person starting a yoga class
 

Trauma-Informed Yoga in Columbia, MD.

Yoga is about the union of your mind and body. Trauma disrupts this union.

Alongside therapy, yoga can help you reconnect and heal.

Please join our email list to be notified about our upcoming classes.

“What is trauma-informed yoga?”

Trauma-informed yoga aims to create a physical space that offers you safety, containment, and an invitation to explore movement or stillness in ways that support autonomy and awareness. 

During our time together, I will offer you invitations, choices, shared experiences, and an environment that supports your needs. 

 
man doing a yoga pose

Yoga may be a wonderful addition to your therapy if:

  • You want to feel more present in your everyday life 

  • You experience tension in your body

  • You would like to explore choice over your body through mindful movement 

  • Yoga studios feel overwhelming, and you'd like to explore movement in an individual or small group setting 

  • You have a desire to deepen your understanding of yoga and its benefits 

  • You would like to learn more about how mindfulness can support your wellbeing

About Sharnise

 

I was inspired through my own yoga and wellness journey to complete yoga teacher training in 2018. I have since completed continued training and education in teaching yoga specifically for survivors of trauma. I have completed training via The Prison Yoga Project and completed the 300-hour facilitator certification program for Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY). 

Check out my contribution to Zola Counseling's blog on Trauma-Informed Yoga.

Sharnise Hendrick registered yoga teacher

“I believe that yoga reminds us of our innate goodness and autonomy. Cultivating a yoga practice can support the restoration of connectedness to one's body and alleviate anxiety, fear, and dis-ease in our lives.”

-Sharnise hendrick

 

“What benefits do people get from yoga?”

  • Increased awareness of sensations 

  • Increased tolerance of felt experiences

  • New language to describe what is happening within their bodies 

  • Decreased tension and physical pain 

  • Enhanced connectedness to unrestricted breathing 

  • Increased sense of control and identification of choices 

  • Reduction in anxiety symptoms

“Is yoga a good fit for me?”

Each person’s experience within their bodies and thus, within their yoga practice is different. Yoga can be a wonderful adjunct to therapy as it can support increased tolerance for noticing the body. Yoga is not always the ideal initial intervention, and it may be best to spend some time in therapy before beginning yoga.

Note: Please consult with your doctor before engaging in yoga if you have any preexisting health concerns.

What to Expect

When private lessons are offered, we will work together to decide on the frequency and duration of private lessons. Together we will explore movements that support you being in your body.

When offered, private lessons will be one (1) hour long. Scheduled group yoga classes may be longer depending upon the class type.

You will be provided information on the principles of trauma-informed yoga and we will collaborate with you to create a practice that suits your current needs and goals. 

person after yoga class

Want to learn more about our current yoga offers?