Language Matters - How Trauma-Informed Principles Creates Safer, More Inclusive Spaces

Wednesday 3rd September 2025

As movement teachers, many of us hold the intention that our classes are welcoming, supportive, and safe for everyone who walks through the door. However that intention alone isn’t always enough. The words we use in class can either reinforce belonging or unintentionally create barriers. If we are are going to say movement is for everyone- than we really need to make sure we are creating that space and intention to be felt in our classes.

That’s where using inclusive language, adapted and anchored from trauma-informed yoga principles come in.

Why Language Matters in Movement Spaces

Movement isn’t just about shapes and sequences. It’s about creating an experience where students feel safe to explore their own bodies and connect with themselves in a way that feels right for them. It’s about holding space for self-awareness — where every person is supported to tune into what feels best in the moment.

This is the core of choice-based teaching — guiding in a way that honours the diversity of bodies, experiences, and needs in the room.

What Trauma-Informed Really Means

Trauma-informed isn’t about a particular sequence or style. It’s about how we teach. At its core, it’s built on principles like, and you can honestly bring it into any movement space or style.

• Safety — offering predictability and clarity in your cues.

• Choice — reminding students that every option is valid.

• Agency — empowering them to listen to their own bodies above all.

• Inclusivity — acknowledging that no two students’ experiences are the same.

When these principles are embedded in our teaching, we create safe movement spaces where students feel seen, supported, and free to practice in their own way.

The Ripple Effect

When we use inclusive, invitational language, we don’t just change one class. We create a ripple effect. Students feel safe, respected, and more likely to return. Teachers feel more aligned with their values. And collectively, we begin to shift movement culture into one that prioritizes safety, agency, and inclusivity.

Want to learn more? My short online course, The Power of Language in Movement Spaces - From Directing to Inviting, is designed for yoga teachers who want practical, trauma-informed tools to weave into their classes straight away.