Yoga as Mutual Recovery: Clinical and Social Implications for Looked-After Children and their Carers

This study explores the concept of 'creative practice as mutual recovery' in a group of looked-after children, including their formal/informal carers. The main objective is to assess the therapeutic effects of a more dynamic, fun and physical type of Yoga -called Kundalini Yoga- on well-being and relationship outcomes. Looked-after children (LAC) often exhibit challenging behaviours, emotional and well-being needs. Formal therapeutic treatment, such as counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy, is often rejected by LAC and provision of alternative therapeutic care is poor or non-existent. Overall, there is not a great deal known about how to fill the gaps in the provision of nurture and attachment of which these children have been so severely deprived. One of the benefits of yoga over other physical exercise or creative therapies is that it gives a sense of connectedness to the self and others, facilitating healthier relationships and secure attachment.

Project Start Date: Wednesday 1st January 2014 Project End Date: Saturday 31st December 2016

Elvira Perez Vallejos

elvira.perez@nottingham.ac.uk

Tel.: 0788 128 0369

Horizon, Triumph Road, Jubilee Campus, The University of Nottingham, NG7 2TU