From Policy Advisor to Social Entrepreneur: Danielle Begg on Trauma-Informed Yoga & Reimagining Wellbeing
Episode 1
Episode Overview
In the premiere episode of The Mind Body Method, we flip the script - Danielle Begg, the podcast's host, steps into the guest seat. Interviewed by eco-style powerhouse Faye Delanty, Danielle opens up about her transition from government policy advisor to creator of two purpose-driven organisations bringing trauma-informed yoga to communities who need it most. This conversation explores the philosophy, challenges, science, and soul behind trauma-informed yoga, while spotlighting the human stories driving Danielle's work.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How trauma-informed yoga reaches diverse communities. Danielle shares the origin story of The Yoga Impact Charity and Body Mind Heart Training, explaining how trauma-informed Yoga is adapted for diverse communities. She explains why accessible, culturally relevant, and evidence-based yoga can become a powerful tool for community healing.
How trauma-informed yoga differs from studio yoga. Danielle breaks down the key distinctions, including:
an emphasis on educating people about their bodies and informed choice in relation to movement and breathing techniques
considering and listening to the needs of the individual/group in front of you and tailoring aspects of the practice to meet their needs
prioritising emotional and physical safety
understanding the nervous system's stress response
sharing practices with an emphasis on connection to self and regulation, rather than performance
The Benefits: what trauma-informed yoga can offer. Danielle discusses the research-backed and lived experience benefits she's witnessed, including results of evaluations from her programs conducted by the New South Wales Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors
reduction in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms
reduction in Depression symptoms
improved sleep
fostering connection and a sense of belonging
cultivating a sense of fun
creating accessible pathways to wellbeing for people often excluded from accessing the benefits of mind-body practices like Yoga
Obstacles and lessons from building a social enterprise. Danielle offers a candid look at creating impact-driven models outside the traditional health system and the importance of persistence in the face of obstacles
Listen if you're interested in:
trauma-informed care
community wellbeing
yoga for mental health
social entrepreneurship
sustainable, inclusive health initiatives
