Trauma-Informed & Trauma-Responsive Yoga for Yoga Teachers with Catherine Cook Cottone, Ph.d and C-IAYT

In this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, we welcome Catherine Cook Cottone, a School & Licensed Psychologist, Certified Yoga Therapist & Yoga Researcher. Catherine brings her extensive expertise in trauma-informed and responsive interventions to discuss how yoga practitioners can cultivate and strengthen their inner resources through a trauma-informed approach. We explore strategies for developing self-regulation, implementing de-escalation protocols, and adapting teaching methods for students with varying levels of trauma exposure. Catherine also shares insights on measuring the impact of trauma-informed practices, understanding neuroception, and applying polyvagal theory in yoga teaching. Additionally, Catherine introduces her new book, "Trauma-Informed and Trauma-Responsive Yoga Teaching: A Universal Practice," co-authored with Joanne Spence.

Main Points:

• Self-Regulation Scale
• Explanation of the self-regulation scale and its significance in yoga practice and teaching.
• Key indicators on the scale for gauging students' state.
• De-escalation Protocol
• Essential components of a de-escalation protocol for yoga teachers.
• Case study illustrating the application of de-escalation protocols.
• Teaching Adaptations
• Adaptations and modifications for students with trauma exposure or PTSD symptoms.
• Ensuring inclusivity and sensitivity without singling out individuals.
• Neuroception
• Understanding neuroception to enhance trauma-informed yoga teaching.
• Practical ways to support students' neuroception processes.
• Orienting for Safety
• Importance of orienting practices for setting a safe yoga environment.
• Examples of effective orienting practices.
• Polyvagal Theory
• Contribution of polyvagal theory to understanding trauma and its impact on the nervous system.
• Practical applications in designing trauma-informed yoga sequences.
• Connection and Protection
• Helping students sensitized towards protection over connection due to past trauma.
• Fostering a sense of safety to encourage healthy connection without triggering protective responses.

Find Catherine at www.CatherineCookCottone.com & her co-author at www.JoanneSpence.com

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• 7-Week Course on Yoga, Yoga Therapy & Polyvagal Theory
• Optimal State Mobile App
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

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·        Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by Amy Wheeler, a seasoned expert in yoga therapy. This clinic provides a supportive environment where participants can explore therapeutic yoga techniques to aid in addiction recovery and overall well-being.

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