Resilience from trauma: Examination of a gender-responsive trauma-informed mind-body program among female inmates

Background: A growing evidence-base supports the connection between trauma and disease. Research suggests that mindfulness practices, such as yoga and meditation, can lead to neurological and physiological changes that may counter the impact of trauma and promote health and well-being. Women in the U.S. prison system suffer a disproportionate burden of physical and emotional traumas, and may benefit from a gender-responsive, trauma-informed mind-body program. Purpose: This study examines the implementation and effectiveness of a gender-responsive, trauma-informed mind-body (TIMBo) program delivered to inmates at the MCI Framingham Women's Prison in Massachusetts. Based on a train-the-trainer model, TIMBo is an eight-module, accessible, research-based curriculum that includes mind-body practices and tools to support long-term trauma recovery. Methods: The TIMBo pilot study was conducted with 14 women over eight weeks. Research staff administered pre and post surveys and collected qualitative data through individual interviews and focus group discussions. Results: Women reported less stress and physical symptoms and were more likely to be aware of how emotions manifest in the body following completion of the program. There was a significant increase in the use of TIMBo tools following the program. Prior to participating, women used on average 2.7 tools; after completion women used 4 on average. All of the women shared tools learned with others including fellow inmates and half shared with their children. Conclusions: TIMBo is a promising program that supports the mitigation of traumatic symptomology among female inmates, and addresses the need for sustainable, quality and equitable service provision among under-served female populations.