Description

It is estimated that 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodiverse or neurodivergent. Adults, and in some cases women in particular, are increasingly learning that they are neurodiverse. 

As awareness and research grow, neurodiversity remains a new area for many yoga teachers. What are its implications for everyday life, health, wellbeing and participation, for example in yoga classes, longer events and study? While adults with neurodiversity (including yoga teachers) are often naturally drawn to yoga, some aspects of classes and teaching can be problematic rather than supportive. How can the unique strengths, challenges and needs associated with neurodiversity be welcomed and comfortably integrated, and often for the benefit of the whole class? 

Join us to explore this important topic and best practice for working with students with, for example, dyslexia, autism, ADHD, dyspraxia or dyscalculia (some of which can co-occur), whether diagnosed or undiagnosed. Discover too how the lived experiences of these populations is best placed to inform our teaching approach, and how working together refreshes and elevates our skills and outlook as teachers overall, for the benefit of all students.   

This day is aimed at yoga teachers keen to: 
•    Gain an insight into current understanding and the lived experiences of various neurodiverse populations and how these impact health, wellbeing and comfortable participation in yoga classes and study
•    Distinguish between what is helpful and unhelpful, for example in terms of the class environment, practicalities, communication and language, teaching/learning methods, structure, pace and resources
•    Understand which yoga practices can be most valuable for these populations and why
•    Develop the knowledge, skills and understanding to support the participation of neurodiverse students with an open-mind, compassion and confidence

The day will feature: discussion, asana, tailored pranayama and yoga nidra. 

Carol Trevor

Carol Trevor began practising yoga in 1991. Qualified with the BWY in London, she has contributed to teacher training programmes in Cambridge, Hertfordshire and London since 2008 and offers CPD workshops and trainings. She is an Advanced Relax and Renew Trainer® (restorative yoga), is certified in yoga nidra and qualified in sports massage therapy and injury prevention. Through personal exploration, study and teaching she is experienced in working with hypermobility and associated conditions such as neurodiversity. Much of her local teaching is on a one-to-one basis. 

Additional Information

What to Bring

Usual yoga equipment including blankets, blocks, eye pillow or scarf. A bolster, sandbag(s) or bags of pulses for weights if you have them (otherwise blankets can be used).