Trauma-Sensitive Movement: Reconnecting with Yourself Safely

Trauma-Sensitive Yoga – A Gentle Path to Healing

Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TSY) offers a welcoming and safe space where you can explore movement and breath in a way that feels right for you. It is designed as a supportive practice for those who have experienced trauma, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, or developmental trauma.

Developed by David Emerson and Dr Bessel van der Kolk at the Justice Resource Institute (JRI) in Boston, MA, Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is an evidence-based approach that fosters connection, choice, and empowerment.

A Gentle & Choice-Based Approach

In these sessions, you are in control of how you move. We offer gentle invitations rather than instructions, so you can tune into your body at your own pace. There is no expectation to perform movements in a certain way—everything is optional. You might notice different sensations, and that’s okay. You decide what feels comfortable for you.

This practice is not about achieving perfect poses but rather about exploring what feels safe and supportive for your body. There is no physical assistance or corrections, and we honor your personal experience throughout the session.

What to Expect in a Session

Trauma-Sensitive Movement is designed to support self-awareness, grounding, and choice-making. Through gentle movements and mindful attention, you may find moments of ease, presence, and connection. Our language encourages curiosity and self-compassion, allowing you to reconnect with yourself in a way that feels right for you.

If you are considering joining for the first time, we warmly invite you to reach out. Before your first session, we offer a brief chat via phone or Zoom to answer any questions and ensure you feel comfortable. This is a space to explore whether this practice feels right for you, without any pressure or commitment.

We understand that trying something new can feel like a big step. You are not alone. We are here to support you every step of the way.

Practical Information & How to Join

• No prior yoga experience is needed—this practice is for everyone.
• Sessions take place online via Zoom on:
  • Monday mornings
  • Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday evenings
• The cost for a session is €45 (excl. VAT). After payment, you will receive the Zoom link and password via email within 24 hours.
• Upon registration, you will also receive an automatic confirmation email.

For the full schedule, please [click here].

If you have any questions, feel free to email us at support@traumasensitiveyoganederland.com.

Accessibility & Financial Support

We believe that healing should be accessible to everyone. As part of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiative, we offer a limited number of free places for those who may not be able to afford the monthly fees.

If this would support your journey, please reach out to esther@traumasensitiveyoganederland.com so we can explore a solution together.

For Professionals

These sessions are not designed for yoga teachers or mental health professionals seeking training in trauma-sensitive practices. If you are a professional interested in learning more about Trauma-Sensitive Movement, we offer separate training program.

For more information, please contact Esther at esther@traumasensitiveyoganederland.com or via WhatsApp at +31 (0) 6 11 485057.

Why “Movement” Instead of “Yoga”?

We often use the term “movement” rather than “yoga” because we understand that the word “yoga” may carry certain associations. Our goal is to create a safe, inclusive space where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their previous experiences.

This is not about mastering yoga poses but about finding moments of connection, choice, and self-care.

Are You Curious? Let’s Connect.

If this feels like something you’d like to explore, we’d love to welcome you. You can join at your own pace, without pressure or expectation. Whenever you’re ready, we’re here.

Contact us at: support@traumasensitiveyoganederland.com

For Dutch speakers, please [click here] to read this in Dutch.