In this episode of Sofia Unfiltered, Dr. Michelle speaks with Alison Scola, Trauma Informed IAYT Certified Yoga Therapist, E-RYT 500, Reiki Master, Equine Somatic Movement Educator, and Licensed Massage Therapist
Finding Joy Amidst Chronic Pain: Alison Scola's Story of Resilience
In an intimate conversation on Sofia Unfiltered, Alison Scola shares her profound journey of transformation, navigating through the depths of chronic pain toward healing and self-discovery. Despite a tumultuous past marked by trauma, addiction, and a myriad of physical ailments stemming from numerous car accidents, Alison found solace and empowerment through yoga therapy. Encountering a moment of peace and relief during a yoga class in the early nineties, Alison embarked on a holistic healing journey that defied conventional medical approaches. Rejecting pharmaceutical interventions, she embraced yoga therapy as a catalyst for reconnecting with her body and addressing the underlying emotional turmoil. Today, Alison embodies resilience and joy, armed with the tools to navigate life's challenges while living fully and authentically in her body. Her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of listening to one's body and embracing alternative modalities for healing and self-care.
What sets Trauma-Informed Yoga apart from conventional yoga practices?
Trauma-Informed Yoga (TIY) is an approach to yoga that acknowledges and addresses the specific needs of trauma survivors, recognizing that trauma can be held in the body. Unlike typical yoga classes, which may inadvertently trigger trauma responses, TIY creates a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore embodiment without feeling overwhelmed. TIY focuses less on perfecting poses and more on fostering a sense of safety and grounding, aiming to activate the parasympathetic nervous system's "rest-and-digest" response rather than triggering the sympathetic nervous system's fight-or-flight response. This approach emphasizes self-regulation, body awareness, and inclusivity, making it suitable for those dealing with chronic pain and trauma-related symptoms.
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Navigating Chronic Pain with Yoga Therapy
Embracing yoga as a means of reconnecting with her body and addressing underlying emotional turmoil, Alison embarked on a journey to heal naturally. Today, as a yoga therapist, she offers a holistic approach that integrates physical, emotional, and energetic aspects of well-being. Yoga therapy, she explains, goes beyond traditional yoga practices, encompassing gentle movements, breath work, and meditation tailored to individual needs.
The Transformative Power of Trauma-Informed Yoga
Alison Scola shares insights into the deep connection between movement, emotion, and chronic pain, highlighting how past experiences can manifest as tension in the body. Through yoga therapy, individuals can release stored emotions and tension, allowing for healing and integration on multiple levels. Alison's approach, which includes both movement-based therapy and nurturing bodywork, emphasizes collaboration and trauma-informed care, providing a safe space for clients to explore and process their experiences. Michelle's personal endorsement of Alison's approach underscores the transformative power of this holistic healing modality, which honors the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
Practical Strategies for Managing Chronic Pain
Michelle Kole and Alison Scola explore practical strategies for managing chronic pain and promoting overall well-being. Alison emphasizes the importance of incremental lifestyle changes, starting with gentle movements like short walks or stretches, to gradually release tension and increase mobility. She highlights the profound impact of diet on inflammation, sharing her own experience of reducing pain by eliminating high-glycemic foods. Simple yet powerful practices such as mindful breathing, spending time outdoors, and cultivating connections with loved ones or pets are also recommended to support holistic healing. Through their collaborative approach, they aim to empower individuals to reclaim movement, prioritize self-care, and embark on a journey toward improved health and vitality.
Alison Scola is currently offering an exclusive discount for listeners of Sofia Unfiltered. To take advantage of this offer, you can book a session with her and avail of the discount.
More from Sofia Health
Check out the full episode of the Sofia Unfiltered podcast, "Trauma-Informed Yoga as Chronic Pain Therapy", available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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Disclaimer: The Sofia Unfiltered Podcast by Sofia Health is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have. For any health concerns, users should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals.
