Practise allows Sue to calm her world, become more present and in turn has gradually lifted her confidence.

Sue is a survivor of government institutional sexual abuse in Melbourne. Five years ago, Sue reported one case when her son had reached the age at which she was abused and her post-traumatic stress symptoms were worsening.

Sue’s body and mind were “breaking down” during the high-profile court case in 2015, right amid the Loud Fence movement in Ballarat.

Mindfulness and breathing techniques learned through yoga helped Sue through her toughest, darkest moments.

“Yoga really actually gave me back the ability to eat for a short time during that stressful period,” Sue said.

“It gave me short periods I could relax in and the minute I walked in the door, I felt fully accepted by all. They had no idea what had happened to me, what conditions I had or what had gone on in my life prior.

Diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder, Sue experiences depression, anxiety and a constant fight-or-flight mode. Hatha yoga can calm her and hot yoga helps ease her hyper-vigilant state.

Consistent practise is important to Sue. She has been grateful to instructors at Absolute Yoga and Pilates who have supported and accepted her without judgement for almost a decade.

Sue encourages others to try the benefits of yoga for mental health, even if just for a little help in aspects of life like parenting.

“Yoga is one of the tools that I use to manage this, along with many other things, such as exercise, gardening, mindfulness, my friends, one on one time spent with my boys, pet therapy and bushwalking,” Sue said. “Also, daily gratitude's for the small and generous gifts in our lives.”

Sue was guest speaker for a free yoga class by Lake Wendouree on Friday to celebrate Mental Health Month.

READ MORE

Have you signed up to The Courier's variety of news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in Ballarat.