Nervous System Work

Joni Cooke started her study of the nervous system in her thirties in an effort to navigate her own ADHD and the neurodivergence of her young son. Forced by her own chronic inflammation to investigate the nuances of her ventral-vegal system, she educated herself in the work of Steven Porges, Sarah Powers, and Irene Lyons. It increasingly became clear that many of her clientele with CPTSD, Concussions, ADHD or Autism could also benefit from this specialized work on the innermost level. Understanding that core change takes more than just shiatsu, Joni began designing yoga classes with breath work specifically for the nervous system. Being a Zen student for 30 years she was in a unique position to design classes and practices structured around helping students become aware of inner states, and to use mindfulness to better navigate “fight or flight” nervous system responses.

Joni unequivocably believes in being our own medicine and that meditation is foundational to self-inquiry work. Daily mindfulness inevitably results in embodiment and awareness, and combining this increased awareness with somatic healing is the way forward to wholeness and health. Passionately inspired by the potential for this trifecta (shiatsu, yoga, meditation), she runs a small but mighty meditation centre in the downtown east side where she hosts a daily meditation free of charge.