Prison Yoga & Meditation

TRANSFORMING LIVES BEHIND BARS: THE POWER OF YOGA AND MEDITATION IN PRISONS

As a dedicated yoga and meditation teacher, Gail firmly believes in the profound impact yoga and meditation can have on individuals, especially those navigating challenges within prison.

Introducing practices into prisons can lead to positive changes, fostering a more harmonious prison environment and supporting the rehabilitation of individuals.

81% improved mental wellbeing through a yoga & meditation programme*

 

Why choose Meridian Life to deliver yoga and meditation in your prison?

Gail has studied with the Prison Phoenix Trust, the leading UK charity, which supports the rehabilitation of prisoners, through trauma-responsive meditation and yoga. The Trust specialises in training yoga teachers within the prison environment helping to develop patience and empathy, along with skills in specific poses and practices to reduce stress, anxiety, anger, and other emotions prevalent in the prison environment.

Gail is also a qualified coach and mentor, a 500-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher, a qualified Meditation Teacher and has had specialist training in Trauma, Self-Harm and Suicide.

 

The Benefits of Yoga and Meditation in the Prison Environment

1. Improved Mental Health – Yoga and meditation have been clinically proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and PTSD offering an alternative method to improve mental well-being.
2. Reduced Stress – The high-stress environment of prison life can be alleviated through gentle movement, breathing techniques and mindful practices. Once learned these are invaluable tools inmates can use daily to manage stress.
3. Reduced Frustration and Anger – Regular practice helps individuals to control their reactions and emotions, leading to better decision-making, improved relationships and less conflict. These are skills that can help prisoners in their rehabilitation.
4. Physical Health Benefits – Yoga improves physical flexibility, strength, balance and overall health. These positive lifestyle changes can help with sleep, concentration, mental clarity and chronic conditions such as diabetes.
5. Improved Sense of Self-Worth and Belonging – Group sessions foster a sense of community, leading to a sense of peace, reflection and purpose and a more supportive and less volatile prison environment.

 

How Yoga and Meditation Sessions Can Work in Prisons

All sessions are taught using a trauma-informed approach based on the principles of creating a safe and inclusive space and sensitivity to the unique needs of each individual, ensuring all inmates can participate and benefit from these practices.

Sessions are generally one hour long with a choice of styles including gentle hatha or chair yoga, relaxation and meditation.  Within each class, adaptions and variations are given to ensure inclusivity throughout the class.

Meridian Life designs bespoke programmes for each organisation that fit the constraints of prison schedules and security protocols. Assessment and evaluation reports are carried out to monitor how the Yoga and Meditation sessions have helped.

If you’d like to learn more about introducing yoga and meditation into your prison, please do get in touch for a chat to discover how Meridian Life can help implement these transformative practices in your establishment.

 

Contact:

Gail at gail.meridianlife@gmail.com

 

 

* stat from Prison Phoenix Trust yoga and meditation programme