Releasing Trauma Through Movement

Course Duration: 8 Weeks

Format: Weekly virtual sessions

Facilitator: Raven Gibbs

Course Description

This course is designed to explore how trauma manifests in the body, particularly within the Black community, and to use movement as a healing tool. Through a blend of culturally relevant practices, historical context, and evidence-based somatic techniques, participants will learn how to release trauma and reconnect with their bodies in a safe and supportive environment.

Learning Objectives

Understand the relationship between trauma and the body.
Explore the historical and systemic roots of collective trauma in the Black community.
Develop personal movement practices to release stored trauma and foster resilience.
Build a supportive community for shared healing.

Weekly Breakdown

Week 1: Introduction to Trauma and Movement

Topics:
- Defining trauma and its impact on the body and mind.
- The role of systemic oppression and intergenerational trauma in the Black experience.
- The importance of movement in healing.
Activities:
- Guided body scan meditation.
- Light stretching and breathing exercises.
Homework: Reflect on moments when you’ve felt disconnected from your body.

Week 2: The Body as a Storyteller

Topics:
- How the body holds and expresses trauma.
- Recognizing physical sensations tied to emotions.
Activities:
- Journaling prompts about bodily sensations.
- Gentle yoga flow to tune into the body.
Homework: Track body sensations during emotional experiences.

Week 3: Dance and Movement in African and Diasporic Cultures

Topics:
- Historical and cultural significance of dance in the Black community.
- Movement as resistance and resilience.
Activities:
- Introduction to Afrocentric dance styles.
- Group discussion on cultural connections to movement.
Homework: Create a playlist of songs that make you feel connected to your roots.

Week 4: Breathwork and Grounding Techniques

Topics:
- The connection between breath, stress, and emotional regulation.
- Grounding as a tool for stability and safety.
Activities:
- Breathwork exercises (e.g., diaphragmatic breathing, box breathing).
- Grounding movement practices (e.g., walking meditation).
Homework: Practice daily breathwork for at least 5 minutes.

Week 5: Movement as Liberation

Topics:
- Breaking free from societal constraints through movement.
- Reclaiming joy and freedom in the body.
Activities:
- Free movement session to music.
- Partnered exercises to explore trust and connection.
Homework: Journal about how movement has shifted your mood or perspective.

Week 6: Somatic Healing Practices

Topics:
- Overview of somatic experiencing and body-based trauma therapy.
- Recognizing and releasing tension.
Activities:
- Somatic exercises to identify and release trauma.
- Group sharing circle.
Homework: Notice moments when your body feels tense and practice release techniques.

Week 7: Ritual and Intention in Movement

Topics:
- Incorporating rituals into movement for deeper connection.
- Setting intentions for ongoing healing.
Activities:
- Designing personal movement rituals.
- Group practice of a shared ritual.
Homework: Practice your movement ritual daily.

Week 8: Celebration and Integration

Topics:
- Reflecting on personal and collective growth.
- Creating a plan for continued healing.
Activities:
- Group movement session to celebrate progress.
- Sharing reflections and affirmations.
Homework: Write a letter to yourself about your journey and your intentions moving forward.

Required Materials

Comfortable clothing for movement.
Journal or notebook.
Yoga mat or towel.