Through their company, The Whole Health Project, Lucy Foster-Perkins and Rachel Fearnley offer online Trauma Aware Teacher Trainings in Breathwork, Meditation, Yin Yoga and Trauma Aware Facilitation.
Today, we're exploring an essential topic for anyone who leads groups, whether you're a teacher, group leader, or coach: the impact of being trauma-aware on group facilitation. This is a subject close to my heart, and I believe it's something that can truly transform the way we support and guide others.
Let’s start with a simple truth: When asked, most facilitators would say they want to create a safe, trauma-aware space for their students or clients.
However, the reality is that it’s easy to misinterpret signs of trauma or overlook subtle cues. For instance, I remember when I used to inwardly roll my eyes when a student "refused" to close their eyes during a meditation or breath session. I used to think they were just not choosing to focus or listen to “simple” instruction, not realising that closing their eyes might have felt unsafe for them due to past trauma.
This was a powerful lesson for me, one that shifted the way I approach facilitation entirely.
So, what does it mean to be trauma-aware in the context of group facilitation, and why is it so important?
1. Creating a safe space
Being trauma-aware means prioritising safety wherever possible (accepting that there is no way of avoiding every trigger for everyone), but this doesn’t need to be overly complicated.
Creating a safe space means being aware of how language, instructions, and the way you support your participants affect the way they feel in the group and, therefore, how they engage with the process without fear of being triggered, overwhelmed, or worse, retraumatised.
2. Understanding trauma responses
Trauma can manifest in many ways, and these responses can sometimes be misunderstood. A student who seems distracted or unable to follow instructions might not be disengaged; they could be having a trauma response. By being trauma aware, you can recognise these signs and respond with compassion rather than frustration.
For example, if someone is struggling to focus on their breath, it might be because their nervous system is in a heightened state. Instead of pushing them to “focus more,” you could offer a grounding exercise or a gentler approach that feels more manageable for them in that moment.
3. Fostering inclusivity and empowerment
When you facilitate with a trauma-aware approach, you’re not just helping your participants feel safe. You’re empowering them to have agency in their own process. By acknowledging and respecting their experiences, you help them feel seen and validated. This, in turn, fosters a sense of inclusivity within the group, where everyone feels valued and supported.
Encourage your participants to tune into their own needs and make choices that feel right for them, whether that’s opting out of a particular exercise or taking a break when needed. This approach not only enhances their experience but also builds trust and a deeper connection within the group.
4. The ripple effect
The impact of being trauma-aware goes beyond just the immediate group session. When participants feel safe, supported, and empowered, they’re more likely to carry these feelings into other areas of their lives. The ripple effect of this work can lead to lasting change, not only in how they engage with your sessions but in their overall sense of well-being and resilience.
If you’re passionate about creating truly supportive and transformative spaces for your clients or students, becoming trauma-aware is not just beneficial; it’s essential. It’s about more than just avoiding harm; it’s about actively contributing to their healing and growth in a way that honours their individual journey.
Ready to deepen your practice?
If this resonates with you and you’re eager to learn more, I invite you to join our Online Trauma Aware Facilitation Training. This training is for coaches, leaders, teachers, and facilitators who want to better understand trauma, learn how to spot possible triggers, and gain the tools to create a safe and inclusive space.
Click here to learn more and begin your journey toward becoming a more compassionate and effective facilitator.
Lucy Foster-Perkins and Rachel Fearnley, Trauma Aware Teacher Trainer and Coach
Through their company, The Whole Health Project, Lucy Foster-Perkins and Rachel Fearnley offer online Trauma Aware Teacher Trainings in Breathwork, Meditation, Yin Yoga and Trauma Aware Facilitation. After their sell out retreats in Bali were forced to close during the pandemic, Rachel and Lucy used to their extensive experience of teaching across the world to help other coaches and teachers to harness and teach accessible healing practices of Breathwork, Meditation and Yin Yoga, with an emphasis on understanding how Trauma Aware Facilitation can be the key to helping clients reach their goals.
