how to live with a body

Our bodies are remarkable, designed to help us learn, play, create & relate. Sometimes, however, having a body is difficult.

Our experiences may include:

  • not being able to sleep or relax

  • feeling too sleepy and lethargic

  • needing to control our appetites

  • needing to harm or 'leave' our body

  • feeling uncomfortable, distressed or ashamed of our bodies

  • feeling physically sick, weak or in pain

  • feeling that our bodies are unpredictable or out of control

If any of the above have bothered you, it might be that a Befriending Your Body class would be helpful. 

 

what is a befriending your body class?

An opportunity to explore, with a trauma informed body worker:

  • how and why your body does what it does

  • how to create change in your body

  • how understanding your body may help you make friends with your body

Classes are light hearted and use a variety of teaching tools, including:

 

WHAT A BEFRIENDING YOUR BODY CLASS IS NOT.

  • BYB classes are not psychotherapy

  • participants will not be asked to share their trauma histories or to process their memories

  • although your BYB teacher may well be a therapist, a clinician or even a Trauma Sensitive Yoga Facilitator, they will not be offering these services

Examples of BYB classes:

  • Anatomy of Forward Bending - how to touch your toes

  • Back Pain and the Breath - how to use your breath to relieve lower back pain

  • Breath & the Nervous System - using your breath to change how you feel

  • A Place of Safety - how our systems protect us from danger

  • Chronic Stress - why stress makes us ill

  • Balance - finding comfort & stability

  • The Warrior Series - feeling powerful

  • Taking up Space - working with habits of shame

  • Headstands & Handstands - working with habits of fear 

  • Core Strength - moving from the inside, out

  • Partner Work - exploring communication, safety & compassion

BYB is not considered useful if:

  • you have needed or wanted a hospitalisation within the last 6 months, for trauma related experiences

These sessions may be challenging. We encourage participants to take any necessary steps in their self-care. No prior yoga experience needed.