How are issues of abuse treated in a yogic/meditative style?
If sex, verbal, or emotional abuse of the past is even now causing emotional pain and discomfort, what is the general, basic method used to help heal these people.
ALL opinions welcomed.
Classical Yoga is concerned with reducing and eliminating suffering. The YogaSutras teach us that by becoming aware of our true nature, or True Self, the causes of suffering can be overcome. Which specific practices are most helpful for a specific person will vary, depending upon their emotional, mental, and physical state, whether they were in need of nurturing or growth for example.
All cases of abuse involve a loss of trust in others and one’s self. Recovery from these events can be supported by a thoughtful and sensitive yoga practice, including asana, pranayama, mental reflection and meditation. In some cases, the practice of yoga will bring up material which the instructor is not professionally equipped to help the client process, and which falls outside their scope of practice. Understanding the teacher/client relationship and honoring those boundaries, as well as knowing one’s own capabilities, and having a referral list of qualified providers for further physical/mental/emotional or spiritual support are important to maintain a high ethical standard of providing the best care possible for the client.
There was a post in another thread about group classes for children who had been abused. If you do a search of this site under “abuse” you may find some additional comments on this topic.
In general, I would say that asana, pranayama and meditative techniques which focus on providing a sense of safety and comfort are foundational. These soothing practices should bring about a “relaxation response” which will help for stress reduction and to reduce fear. Once safety and comfort are in place, exploration of poses which open the body can be explored, along with the physical and subtle sensations with come with this movement.
Other comments or reflections are welcome…others with experience working with abuse survivors are encouraged to share.
Namaste,
Chandra