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Healing Through Movement and Mindfulness: A Comprehensive Guide to Trauma-Informed Yoga and Meditation for Therapists and Clients


Embark on a transformative journey of healing and self-discovery with this comprehensive guide to trauma-informed yoga and meditation, specifically tailored for therapists and clients alike.

Trauma-Informed Yoga: A Toolbox For Therapists: 47 Practices To Calm Balance, And Restore The Nervous System

Discover a collection of 47 simple yet powerful yoga practices designed to address the physical and emotional effects of trauma. This practical toolbox provides therapists with effective tools to incorporate into their sessions, empowering clients to navigate the challenges of trauma recovery.

Attachment-Based Yoga & Meditation For Trauma Recovery: Simple, Safe, And Effective Practices For Therapy

Delve into the transformative power of attachment-based yoga and meditation, a gentle and accessible approach to healing from trauma. This insightful guide equips therapists with a framework for fostering secure attachment relationships, helping clients cultivate resilience and self-compassion.

Together, these two books offer a holistic approach to trauma recovery, combining the wisdom of yoga and meditation with evidence-based therapeutic practices. Therapists and clients will find a wealth of resources to guide them on the path to healing and well-being.

Within this comprehensive resource, you will discover:

  • The profound impact of trauma on the body and mind
  • How trauma-informed yoga and meditation can promote healing and resilience
  • A collection of safe and effective practices for individuals and groups
  • Guidance for adapting practices to meet diverse needs
  • Strategies for integrating trauma-informed yoga and meditation into therapeutic settings

Whether you are a seasoned therapist or a client seeking support, this guide provides a valuable toolkit for navigating the complexities of trauma recovery. Embrace the healing potential of movement and mindfulness and reclaim your path to well-being.

56 reviews for Healing Through Movement and Mindfulness: A Comprehensive Guide to Trauma-Informed Yoga and Meditation for Therapists and Clients

  1. LJBW
    October 7, 2023
    5.0 out of 5 stars Yoga exercises
    Helps me learn mindfulness.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Ashutosh Dixit
    August 30, 2022
    Your book healed my heart!
    While I was reading your book last night, my heart became very warm and cosy, invigorated by the love filled language in the book. So much so that I s...More
    While I was reading your book last night, my heart became very warm and cosy, invigorated by the love filled language in the book. So much so that I started to feel the sensations very palpably as if it was pumping love to my entire body and outside of it. I could feel my organs utterly smiling and a very strong shield of love developing around me, raising my frequency higher to pure love. I felt like all the energetic scars I had been holding on to had started to dissolve in that moment. The sensation persisted for quite a long time and in that moment I knew that all the love and compassion with which you have written the book has been poured into my cellular memory and healing has been brought to me in a way worth experiencing in this lifetime.
    Helpful? 0 0
    L.K. Najera Gargano author of Honoring Essential Home Care Workers, Modern Teens Talk Puberty and Growing Up, and Spotlight on Diversity word search game books
    June 14, 2022
    5.0 out of 5 stars A real treasure ! Opening this treasure chest and using its jewels has changed my life.
    I bought this because of the help I thought it would provide for me as someone who is a survivor of childhood abuse, neglect and abandonment as well a...More
    I bought this because of the help I thought it would provide for me as someone who is a survivor of childhood abuse, neglect and abandonment as well as having trauma of having escaped both a kidnapping and 9/11 in Manhattan .It delivers in a big way! Well-written, well-referenced, easy to follow, and comprehensive, it is a handbook for help and recovery. I use many of the activities every day and I am not a therapist or professional using it in a professional practice, but an everyday person looking to feel better.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Natasha Ratajczak
    May 5, 2022
    Helpful teaching tool
    Good book .
    Helpful? 0 0
    James P. Aulwes
    March 9, 2022
    5.0 out of 5 stars Get this book!
    I am not a clinician but I am on healing journey and I have thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have learned so much!
    Helpful? 0 0
    Shannon Defelice
    September 16, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Must have!
    This is a wonderful tool, even if you know nothing about yoga. Very usable, concise and enjoyable to read.
    Helpful? 0 0
    zephyr
    August 25, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Easy read
    Instructional for beginners or more advanced practitioners
    Helpful? 0 0
    luann Richardson
    July 8, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful resource for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners
    A practical and invaluable "tool box" for Psychiatric NPs. As a faculty member, I have used the book to give students an additional non-pharmacologica...More
    A practical and invaluable "tool box" for Psychiatric NPs. As a faculty member, I have used the book to give students an additional non-pharmacological therapeutic option for patient/client care--and we actually do some of the exercises in class to "practice." Personally, I have used several of the examples in the book in my own clinical practice to better integrate physiological and psychological aspects of healing and holistic care. A great book to have at your side in daily practice.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Sally G
    June 17, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Phenomenal Book!!!
    Trauma-Informed Yoga is a very special gift that keeps on giving. It has helped calm and relax my entire body, mind and spirit as well as those around...More
    Trauma-Informed Yoga is a very special gift that keeps on giving. It has helped calm and relax my entire body, mind and spirit as well as those around me. I sent a copy to a family member and the results were phenomenal! Joanne’s instructions are clear, easy to follow and it feels as if she is in the room guiding every step of the way with her friendly, loving, lighthearted approach. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND gifting this book to your friends and family.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Elizabeth A Campbell
    June 4, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great for yoga teachers
    This book integrates practices with theory. Great for yoga teachers and/or students.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Gretchen C.
    June 3, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Teacher's Dream!
    LOVE! This book has oodles of easy to use practices that take but a few moments to read about and implement. I have used them with my student and our...More
    LOVE! This book has oodles of easy to use practices that take but a few moments to read about and implement. I have used them with my student and our staff this year and saw a difference within just a few "practices". I love it and highly recommend this book!
    Helpful? 0 0
    Leslie Wright
    May 26, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Accessible
    Joanne Spence does an excellent job of explaining the Polyvagal Theory to her readers, especially to readers who are unfamiliar with the concept. The...More
    Joanne Spence does an excellent job of explaining the Polyvagal Theory to her readers, especially to readers who are unfamiliar with the concept. The book is full of useful and accessible ideas to manage and shift energy—even if you are neither a yoga practitioner nor a therapist.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Triskeliongirl
    April 29, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars An outstanding book for yoga teachers and therapists, as well as mental health professionals!
    This is a wonderful new book by Joanne Spence. Detailed practices are provided that allow mental health professionals and yoga teachers to incorporat...More
    This is a wonderful new book by Joanne Spence. Detailed practices are provided that allow mental health professionals and yoga teachers to incorporate many therapeutic yoga practices into their work with clients. While it is targeted to mental health professionals, I believe that it is also an invaluable resource for yoga teachers and yoga therapists in training. The sections on the therapeutic relationship are outstanding. The work is state of the art, including the discussions of polyvagal theory and its application to yoga based therapeutic practices, as well as her treatment of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and their impact on the health and well-being of many adults in our society. Yoga teachers will find this book an invaluable resource as they work to create safe practices for their clients, regardless of their trauma history. Eileen M. Lafer, PhD, RYT500, Advanced Teacher of Therapeutic Yoga, Studio Owner: beyondwellnessaljezur.com
    Helpful? 0 0
    ko
    April 25, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Easy to read and practical
    This is an easy-to-read guide through some great practices for a therapist to bring into the therapy room, or for a person who wants to bolster their ...More
    This is an easy-to-read guide through some great practices for a therapist to bring into the therapy room, or for a person who wants to bolster their own therapy or add appropriate yoga and breathing exercises to their process of healing from trauma. The purpose is explained well, the practicality is there, and the book is organized in a helpful way.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Kristie lindblom
    April 24, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent resource for practitioners and therapists alike
    I have practiced yoga for over 25 years and have taught yoga for over a decade. I also work in trauma (social worker) and have taught yoga in trauma ...More
    I have practiced yoga for over 25 years and have taught yoga for over a decade. I also work in trauma (social worker) and have taught yoga in trauma informed settings. This book hits the nail on the head for fundamental understandings of what trauma is and how yoga can support healing. It also provides meaningful insight as to what trauma informed practices look like. I also enjoyed how accessible it was for folks who may not be in either fields of trauma or yoga. Recommend for sure!
    Helpful? 0 0
    Sandra
    April 2, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful resource for yoga therapists working in trauma treatment
    The book is a wonderful resource and toolbox as stated in the title. Joanne clearly has a lot of experience working with trauma clients and successfu...More
    The book is a wonderful resource and toolbox as stated in the title. Joanne clearly has a lot of experience working with trauma clients and successfully helped them on their healing journey. Her approach to teaching different theories is accessible and understandable. I have a second copy to share with a fellow yoga therapist and look for to sharing the techniques with my own clients.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Pauline – Maranatha Yoga UK
    March 30, 2021
    Buy 2 and give one away......a gift that keeps on giving!
    If you invest in this book is a gift that will keep on giving. It provides exactly what the title says: a toolbox for therapists. So it has resources ...More
    If you invest in this book is a gift that will keep on giving. It provides exactly what the title says: a toolbox for therapists. So it has resources I can use with my clients here in the UK. But it also offers self-care practices that I can use for myself, or share with family, friends and my wider work and faith networks. The author impressively introduces Polyvagal theory in ways that can be readily understood by anyone interested in how trauma affects the human mind and body. The author, Joanne Spence, comes across as an experienced Yoga teacher who has navigated trauma personally and tried and tested everyday practices for trauma recovery. I have already bought a copy to give away to a Yoga teacher colleague and my own copy is currently on loan to a friend. You are going to want to buy one and gift one. You are going to want to read it, re-read it and return to it over and over again.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Esther Carole Brandon
    March 25, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful resource for Teachers, Coaches, and all Humans
    Joanne Spence is a wonderful writer. The book is a comprehensive workbook with a balance of : 1. Joanne’s own story of how she developed the practic...More
    Joanne Spence is a wonderful writer. The book is a comprehensive workbook with a balance of : 1. Joanne’s own story of how she developed the practices from her need and experiences, 2.clearly written theory written in plain uncluttered language that weaves the theory and the practices together. I thought her description of the PolyVagal was the best description I have ever read, including great descriptive graphics. I highly recommend this book to pre-k-12 teachers, administrators, social workers, physical, speech, and occupational therapists, and all other staff.

    Esther Sadie Brandon M.S.Ed.
    Esther Brandon Well-Being Coaching
    Helpful? 0 0
    beriosequenza
    March 22, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great resource for yoga teachers!
    Love all the practices in this book! So many to choose from depending on what you need.
    Helpful? 0 0
    JenKH
    March 19, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars more than for therapists
    Joanne Spence is the ideal person to write this book. She has healed her own body using the yoga practices she provides in this book for therapists. S...More
    Joanne Spence is the ideal person to write this book. She has healed her own body using the yoga practices she provides in this book for therapists. She tells her own story of healing and helping others, along with her discovery of the scientific basis for why this therapy works. The second half of the book, devoted to the practices for therapists to use with their clients, is easy enough to follow even if you are not a therapist or a professional yogi. I am an amateur at yoga and not a therapist, and I am able to follow Joanne's instructions for the 47 practices. The workbook size allows you to open to a specific practice and set it down without the pages flipping shut. I actually think the information and the practices in this book are useful to anyone who wants to calm anxiety, quiet the mind, and listen to their body.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Sharon Burkett
    March 18, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful interweaving of science and yoga tradition.
    Joanne Spence provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the neuroscience behind the efficacy of yoga that also honors it’s innate wisdom. I ap...More
    Joanne Spence provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the neuroscience behind the efficacy of yoga that also honors it’s innate wisdom. I appreciate the functional layout which allows for quick access to specific practices as well as the sample charts and resources. This is definitely the best place to start when desiring to implement simple and effective yoga practices with students and clients!
    Helpful? 0 0
    Dr. Sherri
    March 17, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Practical, Powerful, and Progressive
    Hats off to Joanne Spence for Trauma Informed Yoga: A toolbox for therapists. As a NEW yoga practitioner and a clinical social worker, this text is a ...More
    Hats off to Joanne Spence for Trauma Informed Yoga: A toolbox for therapists. As a NEW yoga practitioner and a clinical social worker, this text is a great resource. It provides practical, powerful, and progressive exercises to journey with clients on their path toward hope, healing, and health. It is also a good self-care tool. My favorite chapter, well one of my favorite chapters is the Polyvagal Theory Essentials. It makes complicated information understandable to the common reader. I also appreciate that the practices are organized into calming, balancing, and energizing practices. Thank you Joanne. This will be a go-to for years to come! I can't wait for the sequel!
    Helpful? 0 0
    alaa
    March 16, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great tool and timely content.
    Will be using this information n myself and for clients. Very well written.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Kevin Flynn
    March 15, 2021
    Practical, clear, wise
    I’ve been looking forward to this book for a long time. It turns out to be even better than I’d hoped. Joanne Spence brings years of training and expe...More
    I’ve been looking forward to this book for a long time. It turns out to be even better than I’d hoped. Joanne Spence brings years of training and experience together in a book notable for clarity and comprehension. The practices are solidly grounded in in fundamentals of yoga and polyvagal theory. Diagrams, illustrations, and sample log sheets are useful and clear. No doubt, the scripts for leading people through each practice have been refined through the author’s use over time as they are models of clarity.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Kelly M.
    March 15, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars An incredible resource for clinicians, therapists, teachers, and yoga practitioners!
    Trauma- Informed Yoga is a well-rounded presentation of both theory and practice. For those that are not clinically trained, the text gives solid back...More
    Trauma- Informed Yoga is a well-rounded presentation of both theory and practice. For those that are not clinically trained, the text gives solid background about trauma, helping the reader to understand the definition of trauma as well as explaining the basic science behind how trauma affects the human nervous system. As a yoga instructor, I personally LOVE the "toolbox" of easily accessible practices that Joanne provides for her readers. I will definitely be utilizing these practices when teaching my classes, and also in my own life as I navigate life's daily stressors!
    Helpful? 0 0
    Sharon
    March 14, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Accessible and practical - Perfect tool for incorporating yoga
    This is a beautiful book! The practices are accessible and described with enough detail so they can be easily incorporated into a personal practice o...More
    This is a beautiful book! The practices are accessible and described with enough detail so they can be easily incorporated into a personal practice or a group setting. As the world faces hope in a return to somewhat normalcy, this book is perfectly timed to help us restore and calm our battered nervous systems. Thank you for this gift Joanne.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Doreen Corwith Eckert
    March 13, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars well-written, useful and clear
    Joanne's book is clear and insightful. It has inspired me to take even better care of myself so I can be present for my clients. Some of the tools I...More
    Joanne's book is clear and insightful. It has inspired me to take even better care of myself so I can be present for my clients. Some of the tools I have learned in other contexts but understand now in terms of trauma, and so many new tools will support my students and clients. Her scripts for each practice is a nice addition not often found in books. I look forward to playing with this tool box for years to come.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Molly
    March 13, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Important book for yoga teachers as well as therapists
    Trauma-informed Yoga makes the complex Polyvagal theory both accessible and actionable to a non-therapist. Its description of the how the nervous syst...More
    Trauma-informed Yoga makes the complex Polyvagal theory both accessible and actionable to a non-therapist. Its description of the how the nervous system works (bi-directionally, with 80% of the information traveling from the body to the brain) is further evidence of something we've already intuited as yoga practitioners and humans on this planet -- the body does indeed change the mind. Leading by example and antidotes from the author's own life, the book invites us to playfully explore our own relationship with our nervous system. As both a teacher and practitioner of yoga, I know that certain practices make me (and students) feel calmer, or more energized. But I didn't understand why or how, and my tools are limited. This book offers short, concrete ideas and practices to call upon depending upon the need of your nervous system, whether calming, balancing and energizing practices.

    My 200 hour YTT did not provide specialized guidance related to trauma. Most of the classes I attend, as well, seem far removed from an understanding that statistically speaking, it's likely that a few students have been touched by trauma. Her simple advice in chapter 3 is a valuable introduction to creating an environment and class appropriate for all.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Pittsburghmom
    March 12, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Practical guidelines for using yoga to help trauma-affected patients
    Those who know yoga and treat trauma-affected patients can see that yoga can bring healing at the times when words cannot reach the pain. This book is...More
    Those who know yoga and treat trauma-affected patients can see that yoga can bring healing at the times when words cannot reach the pain. This book is an invaluable resource for those who seek to incorporate yoga in the treatment of trauma affected patients.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Cindy
    March 12, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Read it and Use it!
    The book is an easy read and very practical. I have had great success using the strategies Joanne explains myself and teaching the strategies to stud...More
    The book is an easy read and very practical. I have had great success using the strategies Joanne explains myself and teaching the strategies to students and teachers at the elementary, middle and high school levels. For example, Spinal Twist is one of the balancing practices I encourage everyone to use on a daily basis. Spinal Twists is a great way to start your day. Just completed mine this morning! The body was meant to move. The book is a great resource all in one place to help yourself and others. Bought one for a gift to give to a friend too. What better gift than a resource to help someone calm, balance and restore the nervous system.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Sandy Eimers
    March 12, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Science meets yoga in a well written resource
    Required reading for all health professionals. Rooted equally in science and ancient yogic philosophies, Joanne has created a comprehensive resource f...More
    Required reading for all health professionals. Rooted equally in science and ancient yogic philosophies, Joanne has created a comprehensive resource filled with information and experience. Easy to read and offers simple tools for accessing a more peaceful body and mind. Whether you’re seeking greater balance for yourself, or working with others- this book is a goldmine!
    Helpful? 0 0
    Karen
    March 12, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Valuable Tools - Just at the right time!
    While Joanne calls this a "toolbox for therapists" it is more than that. Her book provides a yoga instructor with techniques, questionnaires and prac...More
    While Joanne calls this a "toolbox for therapists" it is more than that. Her book provides a yoga instructor with techniques, questionnaires and practices to use during any yoga class. She offers 47 practices that can even be used or adapted by anyone - the directions are clear and easy to understand. Joanne's focus is toward the therapist role yet anyone can adjust the word from "client" to "self" as a way to start calming the nervous system. Her book, however, is NOT a substitute for those who do need a skilled therapist to help them deal with complex issues of trauma, nor should it be used as a treatment/therapy if one is not trained to provide such. These practices will supplement and be of help to all of us, since we are all dealing with stress and overwhelming situations during this COVID-19 pandemic state. She provides information that will reduce and calm the nervous system for all, especially for today's pandemic conditions. Joanne helps the reader understand the science of the vagus nerve used in conjunction with yoga. Her context of trauma aids the reader to see how to begin to help others by providing the scripts, and how to demonstrate. The book is a nice large size, and makes it a handy reference. I may also get the digital version to take with me! Well done.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Brianna Martin
    March 11, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars A win for providers looking to support their clients in trauma treatment
    A thoughtful, relatable, comprehensive read on the reasons why incorporation of the body into trauma treatment is so important. The hands on experient...More
    A thoughtful, relatable, comprehensive read on the reasons why incorporation of the body into trauma treatment is so important. The hands on experientials in the second half provide clinicians without a body-based lens a brilliant window in to support their clients responsibly. Grateful to have access to an incredible resource. Namaste!
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    A.S.
    March 10, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars I'm not a therapist, but I am a yoga teacher, educator, and parent, and I love this book!
    Joanne Spence's book is so readable and practical. It's a beautiful and accessible wealth of wisdom. I read it in one sitting and will return to it ...More
    Joanne Spence's book is so readable and practical. It's a beautiful and accessible wealth of wisdom. I read it in one sitting and will return to it as a reference and support in my work as a yoga teacher, educator, and even as a parent. So glad to be able to recommend this resource to my colleagues and students.
    Helpful? 0 0
    R.P.
    March 9, 2021
    5.0 out of 5 stars Marketed to therapists, but a must read for writing teachers too!!!
    As both a writing instructor and yoga instructor, I find Trauma-Informed Yoga to be an invaluable resource for bringing mindfulness activities into th...More
    As both a writing instructor and yoga instructor, I find Trauma-Informed Yoga to be an invaluable resource for bringing mindfulness activities into the writing classroom (where students often process trauma through their writing). Spence’s approach is easy-to-read, engaging, and practical.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Tommaso Di Magia
    March 5, 2020
    5.0 out of 5 stars Not just for psychotherapists, but any healing professional seeking understanding & practices!
    As a multi-decade meditation teacher and professional coach, I’d say this book is not just for psychotherapists, but for any kind of helping professio...More
    As a multi-decade meditation teacher and professional coach, I’d say this book is not just for psychotherapists, but for any kind of helping professional in the healing arts who wants to apply the principles of yoga and meditation in your work. Yoga teachers, meditation teachers and coaches, holistic professionals of all kinds will inevitably come in contact with clients and students who have a trauma background and/or attachment issues. These might be some form of past physical abuse, sexual abuse, survivors of tragedy, war, terrorism and so forth. This book will guide in you in understanding trauma and attachment issues, and give you simple, appropriate approaches that may differ from those you use with the “general” population. Excellent!
    Helpful? 0 0
    Reader
    March 15, 2019
    5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful guide to adding movement to ptsd treatment
    This book is wonderful for therapist that are working with ptsd, the movements are awesome to assist with grounding and increasing future orientation
    Helpful? 0 0
    jo giddens
    September 20, 2018
    An amazing resource .
    I have read widely on the subject of trauma and attachment,and have not found a book quite like this before.It is brilliant and I hugely recommend it ...More
    I have read widely on the subject of trauma and attachment,and have not found a book quite like this before.It is brilliant and I hugely recommend it to clients in therapy (especially those with dissociative struggles) and to their counsellors.It contains a wealth of information with regards to practical ways of staying grounded,staying in the present and avoiding the disruption of being triggered in daily life.A really good read.Thank you Deidre
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    Lori
    June 23, 2018
    Five Stars
    very insightful
    Helpful? 0 0
    T. R.
    February 12, 2018
    5.0 out of 5 stars By far one of my favorite books that combines yoga and trauma recovery
    By far one of my favorite books that combines yoga and trauma recovery. A must read - clients and therapists alike.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Eva Malte Johansen
    January 16, 2018
    Recommended
    Just as promised
    Helpful? 0 0
    leslie chyten
    October 26, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars Compassionate and wise guide to healing from trauma
    A beautifully written book that supports the healing journey through trauma and attachment issues, using a variety of psychological and spiritual tech...More
    A beautifully written book that supports the healing journey through trauma and attachment issues, using a variety of psychological and spiritual techniques. I highly recommend this book for those we are seeking a comprehensive approach to healing
    Helpful? 0 0
    TCP
    October 23, 2017
    One of my therapeutic 'go to' books
    This book is pretty unique in that the rigour of attachment theory alongside yoga and meditation for trauma are brought together. Visually it's attra...More
    This book is pretty unique in that the rigour of attachment theory alongside yoga and meditation for trauma are brought together. Visually it's attractively laid out which makes it very easy to use. It accompanies me whenever I know I'll have some time to read. It really is one of my therapeutic 'go to' books.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Anna’s Friend
    August 8, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars Powerful, simple, effective material
    This is both an intelligent and gentle book. Though geared towards professional therapists, I am a lay person applying the concepts to myself and th...More
    This is both an intelligent and gentle book. Though geared towards professional therapists, I am a lay person applying the concepts to myself and those I love. The exercises are more powerful than might seem on the surface, and the interfacing between theory and yogic philosophy is much more piercing and to the point than, again, might appear on the surface. The exercises combined with the logic behind them give a person a bodily way to process trauma and attachment issues and grief. They provide a way to self-soothe that is simple, discreet, and effective.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Brookline Mike
    July 12, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars This book is a gift....
    I have the privilege of knowing several people personally who have benefited from working with Deirdre Fay and who continue to use the techniques desc...More
    I have the privilege of knowing several people personally who have benefited from working with Deirdre Fay and who continue to use the techniques described in this wonderful book to this day. I'm a retired psychotherapist and only wish that this material had been readily available when I was still working. Ms. Fay's presentation is well-researched, remarkably lucid, easy to follow, and contains hundred of concrete suggestions, exercises, meditations, and techniques to help relieve the suffering of countless individuals whose early attachments were insecure or otherwise inadequate. I was particularly moved by the author's work with shame, and how to experience and expand our capacity for presence without being flooded. Ms. Fay is skillful at presenting spiritual practices like yoga and meditation as healing techniques without in any way "spiritualizing" the work. She has no axe to grind, no product to sell. This book is a gift to clinicians and to their clients, offered from a brilliant mind and an open heart.
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    Amanda
    May 31, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars The most usable and compassionate book I’ve read on healing attachment wounds for those who have experienced trauma.
    Deirdre’s teachings have been fueling my healing and that of my clients for a number of years. This, her latest book, masterfully integrates Deirdre’s...More
    Deirdre’s teachings have been fueling my healing and that of my clients for a number of years. This, her latest book, masterfully integrates Deirdre’s finely tuned knowledge of the workings of attachment, the impact that trauma can have on attachment patterns and the wisdom of yoga to brilliantly light a path toward healing. The examples shared in this book clearly illustrate the way our attachment systems function to help us get what we need and ways that we can help restore healthy attachment where traumatic experience has interrupted the way we seek to have our needs met. Deirdre makes this material easily accessible and immediately usable whether I’m reading for myself or for my clients. The most usable and compassionate book I’ve read on healing attachment wounds for those who have experienced trauma.
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    Island girl
    May 9, 2017
    Great!
    What an amazing resource! Deidre says it so well, and is one of the most compassionate soul in the field.
    Helpful? 0 0
    Mia Korf
    April 25, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars BUY THIS BOOK!
    Deirdre Fay, take a well deserved bow! Anyone lucky enough to find their way to this book will be hugely rewarded. Fay's mix of extensive knowledge an...More
    Deirdre Fay, take a well deserved bow! Anyone lucky enough to find their way to this book will be hugely rewarded. Fay's mix of extensive knowledge and compassionate, detailed relaying of wisdom (and practices) is a real breath of fresh air. It gives us what we all could use more of - a way through, and yes, even hope. And not to worry - the book is suited for lay people (such as myself) as well clinicians. Thank you Deirdre Fay!
    Helpful? 0 0
    Connie F.
    April 22, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book. I had trouble putting it down
    Excellent book. I had trouble putting it down. It is written with warmth, tremendous insight, hope, intelligence, and compassion. It is a great resour...More
    Excellent book. I had trouble putting it down. It is written with warmth, tremendous insight, hope, intelligence, and compassion. It is a great resource.
    Helpful? 0 0
    kerstin palmer
    April 15, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars Suddenly favorite attachment patterns can be illuminated with grace and acceptance
    As a therapist and as a person. I am truly appreciating this book. It gives me a sense of how belonging and attachment had played out in my own life a...More
    As a therapist and as a person. I am truly appreciating this book. It gives me a sense of how belonging and attachment had played out in my own life and also - where my areas of belonging are. Where my safe, attachment, belonging-'spots' are. The book has changed the way I think of attachment. And it has changed me because of that, and how I think of therapy. Suddenly favorite attachment patterns can be illuminated with grace and acceptance, and amazingly not so scary to be with! So the book is saying: "Allthough you might not have a secure attachment which makes you feel grounded and connected; there are opportunities for attachment-creating-situations and things that will strenghten the sense of belonging". The book is rich with nuances of attachment which makes the practises really useful. Truly, it is rather amazing and in my opinion, groundbreaking.
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    Carol Rogers
    April 14, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars the book is beautifully written, offering a comprehensive approach for treatment both ...
    This book is a gift to therapists treating clients with trauma and to individuals who have experienced trauma. Deirdre Fay offers a hopeful, empathic...More
    This book is a gift to therapists treating clients with trauma and to individuals who have experienced trauma. Deirdre Fay offers a hopeful, empathic and respectful approach to trauma treatment. Based on 30 years of her clinical and personal experience and research, the book is beautifully written, offering a comprehensive approach for treatment both in the clinical session and in between sessions. She encourages the therapist to meet the client where she/he is and to help her to " turn toward what nourishes her."

    It is a book I am so grateful to own for both professional and personal reasons! Thank you Deirdre Fay!!!
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    Jane F. Gerhard
    April 12, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars and a painful sense of being alienated from authentic existence-- and those ...
    Deirdre Fay’s Attachment-Based Yoga and Meditation for Trauma Recovery (2017) is a gem of a book, full of compassion for both the people who suffer fr...More
    Deirdre Fay’s Attachment-Based Yoga and Meditation for Trauma Recovery (2017) is a gem of a book, full of compassion for both the people who suffer from the residue of trauma--anxiety, depression, searing self-criticism, and a painful sense of being alienated from authentic existence-- and those that treat them. Fay opens up the clinical moment through a blend of description and accessible theory, showing how to help clients organize their emotionally charged inner worlds and therapists to stay steady amidst the turbulence. Well-grounded in contemporary trauma and body-based therapies (Internal Family Systems, Mindful Self Compassion, Compassion-Focus Therapy, Accelerated Experimental Dynamic Psychotherapy and attachment repair or Ideal Parent Figure Protocol) Fay brings to this robust field her expertise in yoga psychology and meditation. Each chapter concludes with meditation exercises and simple body-oriented postures designed to ease immediate symptoms as well as lay the groundwork for deeper healing. Building on her first book, Becoming Safely Embodied Skill Manual (2012), this new contribution to the field explicates Fay’s unique approach to the theory and practice of entering the body to heal the heart. Attachment-Based Yoga and Meditation for Trauma Recovery finds common ground with the major developments in the field, while offering each a new vantage point that supports and amplifies existing treatment models. Clients and therapists alike will find much here to support them.

    I found this book to be a revelation, personally. As a client I found descriptions of my inner world in Fay’s accounts that gave me a new way to understand the long and fraught path of my own healing. I could see my own struggles more clearly and took comfort in Fay’s compassionate approach. As a historian of psychology and just off my own study of attachment theory, I enjoyed how Fay’s book clearly positioned itself in a longer history of trauma while marking out new avenues points of intersection with yoga philosophy and psychology, including the work of Don & Amba Stapleton (Self-Awakening Yoga) and Amy Weintraub (LifeForce Yoga). As a yoga practitioner, I delighted not only in Fay’s integration of yoga philosophy and psychology into attachment theory but for new understanding of how the practice of yoga can support emotional healing.

    Rigorous yet accessible, this is an account that truly has something for everyone.
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    Jeri S
    April 11, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars A gift and a gem!
    I am delighted to have read this book and equally delighted to encourage others to discover what a gift Deirdre's work is to the field of healing and ...More
    I am delighted to have read this book and equally delighted to encourage others to discover what a gift Deirdre's work is to the field of healing and recovery from trauma and attachment wounding. Every time I pick up the book to read a section I find myself catapulted into a world of depth and understanding that is not quite like any other that I’ve experienced. It feels very integrated and whole. When I read I recognize through Deirdre's clear and articulate writing her knowledge, her experience, her attunement to clients, her research, and her own healing. Her work is integrating more and more into my practice and I find myself both appreciative and humbled as well as privileged to be sitting with my clients in this way. The integration of yoga philosophy and experiential exercises is also a gift which brings added wholeness to working with individuals. This is a book that will not return to my bookshelf but stay close at hand for regular referencing, support and encouragement of my work with myself and others.
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    Celia Grand
    April 11, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars Such a great read for therapist
    I was lucky to get a pre-released copy and have been devouring it. Such a great read for therapist, teacher of movement, yogi's or anyone curious abou...More
    I was lucky to get a pre-released copy and have been devouring it. Such a great read for therapist, teacher of movement, yogi's or anyone curious about attachment trauma. I'm learning even new ways to work with what arises in the body for myself and my clients. It supports learning how to return to one's true nature and live from heart.

    Deirdre's writing is fluid, captivating and so clear that complicated interpersonal dynamics are explained for all levels of learning. It is an honor to be a colleague and friend of Deirdre's and I know you will feel the essence of who she is as you read her book. Deirdre not only conceptualizes healing, she lives from her heart essence. A true gift to our field, a true healer.
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    Betsy Wisch
    April 11, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars She invites each of us on a journey that will end with feeling better prepared to be with ourselves and our clients as ...
    Deirdre Fay takes the complexity of research and knowledge garnered over years by many practitioners and simplifies how trauma and attachment wounding...More
    Deirdre Fay takes the complexity of research and knowledge garnered over years by many practitioners and simplifies how trauma and attachment wounding can be healed through yogic practices and meditation. Each chapter concludes with an array of well-defined tools for the novice to advanced practitioner. Deirdre’s book is full of life force/prana pulsing from understanding to integration, and in between, she encourages us to reach, to move, to find ways to be safely in our bodies, and to look at where we are and find what is nourishing. The book tenderly addresses shame and helps make compassion accessible. It is written with clarity and exudes gratefulness for all those who have come before her, who have taught her, who have worked with her. She invites each of us on a journey that will end with feeling better prepared to be with ourselves and our clients as the tendrils of attachment wounding unwind themselves.
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    Carla Hancock
    April 11, 2017
    5.0 out of 5 stars An invaluable resource...
    Deirdre Fay’s book, Attachment-Based Yoga and Meditation for Trauma Recovery: Simple, Safe and Effective Practices for Therapy performs a great servi...More
    Deirdre Fay’s book, Attachment-Based Yoga and Meditation for Trauma Recovery: Simple, Safe and Effective Practices for Therapy performs a great service for those like me who are in awe of the power of prana, the life force, which drives us toward wholeness, or as Fay puts it, “confidence, clarity and generosity of spirit.”

    Through her rich writing style, clear explanations and specific instructions, Fay gives clinicians what she encourages us to give to our clients. As if writing to a dear friend, she first gives us her kind, gentle and non-judgmental presence. Her finely tuned attention to what we experience as clinicians as we work with our clients reflects what must have been her own open-hearted and careful self-examination along the way. She makes compassionate sense of clients’ sometimes-confusing interaction patterns with us as their therapists. She educates us about what makes a positive difference for clients, skillfully integrating attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology, trauma research and yogic philosophy. Then she gives us tools that we can use to gently guide and ease our clients’ journeys inward so that they can “comprehend how they are making meaning” and achieve a “second-to-second fine tuning of their inner states.”

    And, as if this were not already a joyful abundance, she shows us how this tool and other practices help our clients transform their own internal models of themselves in relationship to themselves and those around them. Her integration of these important fields truly offers a road map toward lasting positive transformation for our clients.

    My work is infinitely more satisfying with her guidance. I am inspired and grateful!
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