Alexandra Smith (Counseling, School, and Educational Psychology)

Zoom Link: https://buffalo.zoom.us/j/98606204632?pwd=cGduRElYQU9lTlZOdHB6THV2MUhmQT09

Download: Smith_Poster.pdf

Abstract

Trauma has a direct effect on an individual’s physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Trauma has been known to improve through certain somatic practices such as yoga and mindfulness. In Rwanda, effects the trauma can be associated with a history of colonization, civil war, genocide, natural disaster, and present day traumatizing events (e.g., car accidents). This study explores the effects of participation in Trauma-Informed Mind-Body Wellbeing Program on trauma and wellbeing among participants compared to controls in Rwanda. Overall, results indicate that the program was both acceptable and feasible and compared to controls, those who participated in the program showed significantly decreased symptoms of traumatic stress and increased wellbeing. Follow-up data indicated that continued participation in yoga maintained significant increases in self-efficacy, self-regulation, mindful self-care and a belief in one’s personal growth with yoga participants maintained continued reductions in distress even 5-6 months after the yoga-based program ended. Results suggest that trauma-informed, yoga-based programs are acceptable and may be helpful in the remediation of trauma symptoms and promote wellbeing in Rwanda.