By Leslii Stevens Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher, ERYT500, YACEP, Ayurveda Practitioner
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the pervasive issue of domestic violence and honor the resilience of survivors. As a yoga teacher and trauma-informed practitioner, I have the privilege of working with women who have survived domestic violence, and I donate my time and services to help them heal and rebuild their lives through yoga.
Understanding the Impact of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is not just physical; it includes emotional, psychological, and financial abuse that leaves deep scars. Survivors often carry trauma that affects every aspect of their lives self-worth, relationships, physical health, and mental well-being. The path to healing is a personal journey, and yoga can be a powerful tool in this process.
How Yoga Supports Survivors of Domestic Violence
1. Creating a Safe Space: In yoga, safety is paramount. For survivors, feeling safe is a fundamental step toward healing. I create a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where women can reconnect with their bodies at their own pace. Whether through private sessions or group classes, the focus is always on comfort and consent.
2. Regaining Control and Empowerment: Domestic violence often leaves survivors feeling powerless. Yoga empowers them by giving them the opportunity to make choices—how to move, how to breathe, when to rest. This sense of control can be incredibly healing, helping them rebuild trust in themselves and their intuition.
3. Mind-Body Connection: Trauma can disconnect us from our bodies. Yoga helps to gently restore this connection through mindful movement and breath awareness. Practices like gentle stretching, restorative poses, and pranayama (breathwork) can help survivors tune into their bodies in a nurturing way, fostering a sense of presence and grounding.
4. Calming the Nervous System: Survivors of domestic violence often experience heightened anxiety, hypervigilance, and PTSD. Yoga’s focus on breath and mindfulness activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Techniques like Legs Up the Wall (a personal favorite of mine) can be particularly soothing, offering a simple way to calm the body and mind.
5. Supporting Emotional Release: Emotions are often stored in the body, and yoga provides a gentle way to release them. Through movement and breath, survivors can process and let go of the emotional weight they carry. I often incorporate sound baths and guided relaxation to support this release, creating a holistic healing experience.
Spotlighting My Work with DV Survivors
I am deeply committed to supporting survivors of domestic violence, and I regularly donate my time and services to help women on their healing journeys. Whether it’s through group classes, private sessions, or workshops, my goal is always to empower and uplift. One of the most rewarding aspects of this work is witnessing the transformation that occurs when a survivor begins to reclaim her sense of self and inner strength through yoga.
How You Can Help
Awareness is the first step toward change. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, know that help is available. Consider supporting local organizations that provide resources for survivors, or simply take a moment to learn more about the impact of domestic violence.
If you’re interested in learning more about how yoga can support survivors, please reach out. Together, we can continue to create spaces of healing and hope.
with love & light
Leslii
Resources Are Available
National Domestic Violence Hotline:1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Text "START" to 88788
For immediate safety, call 911
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