Firefly Yoga International Inc

Programs: A) firefly program in trauma-informed yoga: in 2017, firefly yoga international (firefly) offered trauma-informed yoga programs in california, massachusetts and minnesota. The firefly program aims to improve trauma survivors (clients) access to, and use, of, yoga and conscious breathing exercises that are known to support recovery from trauma symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. In 2017, a total of 80 clients received trauma-informed yoga through firefly. Clients served included 1) female and male veterans 2) adult survivors of sexual and/or domestic violence 3) firefighters, paramedics and first responders who experience vicarious (secondary) trauma 4) at-risk teen girls with a history of trauma and 5) the general public via community-based, drop-in trauma-informed yoga classes. The firefly program is typically 12 weeks in length, with one 1 hour trauma-informed yoga class offered per week at local agencies where clients already receive various trauma-related services, such as domestic violence centers and veterans agencies, or in a drop-in format at community studios. Firefly additionally offered several one-time events in 2017, including workshops on trauma-informed yoga and self-regulation skills, to our target populations. B) firefly training in trauma-informed yoga: in 2017, firefly implemented five yoga teacher trainings in trauma-informed yoga, and one training for social workers, therapists, and other providers on trauma-informed yoga and somatic (body-based) practices. Yoga teacher trainings were offered in boston, ma; grass valley, ca; south lake tahoe, ca; napa, ca; and willmar, mn. The training for providers was offered in reno, nv. A total of 54 yoga teachers and 11 providers completed the firefly training in 2017. The firefly training for yoga teachers consists of a 30-hour curriculum on trauma-informed yoga principles and practice. Over three days, the training combines lecture, expert presentations, group activities and discussion, practice teaching and yoga and breath work practice. Yoga teachers who previously completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training, and who held their registered yoga teacher (ryt) credential from the yoga alliance, are eligible to enroll in the firefly training. The firefly training for providers was a new initiative in 2017 and offered 14. 5 hours of continuing education to social workers registered in nevada. Over two days, the training included lecture, presentations, group activities and discussion, practice facilitating trauma-informed yoga and somatic exercises, and self-care activities. Social workers, therapists, and other professionals working with trauma survivors are eligible to enroll in the firefly training for providers.