How Starfish Works

Starfish classes combine physical exercise with chanted affirmations, writing, meditation, and a group share/processing circle. Depending on the group's needs, we may include YogaDance, art, relaxation and self-massage techniques, and other approaches.

We organize our curriculum by recovery themes, explored in depth over weeks. Examples are “Accepting Feelings,” “Boundaries,” and “At Home in the World”. All facets of class incorporate the theme.

To help participants reclaim a lost sense of control, we invite them to engage at whatever level of activity they are comfortable. In a gentle, lighthearted environment, trauma survivors can reconnect to themselves and find comfort in community.

Research shows that trauma impacts not only emotions but also mental and physical functioning; brain, body, nervous system, behavior, and emotions dynamically interact. Starfish offers an effective healing tool by resonating for survivors on multiple levels.