Our Story
As a long-time practitioners of the art and science of yoga, it became clear that whether in our own practice or in work with others, yoga’s impact on mental wellbeing is undeniable and there are exciting parallels with modern psychology. This project was created based on the wish that dialogue and shared ownership of this bourgeoning field of yoga and psychology be investigated, expounded and elevated. As integration is an essential process in healing, so too can be the movement towards greater coherence in ideas and practices.
This effort also speaks to our intention to illuminate duality and support the practice of connection. It is our hope that this work uplifts, inspires and improves the possibility for individual, community and collective wellbeing.
Meet the Founder
Livia Budrys AM, LCSW, SEP, RYT-500, C-IAYT
Livia is the founder of Yoga Informed and is dedicated to the integration of neurobiology, somatics, yoga and psychotherapy practices. She is a licensed Clinical Social Worker holding a Master of Social Service and Administration from the University of Chicago and a Certified Yoga Therapist with the International Association of Yoga Therapists. Livia is a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) and is an Assistant Trainer with the Somatic Training Institute teaching SE worldwide. She is clinically trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Change Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy- Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE), Exposure and Responsive Prevention Therapy (ERP), Certified in EcoPsychology and received formative training in anti-oppressive psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Livia completed a two-year residency at the Himalayan International Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy in 1999, where she was initiated into the tradition of the Himalayan Masters. She has completed over a decade of advanced and therapeutic Yoga certifications and completed training as a Reiki Master in 1998. In 2007, she developed and facilitated a trauma-informed 200 hr YTT and launched the Yoga Informed training in 2012. She is deeply influenced by the mindfulness training that she has received from the Vietnamese Zen Monk, Thich Nhat Hanh. She holds dearly the Dharma name she received at the last silent retreat she attended at Deer Park Monastery; “Joyful Transformation of the Heart”.
Livia has worked to educate organizations on the benefits of psychobiological models and yoga-based approaches and has successfully implemented therapeutic programs, training, and protocols that utilize cutting-edge treatment. She has enjoyed clinical leadership roles at Timberline Knolls, Insight Behavioral Health, Eating Recovery Centers and has been a consultant and trainer for various organization, including Shambhala Meditation Center, Origins Behavioral Healthcare, Crestwood Behavioral Health Treatment Centers, Live Oak and is on the Advisory Board at Skyway Behavioral Health for Trauma Informed Care and Trauma Treatment.
Self Disclosure
I am a white cisgender able-bodied woman. I am queer, middle-class and a first-generation American born to refugees. I am a survivor of generational trauma, medical trauma, and sexual assault. I am committed to continued education, self-reflection and engagement with anti-oppressive theory and practice.
