Empowering Body-Led Trauma Recovery & Wellbeing in the
East Midlands
At How We Heal CIC, we believe trauma recovery is possible. We are a specialist trauma recovery organisation using body-led approaches to support women affected by trauma. Based in the East Midlands, we deliver trauma-informed programmes that combine therapeutic yoga, somatic practices and nervous system-informed approaches to help women reconnect with themselves, rebuild resilience and move towards lasting recovery.
Our work is survivor-led and inclusive. While our services are open to all, we have particular expertise in supporting women recovering from domestic abuse, anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma.
Together we work towards lasting recovery, resilience and community wellbeing.
Focusing on the connection between mind and body to process and heal from trauma, this approach recognises that traumatic experiences can disrupt the body's natural stress response, leading to physical and emotional symptoms. We move beyond talk therapy by incorporating physical sensations, movement and breathwork to support individuals finding a greater sense of safety in their bodies and to reclaim their resilience and power.
Our Mission
Creating safe, compassionate, accessible, trauma-informed spaces for recovery and wellbeing for communities in Nottingham, Loughborough, Leicester and Derby.
With a focus on women, we create welcoming spaces where people can reconnect with their bodies, rebuild trust in themselves and explore trauma recovery at their own pace.
As a Community Interest Company, we reinvest in our communities, working to reduce barriers to support and streangthen connection.
Our Story
How We Heal CIC was founded on the belief that everyone deserves compassionate support as they navigate life after trauma. We recognise recovery as an ongoing, individual journey, with space for change, setbacks and new possibilities. Based in Nottingham, our work offers opportunities to build a greater sense of safety, choice and connection at each person's own pace.
Drawing on practices like trauma-informed yoga, somatic coaching, and community wellbeing programmes, we are creating compassionate spaces that reduce barriers to support. As a Community Interest Company, every step of our work is driven by social impact, reinvesting into communities across the East Midlands, including Nottingham, Loughborough and Leicester.
Meet Our Founder
Our founder, Donna Navarro, brings extensive yoga teaching, professional training and frontline experience, including supporting individuals affected by domestic abuse, substance use recovery, and the justice system. This expertise guides the trauma-informed services we provide at How We Heal CIC.
What We Offer
At How We Heal CIC, we offer trauma-informed, body-based workshops & programmes with psycho-educational components to support recovery, a greater mind-body connection and nervous system regulation.
Based in the East Midlands, we serve communities in Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby through the following services. Our services include specialist programmes for women, supporting recovery from the impacts of domestic abuse, PTSD and CPTSD.
Yoga for Trauma Recovery
Gentle, kind and compassionate trauma-informed yoga and restorative practices to reconnect with the body, reduce stress, and support the nervous system.
Somatic Coaching
One-to-one and group sessions helping people understand and shift patterns held in the nervous system, building resilience and confidence.
Partnerships & Collaborations
Working with charities, and funders to co-create trauma-informed programmes across Nottingham, Leicester, Loughborough and Derby.
Community Stories
"How We Heal CIC provided me with the tools and support I needed to begin my healing journey after domestic abuse."
Sarah
"The trauma-informed yoga sessions with How We Heal CIC have been integral to my healing process. I am grateful for their impactful support."
Clare
"The Solace for Survivors programme has been transformative for me. It's a safe and empowering environment for healing."
Rebecca
Our Approach
Supporting Healing in Communities Across the East Midlands
Trauma-Informed Yoga, Wellbeing Workshops & Group Programmes
Understanding Needs
Gentle, accessible one to one and group sessions designed to support nervous system regulation, release stored stress and restore balance.
We work with local organisations, funders, and community groups to deliver trauma-informed programmes that improve wellbeing across the East Midlands to those who need it most.
Community Support
Empowering Connection and Healing
Community-based sessions for resilience, connection, and recovery. Building supportive networks and reducing isolation.
Progress
Measuring Impact
We continuously measure the impact of our programs to ensure positive outcomes and sustainable changes for those on their healing journey.
Our Community Impact
Community-Led, Inclusive & Impact-Driven Across the East Midlands
Trauma Recovery & Wellbeing Across Nottingham, Leicester, Loughborough and Derby
At How We Heal CIC, impact is at the heart of everything we do. As a Community Interest Company, we are committed to reducing barriers to trauma recovery and improving mental health and wellbeing across the East Midlands — with a focus on communities in Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby.
Why Our Work Matters
Trauma affects not only individuals but also families and communities. Too often, people struggle to access affordable, trauma-informed support. By offering yoga for trauma recovery, somatic coaching, and community wellbeing programmes, we help people rebuild resilience, regulate their nervous systems, and find connection in safe and inclusive spaces.
Measuring Our Impact
We believe in transparency and accountability. That’s why we measure outcomes such as:
Increased access to trauma-informed wellbeing support in Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby.
-
Improvements in self-reported wellbeing and resilience.
-
Stronger partnerships with schools, charities, and community organisations.
-
Lasting improvements in community connection and mental health.
Working in Partnership
Our impact is made possible through collaboration. We work alongside local funders, grassroots organisations, and community leaders to co-design programmes that reflect the needs of the East Midlands. Together, we are creating sustainable change that benefits individuals, families, and whole communities.
By supporting How We Heal CIC, you are helping to build a region where recovery, resilience, and wellbeing are possible for everyone.
