One challenge of providing mental health services in prison is the high rates of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder coupled with limited mental health resources. This presentation will introduce participants to a group trauma-focused yoga protocol used in the Washington State Department of Corrections. The presenter will discuss the research, explain polyvagal theory, describe the group process and exercises, and present quantitative data measuring group members’ impressions of their PTSD symptoms before and after the 12-week group.

Educational Objectives

• Define polyvagal theory
• Discuss how polyvagal theory supports the use of yoga and meditation to treat trauma symptoms
• Describe the trauma-focused yoga group protocol

Level: Intermediate