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Abstract
Introduction: Children with experiences of complex trauma are at risk of developing severe attachment, self-regulation, and behavioral difficulties. Exploratory studies show that practicing yoga can improve their functioning and reduce their internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Objectives: The Namaste program, an adaptation of the “Yoga-Based Psychotherapy” manual (Beltran et al., 2014), aims to improve self-regulation and mental health. This study aims to document its effects on children who have experienced complex trauma. Method: Twelve sessions were conducted with children aged 6 to 13 years old who were followed by a child protection center. The sessions combined yoga postures, breathing exercises, and other activities promoting self-regulation and socialization. Children’s functioning and symptoms were measured with the BASC-3 questionnaire before and after the intervention. Two detailed case studies describe the potential impacts of this intervention. Results: The two case studies have demonstrated positive impacts on internalizing and externalizing symptoms, as well as self-regulation, but no effect on self-esteem and social skills. Implications: The Namaste program may be a promising intervention to improve functioning and reduce psychological symptoms in this population. The integration of principles of yoga sensitive to complex trauma, the modality of groups, and a focus on self-regulation seem to be key elements. Further larger-scale studies are needed to confirm the potential positive impacts of this intervention.