What is trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY)

What is Trauma Centre Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY)

Trauma Centre Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is a yoga intervention designed specifically for survivors of complex trauma or complex PTSD. It's proven particularly helpful for survivors of domestic, childhood and sexual abuse, vulnerable young people, and military veterans.

Unlike a lot of what gets labelled "trauma-informed", TCTSY is backed by a growing body of evidence. Of note, two randomised control studies have measured its effectiveness, and both found positive results: after a ten-week program, participants no longer met the criteria for PTSD. You can dig into the research papers here.

TCTSY was developed in consultation with trauma survivors, drawing on hatha yoga, attachment theory, trauma theory and neuroscience.

Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is based on 5 principles:

Invitational language

In trauma-sensitive yoga (TCTSY), each cue is preceded by an invitation rather than an instruction so you can focus on experiencing your body in a way that feels managable for you.

Choice making

Choices are offered throughout the practice, and it's always entirely up to you whether you take them.

At its core, TCTSY is about handing you back the authority to decide when and how you move.

Interoception

Interoception is your ability to notice and respond to what's happening inside your body, and it's central to how we experience ourselves.

For survivors, this can be genuinely challenging. Trauma can disconnect you from your own internal signals. The good news is that interoceptive awareness can be rebuilt with practice, and that's exactly what TCTSY is designed to support.

In a session, you'll be invited to notice sensations as they arise and, if you choose, to respond to them. always staying within what feels tolerable for you.

Shared Authentic Experience

In trauma-sensitive yoga (TCTSY) we aim to create a safe space to explore movement. Facilitators practice alongside participants and there is no right or wrong way to practice. 

Before either a group or individual session there's an enrollment process during which we’ll discuss previous yoga or movement experience and identify anything you need to make the space accessible for you. You'll also have the chance to give feedback throughout, shaping what future sessions look like.

Non-Coercion

Ultimately, TCTSY exists to support your discovery and empowerment, never to push you anywhere you don't want to go.

What is the difference between trauma-sensitive yoga (TCTSY) and regular yoga or trauma-informed yoga classes?

TCTSY classes are no-touch, and facilitators stay on their own mat, practising alongside you rather than adjusting or correcting.

The emphasis is on the felt experience of moving, not on getting it "right" — so there's very little direction about how to move, and no one is ever singled out or corrected in class.

No yoga experience or equipment is needed, and you can practise from a chair or a mat.

Facilitators go through a 300-hour training over six months, covering the structure of TCTSY alongside trauma theory, attachment theory and neurobiology. We're regulated by the Centre for Trauma and Embodiment in Massachusetts, USA, and required to keep up ongoing professional development to stay qualified.

By contrast, "trauma-informed yoga" isn't a regulated term. there’s no mandatory training or governing body behind it, so those classes can vary widely and may include hands-on assistance. It’s Worth checking this with the facilitator directly before attending one.

How do I attend Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) classes or sessions?

I offer one to one Trauma-Sensitive Yoga sessions for those based in London in person or online.

What’s involved for me when I sign up for a trauma-sensitive yoga class?

You have the option to schedule either a 15-minute phone call or a Zoom meeting to talk more about TCTSY and answer any questions you may have and i will ask you to complete a short enrollment form. I'll also give you some more information about what to expect when attending your first trauma-sensitive yoga class.

You can find out more about the Enrollment process here.

Why do I need a support network or therapist to take part?

TCTSY is not talking therapy. However, challenging trauma-related thoughts or emotions can arise as a result of the practice. For this reason, we ask that everyone participating in trauma-sensitive yoga (TCTSY) have a support network or a therapeutic relationship in which to verbally and cognitively process their experiences. This relationship doesn’t have to be in psychotherapy or counselling. It could be with a spiritual or religious guide, through a 12-step fellowship or with a community leader or other person who supports you.

I have no yoga experience and limited mobility — can I still take part?

Yes. No previous yoga experience is required. this is a clinical intervention designed to meet you wherever you are. You can practise from a chair or a mat, whichever suits you.

In group classes, the room is set up with both mats and chairs, and every shape is offered both ways, so you choose how you want to mov

Ready to explore trauma-sensitive yoga?

Have a look at the Trauma Sensitive Yoga pages on my site and get in touch with me to discuss exploring Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY)