“Yoga allows survivors to regain a sense of comfort and ease within their own shape, to process nonverbally feelings that transcend language, and to experientially cultivate gratitude towards the body, which serve as a reminder of one’s resilience.” -Boeder-Harris, 2012
Yoga as Healing
The Yoga as Healing program was developed by Zabie Yamasaki and will be facilitated by one of our local SHARE Center affiliated instructors who have been fully trained in the implementation of this program. (Instructor profiles below.)
The program will explore re-connection to the self through mind, body, and spirit. It will provide survivors with a means of becoming reacquainted with their bodies, help them become grounded in the present moment, and allow them to explore the benefits of mindfulness as they flow breath to movement in guided practice and meditation.
Classes are comprised of a 8-week series which focus on intentional weekly themes. Classes will establish consistency and will build upon each other each week. Below is a sample outline of an 8-week class series:
- Week 1: Intention and Orientation
Mantra: “I now take my own power back. I am safe and I am free.” - Louise Hay
- Week 2: Safety
Mantra: I am safe, I am loved, I am home, I am in my body.
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Week 3: Mindfulness + Self-Care
Mantra: I am enough. I allow myself to rest. My body is wise and strong. I am doing my best. That is enough.
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Week 4: Boundaries
Mantra: My boundaries guide me to wholeness and truth. I release what does not serve me. I reclaim more space for me.
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Week 5: Self-Esteem
Mantra: I am courageous, I am fearless, I am whole, I stand in my power.
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Week 6: Strength + Trauma-Informed Art
Mantra: I am not defined by what has happened to me. I honor the power of my resilience. I trust my body to be my guide.
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Week 7: Trust
Mantra: I trust the strength of my body to hold me today.
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Week 8: Self-Compassion and Community + Sound Healing
Mantra: I am present within myself. I can center myself with the ease of my breath. I feel grounded, confident, worthy, and whole. I am enough.
Meet our Yoga Teachers
Nikki Adams
I am a certified Trauma Informed Yoga Teacher and a survivor myself. My passion is to help survivors empower themselves to make the steps toward their healing journey through yoga and wellness. I love teaching classes that are fun, challenging, empowering, and most of all compassionate to ALL bodies!! I seek to help others create and find their own power within and to build a yoga practice that is true to themselves. You can reach me at shanthal.nichols@yale.edu.
Gina Roch
Hello! My name is Gina Roch I’m a Trauma-Informed Yoga & Meditation Teacher and Wellness Coach. My healing journey started more than a decade ago when I was in a low place. My heart yearned for more out of life. My heart yearned to nourish and heal seen and unseen wounds; To forgive and love unconditionally; To live boldly and walk by faith, not sight. To connect with a loving and supportive community, and to ultimately walk authentically in my purpose. My journey has led me to you! As your teacher, here are some things you can expect from our practice together:
It’s not about the poses, it’s about YOU! Always check in with yourself –before, during, and after our practice. You’re always in control. All of my cues are suggestions, never directives. Take what you need and leave the rest. Get curious. Yoga is a time to explore! It doesn’t always have to be so serious. Challenge yourself but more importantly, have fun!
You can reach me at gina.roch@yale.edu.
If you would like to learn more about or enroll in the Trauma-Informed Yoga Program, please email us at sharecenter@yale.edu.