Correctional centers in Arkansas are using innovative approaches to reduce stress.

The Prison Yoga Project is operating six programs for adults in Arkansas. And two programs at Camp Joseph National Guard Headquarters provide yoga classes to teen boys participating in the Civilian Student Training Program.

The Prison Yoga Project uses trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness practices to help incarcerated people process stress and trauma.

Executive Director Nicole Hellthaler says they teach participants how to regulate their emotions and actions.

"We’re trying to help folks recognize those states of, when their body is in fight or flight, or when it is in rest," she said, "and give them the tools so that they can more frequently be in a restful state, as opposed to the state that trauma often leaves us in."

Hellthaler lives in Arkansas and facilitates classes for both adults and teens. The global program operates in 28 states across the United States and in 15 countries – a total of 220 correctional facilities worldwide.

The organization launched a graphic novel in 2025 titled “This Time I Choose,” which follows two teens through the legal system. Hellthaler said the characters were inspired by teens she has worked with.

"Instead of being sentenced to jail or to prison, they're sentenced to yoga," she said. "They have to show up at this community center and practice yoga. And so the story follows them through that. It also teaches teens about their nervous systems as well."

More than 90% of incarcerated people will be released. Hellthaler said healing and self-rehabilitation will lead to safer, stronger communities.

"Over time, they start to realize the way that they are regaining control over their body and their emotions," she said, "and [they are] able to access a state of feeling better. They can really start to see their life transform."

Source: Public News Service