Training Overview: Trauma-Informed Yoga is designed to help ease survivors' physiological symptoms and help gain a greater sense of ownership over their bodies.  This happens when participants are permitted and invited to "choose" their level of participation as opposed to emulating an instructor or other participants.  Trauma can lead to imbalances in the nervous system that often result in illnesses such as PTSD, depression and anxiety.  Evidence has shown that body based practices can be effective in guiding the body back to a "balanced" state, essentially re-setting the nervous system, and leading to overall improvement in health.  The practice differs from traditional yoga in that it consistently encourages participants to have full control over their bodies - if, when and how they move throughout class. The practice is designed to support survivors in "re-learning" how to be in their bodies in a safe and nurturing way.

Presenter Biography: Linda Towle works as a Parenting Coach for MN CarePartner.  She works as a fitness instructor and has been certified to teach yoga for the past 10 years.  She recently became certified in Trauma-Informed Yoga and has been incorporating the practice into her work with parents at MNCP.