Greetings Readers,

As we begin the month of May we invite you to join us in bringing awareness to Mental Health Awareness Month (“MHAM”). The goal of MHAM is to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and eliminate the barriers that prevent us from getting the help and support needed during difficult times.

It also aims to bring awareness to the need for increased access to mental health resources and education on the importance of mental health and well-being.

“As a psychotherapist, my passion lies in helping individuals navigate the complex and often challenging terrain of mental health. I believe that true healing comes from cultivating compassion for ourselves and others, finding a sense of belonging in our communities, and embracing the growth that comes from facing our struggles with courage and resilience. Befriending our bodies is also a crucial aspect of this healing journey, as it allows us to connect with our physical selves and tap into the wisdom and intuition that resides within.”

– Esther van der Sande, Psychotherapist and Mental Health Advocate.

Congratulations to Our New TCTSY Facilitators in Benelux!

Bertine Rosink, Sanna Maris, Jeltje Peletier, Violier Overmeer, Lot van Lunteren, Joyce Philips, Lotte Hemelink, Mayaris Zepeda Mendez , Puck Hartog, Tiphaine Clerincx, Louise Blair, Henriette Markink, Marianka Zlatkovic.

We are delighted to announce that a group of dedicated individuals have completed their 300 hours of study to become certified TCTSY facilitators! We warmly welcome them to our Benelux team and congratulate them on this impressive achievement.

Becoming a TCTSY facilitator requires a significant amount of time and effort, and we are incredibly proud of these people for their dedication to the practice. Their commitment to learning and growing would no doubt serve them well in their future work with customers.

We wish our new TCTSY facilitators all the best as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their lives. May they continue to learn, grow and bring healing and transformation to those they work with.

Congratulations to our new TCTSY facilitators! We look forward to the incredible impact they would undoubtedly have in our community.

What is Trauma Sensitive Yoga?

Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (“TSY”) is designed to help individuals affected by trauma with the goal of restoring the mind-body connection and easing the physiological experiences of trauma. This approach aims to address the unique needs of trauma survivors and creates a space for survivors to explore through choice and empowerment.

Trauma does not just affect the mind but can also be held in the body. Following a traumatic event, different body sensations can be triggering for someone who has had a history of trauma. TSY facilitators use very specific language designed to help facilitate the healing process and reduce the effects of trauma. Sometimes when we turn towards our bodies, we may feel different sensations which trigger difficult memories. By providing an environment which gives you the ability to choose and being aware of how you might feel in a pose, invitational language allows space for physical and emotional empowerment through choice.

Trauma affects each person differently, meeting the client where they are on that day of their therapeutic process can help them move beyond the traumatic experience and towards healing.

Mental Health Month is an important reminder that we all have inherent worth and value, regardless of our diagnosis, appearance, or socio-economic status. It’s a time to celebrate the strength and resilience of those who have struggled with mental health challenges and to honour the courage it takes to seek help and support.
Thank you for taking the time to read our newsletter and for being a part of our community. As we wrap up this month, let’s take a moment to remind ourselves of the importance of self-care and mental health. Remember, it’s okay to take a break when you need it, and it’s important to seek support and resources when you’re struggling. Let’s continue to support each other and work towards creating a more compassionate and understanding world for those who are affected by mental health challenges.