Statistically speaking, traumatic experiences are not rare. According to research, 70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced some type of traumatic event at least once in their lives. That’s 223.4 million people. What this means for the mindfulness community, is that in any environment where mindfulness is being practiced (inclusive of yogic spaces, private offices, schools etc.), there’s a high likelihood that someone will be struggling with traumatic stress. And while not everyone who has experienced trauma will have an adverse response to mindfulness based practices, we need to be prepared and aware of this possibility.
This 6 week masterclass is rooted in the work of Dr. David Treleaven and Resmaa Menakem, and will include an overview of recent peer reviewed research, as well as outline ways to facilitate brave spaces for students to practice mindfulness. Dr. Kelsey Evans-Amalu will also provide tangible takeaways for teachers of contemplative traditions (yoga, meditation, etc.) to apply to their own classrooms and studios.