Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Group Work
Trauma Centre Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is a specialised approach that recognises the potential impact of trauma on our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. A trauma-sensitive yoga session focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment and empowering participants to engage with their bodies in a way that promotes healing and resilience.
Unlike traditional yoga classes, trauma-sensitive yoga is mindful of potential triggers and emphasises choice, consent, and autonomy at all times. TCTSY incorporates movement and grounding techniques, and develops your capacity for feeling your body, noticing your breath, and making choices throughout the sessions that feel helpful for you.
The benefits of trauma-sensitive yoga can be profound, particularly for those who have experienced trauma or are dealing with symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder, or complex-PTSD. This approach can aid in regulating your nervous system, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improving self-awareness. Trauma-sensitive yoga provides a safe space to explore bodily sensations and emotions at your own pace, promoting a gradual restoration of trust and safety in your body.
Evidence Based TCTSY
Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is a clinically proven intervention and integrates trauma theory, attachment theory, and neuroscience with yoga philosophy and practice. Research studies into TCTSY have clearly demonstrated reductions in PTSD symptoms within 8 weeks. Our TSY facilitator, Jessica, has completed all three levels of TCTSY training.
TCTSY places power with the individual rather than the facilitator, and all shapes and practices offered are invitational, making them optional at all times. By prioritising interoception (the felt sense of the body) to guide decision-making, TCTSY enables participants to restore the connection between their mind and body and reclaim a sense of agency, which is often compromised by trauma.
Our programs offer a gradual and manageable introduction to the practices while acknowledging potential discomfort that can arise when exploring body sensations. Each class provides participants with a range of choices and maintains consistency and predictability to support a safe and transformative healing journey.
Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) isn't your usual yoga—it's a practical journey back to self. Grounded in trauma-sensitive principles, our groups offer a space for participants to reconnect with themselves, learn to befriend their bodies, explore inner experiences, and tap into somatic resources for wellbeing.
Potential outcomes of TCTSY
Reduced PTSD symptoms.
Improved overall functioning.
Better tolerance for physical and sensory experiences.
Heightened emotional awareness.
Improved emotional tolerance.
Empowerment through mindful choicemaking.
Registration process for Providers (ACC SCS)
Step 1: Request Purchase Order (PO) from ACC
Please contact the client’s Recovery Partner to request:
· SCSGTT x1 – Triage (required for all groups/retreats) (Brighter Life with Jess & Amy)
Plus relevant group code:· SCSGT x12 – Online Trauma Sensitive Yoga groups (Brighter Life with Jess & Amy)
· SCSGT x16 – In-person Trauma Sensitive Yoga groups (Brighter Life with Jess & Amy)
· SCSGT x7 – Tools for Transforming Trauma (1-day retreats) (Brighter Life with Jess & Amy)
Vendor ID: VAH127 (The Nelson Clinic)
Facilitators:
Jessica Dziwulska – Yoga Specialist (ACC ID: PVT0423JD)
Amy Benjamin – ACC Registered Counsellor (ACC ID: PAS256)
Please copy: amy.benjamin@nelsonclinic.nz and groups@nelsonclinic.nz into your email to the recovery partner.
Step 2: Registration (The Nelson Clinic)
Once the PO is approved, The Nelson Clinic will send a registration form.
Step 3: Triage call
Once PO and registration are received, Amy will contact the client for a brief triage call to assess needs and provide orientation.
Your facilitators
Jessica Dziwulska
Amy Benjamin
Details
Term 3 Online -
Mondays, 10:00–11:00am (All genders) — 10 Aug–28 Sept (8 weeks)
Wednesdays, 6:45–7:45pm (All genders) — 5 Aug–29 Sept (8 weeks)
Term 3 In person -
Tuesdays 4 Aug - 22 Sept (8 weeks)
Yoga Ground, Grey Lynn Auckland
Group 1: 10:45am - 12:15pm (Female only) FULL
Group 2: 12:30 - 2:00pm (LGBTQ+ All Genders)
Wednesdays 5 Aug - 23 Sept (8 weeks)
Yoga Ground, Grey Lynn Auckland
12:30 - 2:00pm (Female only)
Thursdays 6 Aug - 30 Sept (8 weeks)
Rothesay Bay Hall Auckland
11:00am - 12:30pm (Female only)
The Provider Brighter Life Booklet is a comprehensive booklet outlining everything you need to know about our Trauma-Sensitive Yoga groups and day retreats, including the evidence base, FAQs, guidance on tailoring wellbeing plans and setting SMART goals, term dates and locations, and client testimonials.
