8 week Vagus Nerve Yoga course
Therapeutic Yoga is rooted in the Polyvagal Theory by Dr. Stephen Porges. It weaves the traditional teachings of yoga with the understanding of the vagus nerve, which plays a central role in our emotional, mental and physical wellbeing.
Through the practice of certain yoga postures, conscious breathing techniques, mindfulness & vagal toning exercises, we work with the body towards reclaiming safety, resilience, inner power, connection (to self, others and the world) and opening to receive, grow and transform. This approach is rooted in non-violence and compassion inviting gentleness, curiosity, choice as we move towards possibility, authenticity and freedom.
This is a therapeutic approach to yoga offering space to explore the relationship with yourself through movement, conscious breathing and somatic awareness.
About the Polyvagal Theory by Stephen Porges
The Polyvagal Theory recognises the role of the vagus nerve in emotion regulation, social connection and fear response. Working with the vagus nerve (which extends from the brainstem down into our stomach and intestines, passing through our heart and lungs, and connecting our throat and facial muscles) helps to cultivate inner safety, connection, presence and can support healing from trauma, anxiety, PTSD and improve our overall health and wellbeing.
Read more about the nervous system in my blog here.
What to expect in a therapeutic yoga session:
● Theme & Intention : Each session includes a theme, Psycho Education on the nervous system, somatic psychology, and yogic philosophy and an intention to explore it on the yoga mat.
● Presence : Cultivate presence and connection by curiously exploring physical sensations, emotions and thoughts.
● Choice & Safety : A sense of inner safety is the foundation for coming back home to yourself, healing and transformation. We cultivate safety in the nervous system through choice. You are invited to move through the practice with freedom to opt-in or opt-out attuning to your own needs and honouring them.
● Embodiment : Explore the mind-body connection through conscious breathing, physical postures, vagal toning exercises to reconnect with the body's inherent wisdom.
● Community Connection : Feel supported and held by the community with space for (optional) sharing and learning together.
Who is this course for?
This practice is open to all. It can be especially beneficial for you if you:
● Experience symptoms of anxiety, trauma, PTSD, dissociation or dysregulation.
● Experience chronic stress/ pain/fatigue or overwhelm
● Are looking to develop more compassion and kindness towards yourself
● Seek a therapeutic approach that focuses on mind-body connection
● Want to learn more about your body’s wisdom and establish connection with deeper parts of yourself
The practices offered are mat-based with chair modifications if needed.
