Yoga helps survivors of trauma to feel comfortable within their own body once more, and it also helps to provide them with coping mechanisms that can be employed outside of the yoga studio or doctor’s office to deal with the aftermath of the trauma. Many people who suffer from trauma find that it can be more difficult to deal with the triggers and upsetting times that follow the trauma than it is to deal with the trauma itself.
Supported Forward Fold, Seated Twist and Fire Log Pose are all very effective Yoga asanas that are available to Yoga practitioners of all levels. Seated Yoga asanas that are practiced in a restorative manner are particularly nourishing and relaxing. Restorative Poses will also help a trauma survivor to feel held and supported. Supported Forward Fold is an accessible Yoga asana that allows a trauma survivor to relax and release a feeling of being frozen.
Muscle tearing, bone fractures, lacerations, bruising, and edema are common physical manifestations of trauma. This type of damage causes pain and discomfort, but yoga can be used to relieve both of these unpleasant sensations. The artful stretching involved in yoga improves blood flow to the skeletal muscle in the body, resulting in better oxygenation of the tissues and more flexibility in the muscles. Yoga promotes healing through improved circulation; muscle pain is relieved by this.
In 2008, The Washington Post reported that the cost of PTSD and depression caused by combat stress in recent wars could run as high as $6 million in two years. Yoga for post traumatic stress disorder not only has the potential to eliminate many of the symptoms of PTSD; but it, also, shows promise in offering sufferers a future filled with peace and joy.