Therapeutic Yoga.

Therapeutic yoga is a holistic approach to mental and physical wellness. It can be provided in one on one, small group, or class settings. Therapeutic yoga education provides insight into the body’s workings, self-regulation, and wellness practices. it is a combination of movement, mindfulness, meditation, breathwork, and introspective discussion - appropriate for individuals of all backgrounds and ability levels.

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Upward Inertia aims to reach those who may otherwise not have access to the benefits of yoga, mindfulness, and introspection.

+ Outreach

The majority of Upward Inertia’s programming is community outreach. Through this branch, UI brings therapeutic yoga to vulnerable populations, many who have had little access to self-care and wellness education throughout their life. At present, Upward Inertia is providing services in 5 IDOC (Dept. of Corrections) facilities, offering more than 9 classes per week. In addition, we are working to expand our offerings to provide courses for those navigating commmunity reentry, managing mental illnes and addiction, and for at-risk youth through schools and afterschool programs. As we grow our teaching team, we aim to expand our offerings to serve victims of domestic violence, individuals recovering from eating disorders, refugees, and unhoused populations.

Goals of the intervention include:

  • Improved understanding of anger management, stress management, and emotional regulation strategies
  • Improved understanding of body systems and functions
  • Increased interoception
  • Improved understanding of effective preventative practices to benefit physical health
  • Increased awareness of emotional and mental health triggers
  • Improved awareness of health choices and practices related to food, exercise, relationships, etc.
  • Self-reported improvements in relationships and social interactions
  • Increased self-efficacy, effective goal setting, and prioritization

All courses are a combination of introspective discussion, mindfulness education, breathwork, guided meditation, and basic movement. We provide basic education on Ayurveda, self-care practices, goal setting, mindful and intentional communication, and relationship building techniques. Our offerings are adapted to meet the student’s needs in order to ensure safety and comfort. This may include completing poses in a seated or lying position, adding or reducing movement. Because of this, all courses are available to all individuals regardless of age, physical ability, or fitness levels.

In the 2023 year, we served more than 250 students in our prison based classes.

+ Community offerings

Upward Inertia is committed to providing community courses that increase the accessibility of yoga to our community. In addition to our structured courses, which are slated to be offered beginning in the summer of 2024, we also offer donation based community classes. These classes are offered on a drop in basis and vary in style and length. Community members of all ages, sizes, and ability levels are welcome to attend.

Cost: All of Upward Inertia's prison based classes are offered free of cost to participating students. Community based offerings are provided on a sliding scale, allowing for access to those financial hardships.

+ Research

In collaboration with professors from Boise State University, Upward Inertia is working to collect data that will outline the benefits, strengths and weaknesses of our program, and allow us to provide the most effective intervention possible. It is our goal to present this research across the US, in order to allow the expansion of mind-body based education in carceral settings and recovery centers.

All offerings will be adapted to meet the client’s needs in order to ensure safety and comfort. This may include completing poses in a seated or lying position, adding or reducing movement. Education of breathing and meditation techniques, basic ayurvedic practices and health coaching, mindfulness strategies, and home practices will be taught.

Classes and private sessions utilize:

    • Asana (movement)

    • Mindfulness practices

    • Breathwork

    • Meditation

    • Introspective Discussion

    • Ayurvedic health coaching

    • Yogic philosophy

      • Including: goal setting, perception, non-attachment, gratitude practices, etc.

 
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What students say…

“This class has made me feel more at peace and more mindful to others. Yoga has dramatically affected my PTSD in ways that that I never thought possible. I sleep better and am able to call my kids without having any issues because of the combination of breathing techniques and other teachings that Kaelyn presents to us. I try to get all of my friends to go to this yoga class because it just makes you a better person. “

— M. Dauber, Inmate at ISCI

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“My total wellbeing has improved since I began to attend. Not only am I improving my physical health but my emotional health and stability are markedly better…I tend to be more at peace, mindful of others, and compassionate. It seems to me that every person at this facility reaps the benefits either directly or indirectly. It is truly my favorite time of the week and I look forward to everything I will learn.”

L. Smith, Inmate at ISCI

Contact us to inquire about how therapeutic yoga may be beneficial for you or your family member.

 

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