Veterans Yoga Project

Yoga does not cure PTSD. Yoga practices are, however, a valuable complement to professional treatment for PTSD. PTSD is a complex psychological disorder that can be effectively treated with professional evidence-based psychotherapy. Unfortunately, even evidence-based psychotherapies do not work for many Veterans, and leave many other Veterans with residual symptoms. A mindful, embodied yoga practice can help provide relief from some of the symptoms of PTSD, and can help provide the supportive skills that are needed in other psychotherapeutic modalities. Yoga will not eliminate all of a Veteran’s PTSD symptoms, but it can support and aid in a Veteran’s healing journey.

Yoga has worked so well with many Veterans who are coping with PTSD and other trauma-related psychological difficulties because yoga is a practice that brings us back into our bodies. It helps us sleep more soundly. It helps us transform anger. It helps us rediscover curiosity and fun. It gives us the opportunity to live at our own pace and find our own truth. Veterans with PTSD use yoga as a method to regain control over a nervous system that is always “on edge”, and to regain control over self-destructive behaviors and habits.  Since trauma lies in the body, mind, and spirit, a holistic, integrated treatment approach that includes mindful yoga practices can be used to re-connect with ourselves as we are in the present moment, letting us feel comfortable in our own skin.

The healing effects of ancient yoga practices have begun to receive validation from modern science. Researchers have started to discover the pathways by which the physical postures and movements, meditation, and breathing practices support healing. In fact, many of the techniques used in yoga are strikingly similar to strategies used by clinical psychologists in the treatment of anxiety disorders including PTSD. (Veterans Yoga Project is working on a Virtual Library of resources-check back soon. In the meantime, check out our references page).