Why Traditional Yoga Doesn’t Always Work: A Trauma-Informed Perspective

In this episode of Yoga Beyond the Spectrum, we explore why many traditional yoga classes can feel unsafe, overstimulating, and exclusionary, especially for trauma survivors and neurodivergent individuals. Iesha, a trauma-informed yoga teacher, breaks down how mainstream yoga often prioritizes physical performance, perfection, and fast-paced flows over genuine connection and self-awareness.

We’ll discuss common challenges like loud music, bright lights, hands-on assists without consent, and the pressure to “keep up” in group classes. You’ll also learn what a trauma-informed, neurodivergent-affirming yoga practice can look and feel like and why creating safer, slower, and more inclusive spaces is essential for healing.

If you’ve ever felt out of place in a yoga studio, this episode is for you.