Move with HaRT is intended for every body, size, fitness level, faith, etc. It does not matter whether participants are completely new or have a dedicated movement practice already. Using a trauma-informed approach, we emphasize safety and choice throughout. Participants choose what to try, what to skip, what to believe, and what to ignore.
Who?
What?
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Move with HaRT is a twelve week mind-body program that accompanies women and girls on their healing journeys.
Our curriculum is organized around three themes: Safety in the Body, Radical Self Love, and Compassion in Action. Weekly 90-minute sessions include breathwork, yoga poses, guided relaxation, mindfulness exercises and interactive discussions, including a 'closing circle' reflection.
We implement Move with HaRT in partnership with like-minded organizations who support survivors of gender-based violence. Sessions are guided by a trained facilitator, and HaRT provides ongoing technical assistance to adapt and/or integrate the program as needed.
Recent advances in trauma theory and neuroscience reveal how trauma can be stored in the body. This embodied trauma can cause a dysregulated nervous system, potentially leading to poor physical and mental health. However the body also holds promise for healing! Intentional movement and breathwork in a supportive environment can be therapeutic, improving physical and emotional health and social connections. We believe there are several mechanisms through which our program supports holistic wellbeing, for example:
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Restore balance in the nervous system by triggering parasympathetic (‘rest and digest’) response through vagal nerve activation and abdominal breathing.
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Restore self agency through direct experiences of making informed choices and feeling physical strength in the body.
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Alleviate social isolation by building a supportive community.
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Read more about the science behind Move with HaRT here!