TRAUMA-INFORMED YOGA: MOVING GENTLY THROUGH ADDICTION RECOVERY

The Healing Power of Movement in Recovery

Addiction takes a toll on the body and mind, often leaving behind tension, anxiety, and emotional pain. At BriteLife Recovery, we believe healing should include the body as well as the mind. That’s why trauma-informed yoga is a vital part of our holistic addiction treatment approach.

What Is Trauma-Informed Yoga?

Trauma-informed yoga is a gentle, adaptable practice designed to help individuals feel safe and empowered in their own bodies. Unlike traditional yoga classes, trauma-informed sessions are led by instructors trained to recognize the signs of trauma and create an environment of choice, respect, and non-judgment. At BriteLife, our holistic therapy offerings include yoga specifically tailored for those in recovery.

Benefits of Trauma-Informed Yoga in Addiction Treatment

• Restoring the Mind-Body Connection: Substance use can disconnect us from our physical selves. Trauma-informed yoga uses mindful movement and breath to help clients safely reconnect with their bodies.
• Supporting Emotional Regulation: Slow, intentional movement calms the nervous system, making it easier to process difficult feelings and reduce anxiety.
• Fostering Self-Compassion: The non-competitive, accepting nature of trauma-informed yoga helps clients develop patience, acceptance, and gentleness with themselves—qualities that are essential in recovery.
• Building Trust and Empowerment: Clients are always encouraged to move at their own pace and make choices that feel right for them, rebuilding trust in their intuition and autonomy.

A Complement to Evidence-Based Therapies

At BriteLife, trauma-informed yoga is integrated into our residential treatment programs, alongside evidence-based therapies like CBT and mindfulness. This comprehensive approach supports the whole person, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of healing.