Neurodiversity in Yoga, Meditation and other Movement Modalities

25 hours; with Caz Pringle-Bowden

AYA is thrilled to work with Caz Pringle-Bowden to provide training for yoga and pilates teachers and everyone who works with students in other movement modalities, such as physical fitness, martial arts and school teachers.

This training is fundamental in broadening our understanding of neurodiversity, its key terms, and learning about a range of neurodevelopmental differences that may affect students’ experiences in yoga and other movement classes. The yogic principle of ahimsa and an inclusive approach, both from a trauma informed and neuroaffirming perspective, will guide our learning together.

Key areas of focus are Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Complex Post Traumatic Stress (C-PTSD), Bipolar, and other innate and acquired cognitive/learning differences that fall under the Neurodivergent umbrella.

Key topic areas of learning are:

• Psychoeducation
• Practical application of neuro-affirming practice in yoga & meditation
• Practical application of neuro-affirming practice in other movement modalities, specifically in pilates, group fitness, personal training and martial arts

At the end of this training, you will have developed practical and trauma informed strategies to adapt your teaching methods and teaching environments to better support neurodivergent students by understanding:

• Common (sensory / processing / social and more) challenges for the neurodivergent yoga student
• The neurodivergent nervous system
• Ways to create safety when a student discloses their differences
• Inclusive language and cueing tips for different brains
• Accommodations and allowances in studio & sensory considerations
• A neuroaffirming movement practice example

You will also receive a full reference and resources list outlining books, articles, podcasts, educators/advocates. As well as hearing from Caz, you will hear from a range of other experts so that you receive a well-rounded and broad perspective on working with neurodivergent students.

AYA is proud to host Caz Pringle-Bowden to share this very important information with all yoga teachers and students who have an interest in this area. No previous yoga teacher training is required to attend this training; everyone with a keen interest in this area is welcome.

Please contact Mel Mackintosh on 0413 298 132 or at info@australianyogaacademy.com if you have any queries.

About Your Facilitator

Caz Pringle-Bowden

Caz is a passionate yoga teacher and counsellor with a diverse background in both mental health and high-pressure industries, which enriches my unique approach to supporting people from all walks of life.

She completed yoga teacher training and fitness qualifications in 2017, and embarked on a mission to integrate mindfulness practices into high-stress environments. Her yoga journey has led Caz to teach yoga and boxing to at-risk youth in Melbourne’s juvenile detention centres and to work with disadvantaged communities. She also facilitates a weekly trauma-informed yoga class for current and ex-serving military, ambulance, police, and healthcare personnel affected by post-traumatic stress injuries.

As a proud late-diagnosed neurodivergent woman, Caz provides neurodiversity training which supports adults with ADHD/Autism and also trains yoga teachers and organisations in neuo-affirming practice / neuro-inclusion.

 If you would like more information on Caz, please follow her @cazpringlebowden.