Feedback from incarcerated folx who took TCTSY classes at Ingham County Jail
Debra Hartnagle, aka ‘Deb Hart’, was contracted by Ingham County to provide Trauma Sensitive Yoga for inmates at the Ingham County Jail in Mason, MI.
Weekly, one-hour classes, were held, separately, for those identifying as male or female. It was determined that Hart would offer yoga participants an anonymous survey, which she created, to fill out before and after class. Copies of surveys are provided to ICJ after classes.
The survey asked participants about their pain before and after class, as well as discomfort, anxiety/stress/agitation, ability to notice their body in contact with the floor, their breath and their mood.
Between May of 2019 and the first week of March 2020, 369 inmates attended class with 338 (91.5%) filling out the surveys, which are voluntary.
Those reporting ‘no pain’ before class grew from 37 to 69 percent
People reporting ‘no discomfort’ rose from 31 percent before to 64 percent after.
Those indicating ‘yes’ to anxiety/stress/agitation levels fell from 41 percent before class to 4% post.
Seventy four percent of participants reported noticing their body in contact with the floor before; that number grew to 85 percent afterwards.
Awareness of breath increased from 64 percent before, to 92 percent after class.
63 percent of participants reported their mood as ‘good’ before class and after, 92 percent of participants indicated their mood as ‘good’.
In addition to the six questions asked, space was included for comments/suggestions. Those comments included:
“My mind was a mess thinking and overthinking about my daughters and custody issues. It’s looking like I’ll get full custody but I was still stressing. Yoga and the way you teach it help me to relax muscles and what’s most helpful was what this class does for my mind. Thank you so much. Very appreciated.”
“I focused on mindfulness and a few stretches, clearing my mind was the main goal today.”
“Noticing the body was great.”
“This is my last class (tether Friday). I want to say thank you. This class provided relief physically and mentally. It centers me more than I ever thought possible. If I’m angry this calms me. If I’m worried, this gives me strength. If I’m confused, this class provides clarity. My mind and body feel pure and clear by the end of class. No stress, no discomfort. Only peace & clarity. Thank you so much for this wonderful experience and the opportunity to explore the wonders and joys of yoga. I’m humble and grateful.” (male inmate comment 6 25 2019)
“I’m in much less pain and a lot more peaceful feeling. Loved it!”
“Still worried but focused on conducting myself with honor.”
“First time doing yoga in my life! It was amazing. I definitely look forward to more outside of jail as well.”
“Soothing. Instructor non-judgmental, respectable (respectful?).”
“Wonderful class...more people need to join. Leaving next week or would explore more.”
“Very good for helping mood. I encourage this as a pregnant person.”
“Lots of ‘maybes’ but great class.”
“This is very helpful and relaxing. Thank you so much.”
“More stretching next time.”
“Your voice & cadence was/is very relaxing & helpful with my anxiety. Thank you.”
“I’m very comfortable and relaxed in this class.”
“Thank you for showing up! It gives us hope that the outside world still care(s).”
“Soothing music, dimming of lights...blessed, thank you.”