Frequently Asked Questions

1.) Trauma-Informed vs. Trauma Sensitive. What's the difference?

It depends on what you're looking for in a class. Both offer invitational language, no hands-on assists, no use of straps, a welcoming no-pressure environment and an opportunity to connect back to your body within an educated trauma-informed format. If you're looking for a "yoga-centered" class that might incorporate music with words, that focuses more on the typical benefits of movement and breathwork offered in a studio class (i.e. strength, flexibility, focus, balance, etc), a "trauma-informed" class might be for you. If you're looking for a "trauma-centered" session that might use music without words (or no music at all) that focuses more on the potential repair of traumatic stress that can be held or hard-wired into the body and nervous system, a "Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga" class (aka TCTSY), might be for you. Although there are different trauma sensitive classes offered through other programs, TCTSY has specifically been created by the Center for Trauma and Embodiment at the Justice Resource Institute.

2.) Is TCTSY for me?

Maybe yes. Maybe no. Only you can answer this question for you. TCTSY is an evidence-based intervention for trauma exposure originally created by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk (author of "The Body Keeps the Score"), David Emerson + Jenn Turner at the Trauma Center in Brookline, MA. It's theoretical underpinnings are rooted in hatha yoga, trauma theory, attachment theory, and neuroscience. The foundational building blocks of this evidenced-based approach are found through non-coercion, interoception, invitational language, choice making and shared authentic experiences. Although this offering was originated as a trauma treatment... Mayday Yoga services are not intended to treat a diagnosis, but to offer this known evidence-based practice as an everyday form of self-care.

3.) What do you charge?

Community Pricing Feel free to pick the price that works best with your budget. Individual 60 minutes = ($60 - $75) 45 minutes = ($45 - $60) 30 minutes = ($30 - $45) Group (2-20) 60 minutes = ($90 - $140) 45 minutes = ($75 - $115) 30 minutes = ($60 - $90) A "pay what you can plan" outside of Community Pricing is available at anytime for any reason. If you have a timeframe, group request, or price point not listed above...lets talk and see what works. You're welcome to use your Health Savings Account (HSA), credit card, cash, or Venmo to pay for services. Most HSA's will cover yoga for therapy, but a diagnosis or letter of medical necessity might need to be required for coverage...so please check with your provider before using as each plan is different. With that stated... you do not need a stress disorder diagnosis in order to participate.

4.) What style of yoga do you teach?

In TCTSY, there is no emphasis on "style" or "doing it right," and more focus on trying to be present with your internal environment in order to make choices based on what your body needs. No need to perform. And no "right" or "wrong" here.

5.) Where do you offer your classes?

For individual online requests... you might choose to use your preferred secure platform or mine. For group in-person or online requests... you provide the group + secure meeting location. This helps support familiarity when trying something new. All choices are respected.

6.) Do I need experience?

Heck no. All abilities, shapes, sizes, experience, and interest levels are more than welcome.

7.) What's your cancellation policy?

The first time you need to cancel less than 24 hours, there will be no late fee. I know that life can get messy and understand how unexpected events can quickly change your plans. Each time after your first occurrence, a $10 late cancellation fee will incur and will need to be paid before rescheduling.

8.) Why are you passionate about teaching to folks whose been exposed to traumatic stress or loss on the job?

Because I'm one of those folks whose been affected and still is. I don't teach or facilitate from a place of know-it-all-ism and hope to support those brave enough to listen to their bodies with the possibility of occupying more space + life within.