SAAM 2025 WEEK 3: MEETING SURVIVORS WHERE THEY ARE — TRAUMA-INFORMED YOGA ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES

Silvano Cazares, LMHC, Director of Student Support & Wellness at CUNY Law School and CUNY Law School Students

What challenges do students often face when coping with trauma, and how does Exhale to Inhale’s trauma-informed yoga help address those needs?

Law students often struggle with anxiety, hypervigilance, lack of emotional expression and disconnection due to trauma, compounded by the stress of legal education. Exhale to Inhale’s trauma-informed yoga offers a gentle, choice-based practice that helps students reconnect with their bodies and build emotional regulation.

In your experience, what impact has trauma-informed yoga had on the emotional well-being and resilience of students on your campus?

Students report feeling more grounded,  improved emotional well-being, less anxious, and more in control after participating in trauma-informed yoga. It offers a rare space for self-care and reflection, fostering resilience in both personal and academic life.

How does a safe and supportive environment help students feel comfortable engaging in healing practices like trauma-informed yoga?

A safe, non-judgmental environment helps students feel secure enough to engage in healing practices without fear of retraumatization. This sense of safety allows them to be present, explore their needs, and begin the healing process on their own terms. It creates a sense of community and you realize you aren't alone. 

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Welcome to Week 3 of our 2025 Sexual Assault Awareness Month Series: Move, Heal, Empower. Join us in bringing healing through trauma-informed yoga to survivors everywhere—donate today.