An Integrated Approach to Mitigating ACEs Through Trauma-Informed Yoga

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 17
  In Roundtable Session: Mindfulness Mechanisms and Exploring Becoming

Abstract

The aim of this study was to improve the behavioral and academic outcomes for adolescents in rural Virginia and Montana through of trauma-informed yoga. Given the prevalence of adolescent suicide, substance abuse, and mental health issues in both regions, this project was intended to help mitigate factors that may contribute to poor behavioral health and academic achievement in students (Souers & Hall, 2016). This study examined the relationship between a trauma-informed approach incorporating yoga/mindfulness and academic, social, and emotional behaviors among middle and high school students in rural academic settings. While the intervention approaches varied somewhat in each setting, student and teacher pre and post-survey data indicated that there were academic, social, and emotional benefits following each intervention.

Authors

• Lauren Davis, Montana State University

• Rebecca Buchanan, Emory & Henry College