
Kripalu’s emphasis on meditation in motion, brings students into the present moment where the mind is not dwelling on painful or frightening memories.
Yoga brings students into a community of others who share a safe space, the experience of being present in the moment as well as a chance to tune into one self and one’s connection to the universe.
With an experienced, nurturing teacher survivors of sexual violence can find peace and healing through their practice. I hope that more trauma and crisis centers will explore Yoga as a supportive practice for survivors.
Om shantih.
Thursday, November 22nd, 9:00 – 10:15AM