300-hour Yoga Therapy course to obtain the 500h Master Yoga Teacher YAI-Certificate
While in India it has always been an intrinsic value of yogic practices to have a positive effect on the practitioner’s state of health, and apart from a few exceptions, until recent times, there was no particular need to develop a strand entirely dedicated to its therapeutic aspect. On the contrary, in the West, in recent decades, there has been a desire to give a certain impulse to this aspect, and today yoga therapy represents a valid synthesis between the ancient wisdom of the East and the most recent knowledge of complementary medicine, biomechanics and posturology of the West.
The complementary nature of yoga and integrative medicine is reflected in their common goal of releasing stagnant energy in meridian systems and their related organs or blood. While yoga provides a format for releasing blockage, Shiatsu, and meridian theory provide a framework for understanding which poses are best for a particular condition.
This course is suitable for all yoga teachers who want to deepen their knowledge and improve their ability to assist their students. It is also beneficial for therapists and medical professionals who want to supplement their existing knowledge with new insights. Additionally, experienced yoga practitioners can benefit from this course to enhance their practice.
The course is certified by the Yoga Alliance International (YAI) based in India.
Program
Basic introductory teachings
- Basic history of yoga and yoga therapy
- The 4 paths of yoga
- The 5 pillars of yoga
- Salutogenesis versus pathogenesis
- Stress and Physiology of Stress
- The energetical physiology of the human being: Nadis, Chakras, Koshas, Vayus, meridians, pancha mahabhuta, the three Gunas
- The importance of the muscular-fascia-organ-meridian system
- The importance of relaxation
- The importance of breath
- Basic Ayurvedic principles
- The concept of Prana, Qi or KI
- Basic concepts derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
- The physiology of emotions and the importance of emotional regulation
- The effects of Yoga on mental health and wellbeing
Evaluation of the client
- Observation of complexion
- Observation of the spine, back, and posture
- Assessment through “palpation” of the back and spine
- Assessment through anamnesis (questioning)
- Evaluation of Range of Movement (ROM) of the joints
- Evaluation through listening to the breathing pattern
- Evaluation through Pancha Koshas and Pancha Vayus principles
- Observation of the full appearance (behavior, speech, gestures, facial expression, etc.)
Bodywork for the different ailments and syndromes
- Basic Shiatsu techniques
- Applying Shiastu to the back for deep relaxation
- Marma points and acupoints for different ailments
- Meridian stretches
- Basic Do-in and auto massage
Modules
Module 1: YOGA THERAPY AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE FOR BACK PAIN
In this module, we will carry out an overview of the different conditions that affect the main joints of the body. We will consider:
- The relationship between emotional states, posture, and joints, the influence of posture on organ functions.
- The scapular girdle and the upper limbs, frozen shoulder, the rotator cuff
- The knee joint and how to treat it
- Inflammation, arthritis, and arthrosis of the main joints
- Common disorders of the musculoskeletal system
- Assessing the joint range of motion
- The main muscles that act on joints and how to balance them with Asanas
- Basic manual treatment for the major joints
Module 2: YOGA THERAPY AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE FOR JOINT DISORDERS
In this module, we will carry out an overview of the different conditions that affect the main joints of the body. We will consider:
- The relationship between emotional states, posture, and joints, the influence of posture on organ functions.
- The scapular girdle and the upper limbs, frozen shoulder, the rotator cuff
- The knee joint and how to treat it
- Inflammation, arthritis, and arthrosis of the main joints
- Common disorders of the musculoskeletal system
- Assessing the joint range of motion
- The main muscles that act on joints and how to balance them with Asanas
- Basic manual treatment for the major joints
Module 3: YOGA THERAPY AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE FOR THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
We know that intestinal function is one of the most important aspects of our body system. A healthy intestine generates a general feeling of well-being, promoting mental clarity and positivity. Correct intestinal function also ensures the supply of all the necessary nutrients, guaranteeing a fully functioning immune system.
- Relationship between stress and functioning of the gastrointestinal system
- IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and permeable bowel syndrome
- Gastritis, gastric ulcer, dyspepsia
- Indigestion, poor digestion
- Constipation, diarrhea
- Liver problems
- Diet and advice
- Obesity and other eating disorders
- Anaemia
Module 4: YOGA THERAPY AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE FOR PROBLEMS OF CARDIOVASCULAR AND RESPIRATORY HEALTH
Diseases of the heart are the leading cause of death in the West. Stress plays an important role in causing various types of imbalances and yoga can be of great benefit in helping sufferers regain a better quality of life. Cardiac circulation and the respiratory system are intimately linked to each other and therefore we can consider them as an integrated unit.
- Physiology of circulation and respiration
- Asanas for asthma and bronchitis
- Improving ventilation and air intake
- Stress and heart disease
- Hypertension and hypotension
- Palpitations and other cardiac disorders
- Varicose veins and peripheral circulation
- Contraindications and precautions
- Psychological factors involved
Module 5: YOGA THERAPY AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE FOR DISORDERS ENDOCRINE AND IMMUNE SYSTEM DISORDERS
Understanding the endocrine system and its relationship to the subtle energy bodies is of fundamental importance for the yogic therapist. In the modern world, we are witnessing an increase in disorders related to the malfunctioning of the endocrine and immune systems.
Dysfunctions of the thyroid, pituitary, and pancreas and autoimmune diseases are just some of the most common disorders we encounter increasingly often in our practice as teachers and therapists of yoga and Integrated medicine therapists.
- General functioning of the endocrine system, the main gland endocrine system and their relationship to the energy system of the chakras and the emotions
- Relationship between the endocrine system, immune system, and stress
- The main asanas are related to the various energy centers and main glands of the endocrine system.
- Contraindications and precautions
- Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis
- Thyroid malfunctioning
- Diabetes
- Yoga therapy for autoimmune diseases
Module 6: YOGA THERAPY AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE FOR THE NERVOUS SYSTEM, DEGENERATIVE DISEASES AND PAIN MANAGEMENT
The nervous system represents one of the great wonders of our body. This module may be one of the most interesting precisely because of the particular nature of the subject and its wide applications.
- Anatomy and physiology of the nervous system
- Sensation, senses, and proprioception
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Headaches and migraine
- Epilepsy
- Ear and eye problems related to the nervous system
- Yoga Therapy for neurological diseases
- Degenerative diseases: Parkinson’s, MS, ALS
- Yoga Therapy for degenerative diseases.
PAIN MANAGEMENT
Conventional medical approach to pain Effective alternative treatments for pain management
Yoga therapy for pain management
Module 7: YOGA THERAPY AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE FOR DISORDERS OF HEALTH OF MEN AND WOMEN
This module explores various problems affecting men and women, related to the physical and psychological functioning of the reproductive system and sexual dysfunctions.
- Physiology and the male reproductive system
- Yoga and integrated medicine for men’s health problems
- Physiology and reproductive system of women
- The menstrual cycle
- Perimenopause and menopause
- Disorders of the reproductive system
- Yoga therapy and integrated medicine for women’s health problems
- The urinary system
Module 8: YOGA THERAPY AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE FOR PATIENTS WITH CANCER
Cancer is one of the major health conditions in our modern world. This disease not only affects patients but also influences the family and people around in a very important way.
- Personal assessment of the client
- Taking care of the healthy part of the client’s body
- Yoga Nidra for tension and emotional release
- Possible contraindications for yoga therapy
- Lifestyle changes and advice for yoga patients
- Importance of pranayama, mantra, and regular sadhana for yoga patients practicing yoga
- Cooperation with the medical profession
Module 9: RESTORATIVE YOGA AND YOGA NIDRA IN YOGA THERAPY
Students will learn the basic skills, use, and effectiveness of yoga nidra in a therapeutic setting.
- Rudiments of yoga nidra
- Rudiments of Restorative Yoga
- The effect of yoga nidra on the nervous system
- Assessing the clients’ situation
- Guide the clients in preparing the space for the practice using all the indicated accessories
Module 10: PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS RESPONSES
In this module, we explore psychological stress responses such as depression, anxiety, insomnia etc., and how we can support our clients in dealing with them by introducing therapeutic asanas, pranayama, and meditation as well as the contraindications in this area.
We will address the physiology of emotions, the importance of emotional regulation, and the effects of Yoga on mental health and wellbeing
Module 11: PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA RESPONSES
In this module, we explore psychological stress responses such as adaption disorder, panic attacks, etc., and how we can help our clients manage them effectively with a therapeutic yoga approach along with the contraindications that need to be considered while introducing these practices.
Module 12: PATIENT/CLIENT-THERAPIST INTERACTION AND RELATIONSHIP-BUILDING
This module is about how to build trust and a growing relationship with your patient/client during a series of sessions. We explore different types of interaction, questioning, and levels of treatment that will form the basis for effective planning of your therapy.
