Scoping Review of Trauma-Informed Yoga (TIY) for Survivors of Sexual, Domestic, and Interpersonal Violence and Development of the WELLNESS Mnemonic to Characterize TIY Outcomes

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

6-4-2025

Journal

Journal of integrative and complementary medicine

DOI

10.1089/jicm.2023.0582

Keywords

posttraumatic stress disorder; trauma; yoga

Abstract

This scoping review provides an overview of the current evidence base for trauma-informed yoga (TIY) for survivors of sexual, domestic, and interpersonal violence to document the spectrum of study designs, population and intervention characteristics, and associated results of TIY for trauma survivors. Authors utilized the scoping review methodology outlined by Arksey and O'Malley (2005). Pubmed and Scopus were searched initially conducted on August 16, 2022, and updated to include any new studies on March 25, 2025. Data extracted included study design, population characteristics, intervention specifics, and results. Authors devexbvgloped an innovative mnemonic to inform discussion of results: WELLNESS: Well-being; Empathy; Longevity (durability of therapeutic effect); Lessen trauma symptoms; Nurturing (self-compassion), Ease stress, Security, and Self-awareness). The combined initial and updated literature searches yielded 4167 studies. Title and abstract screening netted 35 studies meeting review criteria. Full-text review netted 18 studies meeting criteria. Sexual, interpersonal, and domestic violence survivors who participated in TIY reported enhancement of physical and psychological function and well-being. Effects included increased sense of safety, self-compassion, personal growth, and self-regulation. Studies reported reduced depression, anxiety, negative thoughts, stress and trauma symptoms, and increased self-esteem; positive coping; improved relationships, better sleep and enhanced mindfulness; and sense of peace. TIY is beneficial to survivors of sexual, domestic, and interpersonal violence by promoting peaceful embodiment without retraumatization and enhancing affect regulation to decrease reactivity and agitation. The constellation of effects can improve the sequelae of trauma, and survivors may benefit from long-term TIY programming to ensure more robust improvement.

Department

Clinical Research and Leadership

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