Cottingham, B. (2024). Transcendence from below: A phenomenological inquiry into the impact of Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga on individuals’ lived experience of embodiment [Unpublished Master’s thesis]. Alef Trust & Liverpool John Moores University.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of Trauma Centre Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) on individuals’ lived experience of embodiment. Using a transcendental phenomenological research design, in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five individuals who experienced disembodiment in the aftermath of trauma and a greater or more positive experience of embodiment through practicing TCTSY. Analysis of the data led to the emergence of five key themes: 1) Inhabiting the Body whereby participants experienced a newfound sense of safety in the body and a greater capacity to feel their emotions and sensations; 2) Empowered Sense of Self, which included a greater sense of self-knowing, self-compassion, and self-agency; 3) Authentic Relating, referring to participants’ improved ability to express themselves and relate to others more authentically; and 4) Expanded Capacity for Connection, highlighting that, as participants connection to themselves deepened through TCTSY, so did their capacity for interpersonal and spiritual connection. The fifth theme, Choice-Making, refers to TCTSY’s emphasis on making movement choices based on interoception (one’s internal sense of their body), and this seemed to be the catalyst for participants’ newfound experience of embodiment. In this light, TCTSY may open up new possibilities for working with trauma by offering a path, beyond symptom reduction, toward to depth of sensuality, vitality, and spiritual aliveness that comes with being embodied.
