Overcoming Trauma through Yoga: Reclaiming Your Body

Overcoming Trauma through Yoga presents a research-backed, trauma-informed yoga program designed for survivors, clinicians, and yoga teachers. The book addresses the cognitive, emotional, and physiological symptoms of PTSD through practical approaches and exercises grounded in what trauma survivors need to know for healing. The introduction is written by Bessel van der Kolk. The program was developed by experts at the Trauma Center at Justice Resource Institute and uses somatic healing through gentle breath, mindfulness, and movement practices. The book covers specific needs of trauma survivors practicing yoga, including adjusting pace, creating safety, and accessing empowered choice. The final chapters provide targeted guidance for three audiences: survivors learning to develop a trauma-sensitive practice at home and in studios; clinicians integrating yoga into clinical care and pairing yoga-based interventions with therapeutic goals; and yoga teachers building trauma-sensitive classes and responding to triggered responses.