Module 1: Foundations of Yoga Therapy & Ayurveda

Spring 2025

Objective:
Establish a solid understanding of the principles of Yoga Chikitsa and Ayurveda as they apply to healthcare and well-being.

Introduction to Yoga Therapy (Yoga Chikitsa):

• The origins and scope of Yoga Therapy.
• Yoga as a holistic system for physical, mental, and spiritual health.
• Differentiating Yoga Therapy from common yoga teaching.

Ayurvedic Principles in Healthcare:

• Introduction to the Tridosha system (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and their relevance in health and disease.
• Dinacharya (daily routines) for practitioners and patients.
• Basic assessment skills: identifying Prakriti (constitution) and Vikriti (imbalances).

Foundations of Trauma-Informed Yoga:

• Understanding trauma and its impact on the nervous system.
• Core principles of trauma-informed care: safety, choice, and empowerment.
• Applying these principles in healthcare settings.

Healthcare Integration:

• Building a bridge between traditional Yoga Therapy and modern healthcare practices.
• Ethical considerations when working in healthcare environments.

Module 2 : Practical Applications in Yoga Therapy 

Summer 2025

Objective:
Develop hands-on skills in Yoga Therapy and integrate Marma Chikitsa techniques.

Yoga Therapy Tools and Techniques:

• Breathwork (Pranayama) for physical and emotional regulation.
• Therapeutic asana sequences tailored to specific conditions.
• Restorative yoga and Yoga Nidra for stress and trauma recovery.

Marma Chikitsa:

• Introduction to Marma points: theory, significance, and application.
• Using Marma points for pain relief, energy balance, and emotional health.
• Integrating aromatherapy and touch, aromapoint therapy with Marma practices.

Mindfulness and Meditation for Healthcare Settings:

• Techniques for mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).
• Guided meditation practices for caregivers and patients.
• Addressing compassion fatigue and burnout through mindfulness.

Case Studies and Applied Practice:

• Real-world scenarios of integrating yoga into healthcare.
• Partner practice and peer feedback.

Module 3: Specialized Protocols and Patient Care 

Fall 2025

Objective:

Equip participants with the knowledge and skills to address specific populations and conditions.

Yoga Therapy for Specific Conditions:

• Cardiovascular health: Pranayama, gentle movement, and meditation.
• Mental health: Anxiety, depression, and trauma recovery protocols.
• Chronic pain management: Somatic approaches and gentle movement.

Advanced Trauma-Informed Care:

• The polyvagal theory and its application in yoga.
• Identifying and responding to trauma triggers through autonomic mapping.
• Supporting resilience and post-traumatic growth.

Ayurvedic Lifestyle Guidance:

• Seasonal routines (Ritucharya) and diet for health optimization.
• Incorporating Ayurvedic self-care practices into patient protocols.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

• Communicating effectively with healthcare teams.
• Documenting and presenting yoga therapy outcomes in healthcare language.
• Understanding scope of practice and referral protocols.

Module 4: Integration, Practice, and Leadership

Winter 2025

Objective:
Empower participants to confidently apply their knowledge in real-world settings and take on leadership roles in promoting yoga therapy.

Clinical Practice and Practicum:

• Designing and delivering yoga therapy sessions in healthcare settings.
• Working with diverse populations: cultural and individual considerations.
• Documentation and case presentation for peer review.

Leadership and Advocacy:

• Becoming a Yoga therapy advocate in healthcare.
• Educating peers and patients about the benefits of Yoga and Ayurveda.
• Establishing referral networks and building a thriving practice.

Evaluation and Feedback:

• Self-assessment: reflecting on personal and professional growth.
• Peer feedback and community support.
• Refining techniques through supervised practice.

Final Integration Retreat:

• A weekend or retreat for experiential learning.
• Integration of all techniques through group practice and discussion.
• Celebrating completion and envisioning the path forward.