Healing Through Yoga: Supporting Recovery for Survivors

The Healing Through Yoga series originally ran April 7 - May 12 and has now ended. More classes will be added soon. If you are interested in attending future classes please either email Kerri at info@boalsburgyogastudio.com or RSVP via the Sign Up button.

These classes offer an uplifting and supportive space for survivors of sexual and domestic violence to explore yoga and somatic practices with an experienced therapeutic yoga practitioner and teacher. They are offered as a meaningful complement to healing, and are not a substitute for therapy. Participants are encouraged to have or seek support from a qualified mental health professional as needed.

Yoga gives us a framework of principles, philosophy and techniques that support the healing and reintegration of our body, mind and spirit. Reflecting the ancient wisdom of various healing traditions, modern science now has a strong foundation of research that recognizes and supports the benefits of mind-body practices for our bodies, nervous systems and sense of well-being. Over time, these practices support us in reconnecting with ourselves, creating space for greater self-trust and self-compassion. As this capacity grows, we are better able to relate to our experiences in ways that feel more manageable and less overwhelming, easing the sense of disconnection from self and others that is so often a part of trauma.

We will explore various types of mindful movement and breath, as well as the option to explore drawing and/or reflective writing before and after practice. Rooted in principles of trauma-informed care, classes emphasize comfort, choice, autonomy and empowerment, as well as acknowledgement of social and cultural conditions and systems that inherently reinforce trauma. There is no expectation to share personal experiences. This is a space for exploration and self-connection at your own pace to gradually expand capacity for presence, connection, compassion and joy.

This series is guided by me, Kerri Zelman, massage therapist and experienced yoga teacher with over 15 years of teaching experience and advanced training in therapeutic yoga and somatic healing. Since 2020, I have focused my studies on trauma-informed practice, including a 300-hour Myofascial Yoga Teacher Training with Christine Wushke, whose work integrates fascia science, yoga philosophy, and nervous system awareness in a way that is inherently trauma-informed.

I am also a Certified Trauma Support Specialist through the Arizona Trauma Institute, and have and continue to study extensively with Dr. Arielle Schwartz, including completion of a 30-hour Yoga for Trauma Recovery training. My teaching is further informed by the Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) model based on the work of David Emerson and Jenn Turner, as well as ongoing study with Zabie Yamasaki, a leader in trauma-informed yoga for survivors and author of Transcending Trauma with Yoga.

I offer these classes not as an expert but to share what has helped me. My approach is not only shaped by training, but also my own lived experience and healing journey. After many years of personal practice, discovering trauma-informed care became a turning point, offering language and insight into why these practices can be so deeply supportive. This perspective continues to shape my work and my life, informing my experience as a woman and mother, and fueling my commitment to understanding and healing my own lineage.

If you have any questions feel free to contact Kerri: info@boalsburgyogastudio.com