"In times of trauma, like a sexual assault, you don’t think clearly and you don’t file memories correctly all the time. There are things I can't remember -- and things I'll never forget
I remember what I was wearing -- a baggy sweatshirt, and jeans. It was a weeknight, and we were going to watch a movie. As I relaxed with my feet up on my friend's couch, he brought me a tall, fizzy, orange-flavored drink. Then it’s all a blank -- until I woke up later on his bed. He was on top of me. I registered what was happening, but paralyzed and terrified, I passed out again
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I drove back to my apartment later, called my parents, and moved home. The police wouldn't even take my story. I talked to my therapist, and that was helpful, but I still struggled with anxiety attacks and bouts of severe depression. But then I found what would change me forever -- yoga
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It started as simple exercises, then become a daily practice of meditation, mindfulness, spirituality, and reconnecting with my body.I hated my body -- I wanted to escape it, to hide away and live in my head
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Trauma-sensitive yoga, however, teaches how to be gentle with yourself, to be in the moment, and find that comfort and healing once again. It was absolutely life-changing for me. I even reached a point where I was able to forgive my attacker, inside myself, and stop the cycle of hate. I studied TSY as much as I could, and became a certified teacher. Now I am thrilled to be able to help and guide other women on their own path to healing. I truly feel this is my purpose in life
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It happened to me too, like it happens to too many others. But nobody took anything away from me. I’m still whole and I’m complete. And now, with yoga as a tool and a lifestyle, I'm stronger than ever before 🙏 Julie
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