Trauma-informed yoga training in Kenya: A qualitative pilot study on feasibility and acceptability

Area of Science:

• Mind-Body Therapies
• Trauma-Informed Care
• Global Health Education

Background:

• Yoga and mindfulness are effective complementary approaches for stress and trauma.
• Implementing novel curricula in diverse global settings presents unique challenges.
• Trauma-informed care is crucial for effective mental health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively explore the collaboration between yoga agencies in Kenya.
• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a trauma-informed mindfulness curriculum for yoga teachers.
• To identify best practices for global implementation of embodied mindfulness programming.

Main Methods:

• Pilot qualitative study utilizing grounded theory.
• Exploration of survey results from yoga teachers in Nairobi, Kenya.
• Collaboration between two yoga service agencies.

Main Results:

• The trauma-informed mindfulness curriculum demonstrated promise for acceptability and feasibility.
• Curriculum tools were perceived as effective by participants.
• Participants expressed intent to utilize and share the learned tools.

Conclusions:

• The study suggests potential benefits for future collaborations in global health education.
• Findings offer insights into best practices for implementing embodied mindfulness programming worldwide.
• The trauma-informed mindfulness curriculum is a promising intervention for yoga teachers in Kenya.