Not your ordinary Yoga Class!

Therapeutic Movement is a blending of exercises from the professional disciplines of physical therapy, yoga, myofascial release therapy, and the study of nervous system health. It is lead by a trauma-informed physical therapist who integrates the practices into her daily life.

Therapeutic Movement Explained

Therapeutic Movement is a holistic practice combining physical therapy, gentle and restorative yoga, self-myofascial release, and education on nervous system health.  Practicing this mindful movement enhances daily living at home, work, or the gym.  Students are introduced to wellness-themed lessons that include novel exercises using a variety of therapeutic supports and tools. The practice incorporates low-impact and modifiable physical activities as well as relaxation exercises.  The lesson plans offer time to build awareness of one’s environment as well as the internal sensations, known as interoception.   This leads to a habit of taking time to be more fully present and aware of one’s body, thoughts, and breathing. A regular practice of noticing the felt sensations and responding to them in a healthy way is embodiment. These new habits will create new neural pathways, supporting healing and growth regardless of age.  This phenomenon, known as neuroplasticity, occurs because neurons that fire together, wire together. Whether it is a small group class or a private lesson, students will be learning in an environment that offers education on stress biology, posture, and basic anatomy.   Students are encouraged to always follow their impulses and make each class ‘their own’. The class environment has been described as pleasant, comfortable, and supportive by most students.

Words spoken at the opening of the Maya Angelou Center for Women's Health and Wellness is an appropriate reminder of ‘the why’ behind this body of work. “That’s the biggest gift I can give anybody: Wake up, be aware of who you are, what you’re doing, and what you can do to prevent yourself from becoming ill.”   ~Maya Angelou

  • As someone who’s done her fair share of yoga and bodywork, I was astonished at how much I learned about my body and how to take care of it in Lisa’s workshop. Therapeutic Movement is eclectic and comprehensive, but not overwhelming. I came home with a whole new toolkit and started new routines the morning after. My body thanks me, and I thank Lisa.

    ~Daral

  • The movement ideas you give after (MFR) therapy and in class have been so relevant and helpful. The P.A.I.N. model can be incorporated for so many situations, not just pain. Your technique and expertise are teaching me to be more gentle with myself. I am learning what it feels like to relax areas that I hold tension. I have been holding tension for 60 plus years so this is a journey but I am seeing improvement!

    ~Joan

  • Relaxing and informative ways to take care of your body!!!

    ~ Paula

  • I discovered Lisa's Therapeutic Movement classes through first taking a workshop. I highly recommend them to people in all levels of exercise. The moves, exercises, attention to breathing, and Lisa's instruction resulted in me leaving with improved range of motion and a calmer mind!

    ~ Ann

  • A Therapeutic Movement workshop was a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Lisa made everyone feel comfortable while also being informative and organized. We learned, we stretched, we felt better about our bodies going out than we did going in. Looking forward to being able to attend another session.

    ~ Jennifer

  • I attend Lisa’s therapeutic movement classes to learn to pay attention to my body and move in a way that supports my journey to healing. When I allow myself to be fully present and open myself to explore how physical movement impacts me, I feel positive changes within myself. This is different from previous trainings that kept me in my head. Now, my body tells me how to move.

    - Teresa

Who would benefit from this class?

Classes are particularly helpful for individuals who are:

  • Recovering from injury or experiencing chronic pain.

  • Pursuing postural and balance awareness and strength in both the sedentary and the active parts of daily life.

  • Healing from trauma, chronic overwhelm, and/or fatigue-related conditions.

  • Seeking connection and body-mind-spirit wellness.

  • Interested in learning about the biology of stress and adversity, and developing ways to counterbalance the impact of the accumulation of life stressors.

  • Looking to be a ‘student’ of their body through developing awareness of the internal sensations and implementing new movement routines during work, play, or any part of the day.

What’s in a class?

  • Core work, joint stability, and joint mobility exercises

  • Balance and coordination exercises

  • Breathing and posture awareness exercises

  • Self-myofascial release techniques

  • Neurosensory exercises for nervous system health

  • Creative and intuitive movements

  • Themed lesson plans on healthy topics and review of basic anatomy

  • Education on and application of a 4-step process: P.A.I.N. Model™

  • Use of a variety of props, supports, and therapy tools to make the exercises more accessible and fun

  • Support of trauma-informed licensed Physical Therapist through:

    • Gentle hands-on adjustments during group lessons.

    • Practical ideas for adding intentional movement practices at home, at the gym, or even while in the car or at work.