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Jessica Fleming

Yoga, breathwork and meditation can be wonderful practices for people who are experiencing depression, anxiety and for those who are healing from past trauma.

Yoga can support individuals on a holistic level, this course will teach you how to use yoga, breathwork and meditation to create a felt sense of safety in the body and the mind.

When people are experiencing mental health conditions, their nervous system is often dysregulated and their brain is not able to function optimally, when yoga is done in a slow, mindful and rhythmic way, it can calm and settle the nervous system and allow the brain to operate well.

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Yoga, breathwork and meditation can be wonderful practices for people who are experiencing depression, anxiety and for those who are healing from past trauma.

Yoga can support individuals on a holistic level, this course will teach you how to use yoga, breathwork and meditation to create a felt sense of safety in the body and the mind.

When people are experiencing mental health conditions, their nervous system is often dysregulated and their brain is not able to function optimally, when yoga is done in a slow, mindful and rhythmic way, it can calm and settle the nervous system and allow the brain to operate well.

This course will give you an overview of the nervous system, the brain and brainwaves and the effect that mental health conditions can have on the systems of the body and mind.

You will gain an understanding of mental health from both and Eastern and a Western perspective, we will discuss the ancient yogic view of mental health, known as the Gunas.

You will learn about what your students may be feeling during your yoga classes if they are experiencing depression or anxiety and how you as a yoga teacher can best support them.

You will learn how to run a trauma sensitive or trauma informed yoga class, you will learn how to avoid common trauma triggers when teaching yoga classes.

You are supplied with guided, sample yoga classes that have been specifically designed for people experiencing mental health conditions.

We will go over which breathwork practices are best for people who are experiencing mental health conditions, you are supplied with guided breathwork practices and printable PDF scripts for each practice so that you can guide your students through the practices easily.

When teaching meditation to students who are experiencing mental health conditions, this needs to be approached with some caution, you will learn why, we as teachers, need to approach meditation for people who are experiencing mental health conditions with some caution and what meditations are best to do when experiencing depression, anxiety and when healing from past traumas.

You will also receive a sample class plan and class tips.

This course comes with a 43 page printable workbook with all of the information from the course including print outs to use in your yoga classes.

This course is best suited to those who are already yoga teachers but is also suitable for any person who would like to learn holistic practices, such as mindful movement, breathwork and meditations, that can support individuals who are experiencing mental health conditions.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn how to guide yoga classes specifically for people experiencing depression and anxiety
  • Learn how to offer trauma sensitive yoga classes
  • Learn which breathwork and meditation practices are the most suited to people experiencing mental health conditions
  • Learn how mental health condition affect the nervous system and the brain and how yoga can support the body and mind to heal
  • Learn about the ancient yogic view of mental health

Syllabus

Introduction
Resources
Mental Health Anatomy And Physiology
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Focuses on using yoga, breathwork, and meditation to promote mental health and healing
Taught by Jessica Fleming, who has expertise in yoga for mental health
Provides guided yoga classes designed specifically for individuals experiencing mental health conditions
Helps students understand how mental health conditions affect the body and mind, and how yoga can support healing
Offers detailed information on teaching mindfulness practices and meditation to students experiencing mental health conditions
May be relevant to those interested in becoming yoga teachers or enhancing their knowledge of yoga for mental health

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive yoga for mental health training

According to students, this course offers a comprehensive and highly practical approach to teaching yoga for mental health. Learners frequently highlight its invaluable resources like sample classes, printable scripts, and a detailed workbook. The course provides a deep understanding of how yoga impacts the nervous system and brain, blending Eastern and Western perspectives effectively. Students particularly praise the clear guidance on breathwork and meditation techniques and the crucial focus on trauma-sensitive teaching, helping them create safer spaces. While generally well-structured and easy to follow, some experienced professionals desired more advanced discussions, and a few beginners found some terminology initially overwhelming.
Suitable for existing yoga teachers but may require basic yoga knowledge for beginners.
"While it says it's suitable for non-teachers, I think a basic understanding of yoga anatomy would be helpful before diving in."
"As a seasoned mental health professional, I was hoping for a deeper dive into certain topics. It's a great intro, but not as advanced as I'd hoped."
"The course is definitely geared towards teaching, which is what I needed as a yoga instructor."
"I'm not a yoga teacher, but I wanted to learn more for my own well-being and it delivered beyond my expectations."
The instructor is highly praised for clarity and compassionate guidance.
"Instructor explanations are empathetic and clear, making complex topics accessible and engaging."
"The instructor is fantastic – very knowledgeable and compassionate in her delivery of the material."
"I especially valued the clear distinctions between different breathwork techniques and their specific benefits for mental well-being."
Integrates Eastern and Western views with practical yoga applications.
"I found the modules on the nervous system and brainwaves particularly insightful... It really deepened my understanding."
"I appreciated the blend of Western and Eastern perspectives on mental health. The section on avoiding trauma triggers was extremely helpful."
"What an amazing course! It provided me with a comprehensive understanding of how yoga affects mental health."
"The emphasis on safety and regulation for the nervous system is a game-changer for me and my practice."
Provides highly actionable strategies and invaluable teaching materials.
"The sample classes and printable scripts are invaluable resources for teaching trauma-informed yoga. Highly recommend..."
"Absolutely essential for any yoga teacher. The guidance on breathwork and meditations for anxiety and depression is clear and practical."
"This course provided me with practical, actionable strategies to incorporate trauma-informed practices into my existing yoga classes."
"The workbook is a fantastic companion, making it easy to revisit key concepts and apply lessons effectively."
Some suggestions for additional interaction, demonstrations, or pacing adjustments.
"I would have liked a bit more interaction or case studies to deepen the practical application."
"While I appreciated the sample classes, I found myself wanting more in-depth practical demonstrations, perhaps with varied scenarios."
"I felt the pacing was a bit fast in some modules, but I could always rewatch to catch up."
"Some technical aspects of the video quality could be improved, but the content itself is excellent."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Yoga Teacher Training For Trauma, Depression and Anxiety with these activities:
Review basic anatomy
Understanding basic anatomy helps students understand how yoga poses affect the body and how to practice safely.
Browse courses on Anatomy
Show steps
  • Review your notes from anatomy class or read a book or article on basic anatomy.
  • Focus on the major muscle groups and bones.
  • Use diagrams or images to help you visualize.
Review meditation techniques
Reviewing meditation techniques helps students refresh their knowledge and understanding of the different techniques used in yoga.
Browse courses on Meditation
Show steps
  • Review your notes from a meditation class or read a book or article on meditation techniques.
  • Practice different meditation techniques.
  • Focus on your breath and body sensations.
Practice yoga poses
Regularly practicing yoga poses helps students understand the foundations of yoga and build a strong foundation for their practice.
Browse courses on Yoga
Show steps
  • Find a quiet place to practice.
  • Start with simple poses and gradually progress to more challenging ones.
  • Hold each pose for at least 5 breaths.
  • Focus on your breath and body sensations.
One other activity
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all four activities
Watch videos on yoga philosophy
Understanding yoga philosophy provides students with a deeper understanding of the purpose and benefits of yoga.
Browse courses on Yoga Philosophy
Show steps
  • Find a reputable source for yoga videos.
  • Watch videos on different aspects of yoga philosophy.
  • Take notes or write down your thoughts.

Career center

Learners who complete Yoga Teacher Training For Trauma, Depression and Anxiety will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Yoga Teacher Training For Trauma, Depression and Anxiety.
This ancient text is the foundation of yoga philosophy. It provides a roadmap for achieving yoga's ultimate goal: samadhi.
This comprehensive textbook provides an in-depth overview of the field of neuroscience, covering topics such as cellular and molecular neuroscience, systems neuroscience, and cognitive neuroscience. It is an essential resource for students and researchers alike.
Provides a broad and accessible introduction to the science and history of breathing, explaining its profound impact on health and well-being. It is an excellent starting point for anyone new to the topic, offering a strong foundation for understanding the importance of conscious breathing practices. This book is highly popular and well-regarded in contemporary discussions around breathwork.
This foundational and comprehensive textbook widely considered the authoritative reference in the field of neuroscience. It is essential for gaining a deep and broad understanding of the nervous system, covering molecular, cellular, systems, and cognitive neuroscience. It is commonly used as a graduate-level textbook and a valuable reference for professionals.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the United States. While not a book to be read cover-to-cover, it is an essential reference tool for understanding the diagnostic criteria and classifications of anxiety disorders. This crucial resource for advanced students and professionals in the field.
Is widely considered a classic and an excellent starting point for anyone interested in mindfulness meditation. It provides clear, straightforward instructions and demystifies the practice, making it accessible regardless of religious background. It's particularly useful for beginners seeking a practical guide to establishing a meditation routine and understanding common challenges. This book is highly recommended for foundational knowledge.
Powerful and moving account of depression by a Pulitzer Prize-winning author. Solomon draws on his own experiences with depression, as well as the experiences of others, to provide a deeply insightful look at this condition.
A comprehensive and well-respected textbook covering a broad range of neuroscience topics from cellular to cognitive levels. It is suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate students and is often used as a primary text in neuroscience programs. The book is known for its balanced approach and depth of coverage.
This comprehensive guide offers a detailed, stage-by-stage approach to meditation practice, integrating traditional Buddhist teachings with modern scientific understanding. It's highly practical and provides clear instructions for deepening one's practice. is particularly useful for those seeking a structured path to advanced meditation and can serve as a textbook for dedicated practitioners.
This highly regarded workbook that teaches core principles of CBT through practical exercises and worksheets. It is widely used by therapists and individuals alike to identify and modify problematic thinking patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety and depression. Its structured approach is excellent for solidifying understanding through active engagement.
A gentle and poetic introduction to mindfulness from a renowned Zen master. uses simple anecdotes and exercises to illustrate how to cultivate mindfulness in everyday activities. It's a foundational text for understanding the essence of mindfulness and is particularly well-suited for beginners and those seeking a more contemplative approach.
A classic text in the yoga tradition, this book provides in-depth instruction on Pranayama, the yogic science of breath control. It is essential reading for anyone interested in the philosophical and technical roots of breathwork in yoga. This foundational text for understanding traditional breath practices.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of neurophysiology, covering topics such as the electrical properties of neurons, the synaptic transmission of information, and the neural basis of behavior. It is an excellent resource for students interested in learning more about the function of the brain.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the human brain, covering topics such as the anatomy, physiology, and function of the brain. It is an excellent resource for students and researchers interested in learning more about the brain.
Collection of yoga teachings from Swami Kripalu. It offers a deep and insightful exploration of yoga's spiritual and philosophical aspects.
Offers a wide range of breathwork techniques, drawing from various traditions and applications. It serves as a practical guide for incorporating breathwork into daily life for personal development and improved performance in different areas. It is considered one of the best overall intros to the world of breathwork.
This textbook offers a thorough and comprehensive presentation of neuroscience, ranging from molecular to cognitive aspects. It is geared towards graduate students and researchers, providing in-depth coverage of fundamental concepts and current research. It valuable reference for those seeking a detailed understanding.
This textbook is designed for advanced undergraduate and graduate students and mental health professionals. It provides a comprehensive overview of anxiety disorders, including theoretical models, empirical research, and evidence-based treatment approaches. It valuable resource for those seeking a deeper academic understanding of anxiety from a psychological perspective.
A follow-up to The Oxygen Advantage, this book further explores the importance of functional breathing for overall health and well-being, offering practical exercises and strategies for improving breathing habits.
Written by a pioneer in secular mindfulness, this book offers practical insights and short, accessible chapters on integrating mindfulness into daily life. It emphasizes the importance of presence in every moment. is valuable for gaining a broad understanding and applying mindfulness beyond formal meditation practice. It's suitable for all levels, including those in high school and undergraduate programs.
Classic memoir of depression by one of the most acclaimed American writers of the 20th century. Styron's account of his own battle with depression is both harrowing and inspiring, and it offers a unique glimpse into the mind of a brilliant writer who struggled with this condition.
Explores the neuroscience behind anxiety, explaining the different brain pathways involved in fear and worry. It translates complex scientific concepts into understandable language and offers practical strategies based on this understanding to help manage anxiety. It's particularly useful for those interested in the biological basis of anxiety.
Offers a structured 28-day program for establishing a meditation practice, focusing on mindfulness and loving-kindness. It provides daily guidance and practical tips for beginners. This book is excellent for those looking for a step-by-step program to build a consistent meditation habit.
As the title suggests, this book provides practical guidance and a variety of techniques for using breathwork to address common modern ailments like stress and anxiety. It useful resource for those looking for actionable breath practices.
Written by a psychologist and a neuroscientist, this book explores the latest scientific research on the effects of meditation on the brain and body. It provides an evidence-based perspective on the transformative potential of long-term practice. is excellent for those interested in the scientific underpinnings of meditation and its impact.
A follow-up to 'Feeling Good,' this book introduces advanced techniques based on Team Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-CBT) for overcoming depression and anxiety. It offers new tools and perspectives for those who have worked with basic CBT principles and are looking to deepen their practice and understanding.
This widely popular book explores the concept of living in the present moment as a path to spiritual enlightenment. While not solely focused on traditional meditation techniques, it provides a strong philosophical basis for understanding the mind and the importance of presence, which is central to meditation. It's accessible to a broad audience and can complement meditation practice.
An excellent resource for learning neuroanatomy by applying concepts to real-world clinical cases. is highly recommended for medical students and those in health professions, providing a practical understanding of the structure and function of the nervous system in the context of neurological disorders.
Is geared towards healthcare professionals and yoga practitioners, offering a science-based approach to therapeutic breathwork. It is valuable for those looking to integrate breathwork into clinical or therapeutic settings.
Provides simple yet effective breathing techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and other emotional imbalances. It is well-suited for individuals seeking practical tools for self-regulation and improved mental health through breathwork.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the biological basis of cognitive functions. It is widely used in undergraduate and graduate courses on cognitive neuroscience, bridging the gap between brain science and psychology. It is valuable for understanding how the nervous system gives rise to thought, perception, memory, and language.
While primarily focused on trauma, this book is essential for understanding the profound impact of trauma on the brain and body, which often manifests as anxiety and other related conditions. It provides a deep dive into the neuroscience and physiology of stress and trauma, offering valuable context for understanding the根源 of anxiety.
This accessible guide from a respected Buddhist teacher offers practical advice and encouragement for starting and maintaining a meditation practice. It addresses common challenges and emphasizes self-compassion. It's a supportive resource for beginners and those seeking a warm, encouraging approach.
Authored by the co-founder of the popular Headspace app, this book provides a modern and approachable guide to meditation and mindfulness. It offers practical techniques and relatable anecdotes, making it easy for beginners to get started. good companion to digital meditation resources.
Delves into the nature of consciousness and how to live in the present moment by observing thoughts and emotions without getting entangled. While not a step-by-step meditation guide, it offers profound insights that can deepen one's understanding of the meditative process and lead to greater inner freedom.
Explores the use of breathwork in trauma release and emotional healing, introducing the BioDynamic Breathwork and Trauma Release System. It is relevant for those interested in the therapeutic applications of breathwork for trauma.
This investigative journalism book challenges the conventional understanding of depression and anxiety, arguing that social and environmental factors play a significant role. It explores nine different potential causes and proposes alternative solutions beyond traditional pharmacological approaches. is excellent for gaining a broader, more contemporary perspective on the societal aspects of anxiety.
Details the Wim Hof Method, which combines breathing exercises, cold exposure, and mindset. It is highly relevant for those interested in the physical and mental resilience aspects of breathwork and its potential to influence the immune system.
Focuses on the practice of Metta, or loving-kindness meditation, a key component of many Buddhist traditions. It offers guidance on cultivating compassion and friendliness towards oneself and others. This book is valuable for expanding one's meditation practice beyond mindfulness and developing emotional well-being.

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