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Yoga for EVERY Body.
 
My name is Bonnie Abbott (she/her).  I'm a trauma-informed yoga teacher passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces for kids, teens, and adults to heal and grow. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, including sexual assault, domestic violence, and substance abuse, while also offering dynamic and accessible yoga classes for people of all body types and abilities.
 
As a former educator, teaching kids yoga is a joy of mine, whether it’s in a playful setting or focused on fostering resilience and mindfulness. Beyond the mat, I provide practical, engaging education on nervous system regulation to schools, daycares, and community organizations. My approach is rooted in compassion, connection, and making yoga accessible to everyone. I hope to see you soon!

BASED IN FREDERICK, MD.

  • Do I have to be flexible or fit to do yoga?
    Nope! Yoga is unfortunately often depicted as a hyper-athletic almost gymnastic-type movement practice, which leads to a lot of folks feeling like they could NEVER. This isn't the case! Yoga can be practiced by anyone who can breathe. (yes, really.) I have studied extensively about accessible and inclusive yoga as well as trauma informed yoga practices. I'm ready to help teach you whether you'd like to practice in a chair, wall, on a mat, or any combination.
  • How is trauma informed yoga different?
    Trauma-informed yoga integrates principles such as creating a safe environment, empowering choice, and recognizing the impact of trauma on the body and mind. It emphasizes providing options, encouraging self-awareness, and avoiding triggering language or sequences, catering to individuals with trauma histories. Non -TI yoga typically focuses mostly on physical postures, without specifically addressing trauma sensitivity or psychological safety. Simply - I consider emotional needs as well as physical before, during, and after class.
  • Is yoga a religion?
    Yoga itself is not a religion, but rather a spiritual and philosophical practice originating from ancient India. While it can be practiced within the context of various religious traditions, yoga transcends religious boundaries. With Kids Yoga, our classes are a more secular practice focusing on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. In kids' classes, we're using a social-emotional lens; helping to identify emotions, practice problem-solving, learn kid-friendly ways to relieve stress, and develop empathy. We do this through a LOT of games and screen-free PLAY! Within my adult classes, I do my best to honor the roots of yoga, weaving in the 'Eight Limbs' as often as I can. This means you may hear about spiritual teachings (yama & niyama) along with our physical movement practice (āsana). I also often incorporate breathwork, (prāṇāyāma) and guided meditation (dhyāna). But don't worry, we will still goof off, laugh, and occasionally swear! I'm an imperfect, messy human offering up ideas, you're always welcome to 'take what you need, leave what you don't.' Feel free to email me if you'd like to know more. :)
  • Do kids have to be quiet for kids yoga events?
    ABSOLUTELY NOT. Kids are allowed to be kids! I used to be an elementary school teacher so I welcome the rambunctious, can't-sit-still, so much to SAY kiddos.
  • What are the benefits of kids yoga?
    Kids yoga helps improve flexibility, strength, and balance while also promoting focus, concentration, and relaxation. It can boost confidence and self-esteem in children.
  • What should kids bring to class?
    Kids should wear comfortable clothing suitable for movement, bring a water bottle for hydration, and arrive a few minutes early to set up for the class.
  • What is the duration of a typical kids yoga class?
    Children's yoga classes typically range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the attention span and age of the group. Children's AERIAL yoga classes typically range from 60 to 75 minutes, providing ample time for a variety of poses and aerial activities.
  • How can I contact you?
    Email me: TraumaInformedHealing@gmail.com Make sure to save my name to your 'contacts' to avoid sending my response to spam.
  • Do you travel to teach?
    Yes! Currently I work out of Frederick, MD. Keep in mind travel over an hour may alter the pricing. Email me with your questions: TraumaInformedHealing@gmail.com

I have question not listed here -

My question is about:

Kids & Teens

Yoga helps kids, teens and young adults build confidence, emotional regulation, and resilience all while having fun!  My goal is to help young people explore their inner power and develop mental and emotional tools to better face life’s challenges. 

 

I have been in education spaces for over 15 years and have seen first-hand the power and positive impact of yoga and mindfulness in kids, families, and schools. Join me in exploring the power of yoga for kids!

Ongoing Education

I regularly provide programming to communities in the DMV,  traveling and working directly with  schools, daycares,  homeschool/parenting groups, Girl Scout Troops, libraries ...  Together we can coordinate and provide personalized content to meet the goals of  your organization. Some topics include:  nervous system regulation, stress responses, social/emotional learning, burnout prevention, boundary setting & advocating, and accessibility.

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