Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda

This course provides the history and philosophies that serve as the foundation for Ayurveda. Students will understand the basics of Ayurvedic theory, including the five elements and the doshas, and learn how these theories and principles support the practices of Ayurveda. Basic Ayurvedic anatomy and physiology, concepts of mind body layers, tissues, systems, and channels will be introduced, as well as relevant terms in Sanskrit. [3 credits]

This course introduces Ayurvedic perspectives on the structure and function of the mind, including states of balance and imbalance and the role the mind plays in creating health and wellness. Students learn how awareness of Ayurvedic concepts of the mind can support a shift in one`s approach to life`s challenges. The importance of Ayurvedic wellness techniques, including daily movement and breathing practices, mantras and meditation, are introduced. Prerequisite: AYUR-630. [3 credits]

Students learn and practice Ayurvedic approaches to food selection and preparation, understand how personalized food choices can support an individual`s health and wellness, and how food energetics are tailored to support the doshas. Students will be introduced to healing properties of culinary herbs, three primary non-culinary Ayurvedic herbs/compounds and the primary media used to deliver herbs for healing. Students will learn to safely and effectively teach others about Ayurvedic approaches to herb selection and food preparation. Prerequisite: AYUR-630. [3 credits]

Students will learn how to design individual plans of care based on the flow of the day and the flow of the seasons using Ayurvedic wellness practices. Limitations of the practices described here will be addressed, and the students will learn how to apply their studies to their own lives, and in wellness plans with others. Prerequisites: AYUR-630, AYUR-631 and AYUR-633. [3 credits]

This course reviews Western scientific perspectives on the mind and the brain. Topics include neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neuro-cognitive changes across the lifecycle. Pathological conditions of the central nervous system and psyche are discussed along with a detailed review of the neuroendocrine orchestration of the stress response. The interactions of the mind and body are explored in detail including discussion of practices that support health and wellness across the mind body continuum. Drugs that alter the mind and mood are reviewed. Prerequisite: ISCI-644. [3 credit]

This course addresses musculoskeletal anatomy and physiology, investigating kinesiology and biomechanics. Students will look at normal and dysfunctional movement, common imbalances in the body, how to analyze and assess these common imbalances that contribute to structural misalignment and potential injury and pain. Students will become practiced in postural analysis, structural assessment, and gait analysis. Students will become familiar with alignment and muscle function, as well as how to design and apply practices, such as yoga asana, to promote healthy structure and function. [2.5 credit]

This course provides a basic understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of the major organ systems of the human body, their control and regulation, and how these systems communicate with one another. Students will also explore key pathophysiological processes that contribute to illness and disease. The musculoskeletal system is covered extensively in other courses in the curriculum and will not be covered here. The course focuses on foundational processes and functions that are relevant for the practice of integrative yoga therapy. Students also learn introductory skills related to finding and discussing physiology-based research. [3 credits]

This course reviews Western scientific perspectives on musculoskeletal pathology. Major topics include the pathophysiologic basis of pain, inflammation, and structural remodeling. The course will also review the changes in body structure that occur as we progress through life. `Red flag` conditions (ie conditions requiring referral to Western medicine) and physical challenges that may be contraindications will be explored in detail. The course will review current research evidence and tools used in biomedicine to address these issues, including surgery and drugs, and discuss how these are used to alleviate suffering. Prerequisite: ISCI-643. [3 credits]

This course provides the history and philosophies of yoga traditions that serve as the foundation for Yoga Therapy. Specific traditions will be discussed in parallel with classic texts in this field. Yogic cosmology will be investigated, examining Vedic theories about creation and the major forces that govern life and change. Students will explore the basics of Ayurvedic theory including the five elements, the doshas, and the Ayurvedic clock. Basic yogic anatomy and physiology, including concepts of mind body layers and energetics (including koshas, chakras, nadis and marmas) will be introduced. Students will learn how these theories and principles support the practices of Ayurveda, as well as relevant terms in Sanskrit. While these concepts are derived from Hindu beliefs, they will be explored in relationship to their influence on the field of yoga. [2 credits]

Concepts of health and disease pathogenesis from a yogic perspective will be discussed. Concepts important to understanding the causes of behavior that lead to suffering will be explored through the principle teachings of yoga. The relationship between asana, pranayama, meditation, diet, and lifestyle will be addressed in the context of health promotion, disease prevention and disease management. The class will include both classic training and contemporary understanding of the principles that constitute a yoga lifestyle. Fundamental principles of Ayurveda will be incorporated to provide a complementary perspective. Prerequisite: YOGA-611. [3 credits]

This course introduces yogic perspectives on the structure and function of the mind, including states of balance and imbalance. Students learn how yoga practices can support a shift in one`s approach to life`s challenges. The effects of daily movement and breathing practices (asana and pranayama) on the mind will be explored. Forms of meditation, yoga nidra and Ayurvedic wellness practices that support meditation and relaxation such as mantras, yantras and mudras are introduced. [3 credits]

This course introduces yogic perspectives on the structure and function of the mind, including states of balance and imbalance. Students learn how yoga practices can support a shift in one`s approach to life`s challenges. The effects of daily movement and breathing practices (asana and pranayama) on the mind will be explored. Students learn forms of meditation, yoga nidra and Ayurvedic wellness practices that support meditation and relaxation as well as mantras, yantras and mudras along with their practical application. Prerequisite: YOGA-612. [2.5 credits]

Yoga practices can have a profound effect on health by leading to changes in vitality associated with shifts in the flow of prana. This course will specifically explore the concept of prana in conjunction with pranayama or traditional practices of breath work. Included in this course will be in-depth consideration of common breath pattern disorders, their effect upon health (with specific consideration of prevalent health issues and symptoms of over-breathing), and the appropriate practices of pranayama that can be taught to address these breathing patterns. Both the physical and subtle anatomy of the breath will be covered. Students will also develop their skills in leading breathing practices. [1 credit]

This course addresses musculoskeletal anatomy and physiology, investigating kinesiology and biomechanics in the context of the study of yoga and Yoga Therapy. Close attention will be paid to the integration of body structure, the functions of structure and their influence on total health. Students will learn to experience the flow of prana in the body and to address the energy systems of the body. Students will become practiced in structural assessment and will begin to address tailoring asana to the needs of the clients. (Co-requisite: Yoga 611 Theoretical Foundations for Yoga Therapy and Yoga 621 Biomedicine and the Body Structure). [2 credits]

This course reviews biomedical science approaches to body structure including the pathophysiologic basis of pain, the challenges of structural dysfunction and the body`s response to physical trauma. We will review tools used in biomedicine to address these issues, including surgery and drugs, and discuss how these are used to alleviate suffering. The course will also review the changes in body structure that occur as we progress through life. Red flag conditions (ie conditions requiring referral to Western medicine) and physical challenges that may be contraindications to specific asana will be explored in detail. The positive effects yoga can have in effecting change in the face of biomedical pathology will be introduced. [3 credits]

This course provides a basic understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of the major organ systems of the human body, their control and regulation, and how these systems communicate with one another. Students will also explore key pathophysiological processes that contribute to illness and disease. The musculoskeletal system is covered extensively in Yoga 621 and Yoga 622 and will not be covered here. The course focuses on foundational processes and functions that are relevant for the practice of integrative yoga therapy, within the context of a biopsychosocial health & wellness model. Students also learn introductory skills related to finding and discussing physiology-based research. [3 credits]

This course addresses the biomedical science of the mind and the brain. Topics will include neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neurological & cognitive changes across the lifecycle. Pathological conditions of the CNS, PNS and psyche will be discussed and including a detailed review of the neuroendocrine systems that orchestrate the body`s response to stress. Drugs that alter the mind and mood will be reviewed. The interactions of the body, breath, mind, intellect, and emotions will be explored in detail including discussion of practices that support health and wellness in these systems. [3 credits]

This course introduces teaching and therapy skills commonly used by Yoga Therapy practitioners. Students will learn the skills to assess educational needs, then design, implement, and evaluate educational programs for both individuals and groups. Critical aspects of the relationship between the practitioner and the client will be addressed. Discussions will include scope of practice and boundaries, including boundaries used in discussions of sexuality, religion and other issues relevant to the practice of Yoga Therapy. This 1.5 credit course includes 15 didactic hours and 22.5 hours of independent study overseen by course faculty. Prerequisite: YOGA-698. [1.5 credits]

This course continues the work begun in Yoga 634 Therapeutic Relationship and Client Education I (please see description above). This 3 credit course includes 30 didactic hours and 45 hours of independent study overseen by course faculty. Prerequisite: YOGA-634. [3 credits]

This series of courses (YOGA 640, 642, 643) examines approaches to Yoga Therapy, including fundamental philosophies, concepts that guide development of a treatment plan, and tools and techniques used to design practices for specific conditions and special client populations. Experienced practitioners demonstrate and discuss the application of diverse approaches in Yoga Therapy. This course focuses on the therapeutic applications of yoga therapy for common physiological conditions (e.g. cardiac care, oncology) that have a functional origin. Students will also learn specific practices to support clients that have been referred for yoga therapy. [2 credit]

This series of courses (Yoga 640, 642, 643) examines approaches to Yoga Therapy, including fundamental philosophies, concepts that guide development of a treatment plan, and tools and techniques used to design practices for specific conditions and special client populations. Experienced practitioners demonstrate and discuss the application of diverse approaches in Yoga Therapy. This course (Yoga 642) focuses on the therapeutic applications of yoga therapy for chronic pain and neurological disorders. Examples of specific issues that will be addressed include low back pain, fibromyalgia, migraine headache and Multiple Sclerosis. Special emphasis will be on developing adaptive yoga practices for clients with limited mobility. Prerequisite: YOGA-640. [2 credit]

This series of courses (Yoga 640, 642, 643) examines approaches to Yoga Therapy, including fundamental philosophies, concepts that guide development of a treatment plan, and tools and techniques used to design practices for specific conditions and special client populations. Experienced practitioners demonstrate and discuss the application of diverse approaches in Yoga Therapy. This course (Yoga 643) focuses on the therapeutic applications of yoga therapy for mood regulation and stress management with an emphasis on tools and techniques that help clients manage stress and build resilience. Special emphasis will be given to specific mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Prerequisite: YOGA-642. [2 credits]

During this clinic practicum, students conduct Yoga Therapy sessions under the mentorship of clinic supervisors. Students will utilize the medical literature to gain a deeper understanding of their client's health. Principles learned in all previous and concurrent courses will be applied in the clinic practicum. Students will complete 45 hours of supervised clinic practice during this practicum. Prerequisite: YOGA-698. [1.5 credits]

This course is a continuation of Yoga 644 Mentored Yoga Therapy Student Clinic I. Students will have the opportunity to work with clients individually in the Natural Care Center at Maryland University of Integrative Health, off-site with partner institutions and in community settings. Prerequisite: YOGA-644. [1.5 credits]

This course continues the work in YOGA 645 Mentored Yoga Therapy Student Clinic II. Prerequisite: YOGA-645. [ 2 credits ]

In this course students will learn to document the care of individual clients in alignment with standardized case reporting guidelines. Students will be introduced to the rationale for medical case reports and learn to use the guidelines for enhancing the quality and transparency of case reports. Students will present their own case reports and participate in the inquiry and analysis of fellow students` cases. Discussion will focus on the analysis of clinical decision making and the application of critical thinking. [1.5 credits]

In this course students will learn to document the care of individual clients in alignment with standardized case reporting guidelines. Students will be introduced to the rationale for medical case reports and learn to use the guidelines for enhancing the quality and transparency of case reports. Students will present their own case reports and participate in the inquiry and analysis of fellow students` cases. Discussion will follow on the analysis of clinical decision making and the application of critical thinking. Prerequisites: YOGA-645 or YOGA-635. [2 credits]

This course covers the history of yoga teachings and philosophy that informs the yoga therapy framework and how yoga relates to modern biomedical and mind-body scientific knowledge. This includes the yogic perspective on health and disease; on the mind and how it contributes to suffering and illness; and mind-body connection. Additionally, the course allows students to begin to identify and apply appropriate tools and techniques of yoga within their licensed scope of practice. [ 3 credits ]

This course addresses professional ethics for the practice of Yoga Therapy in addition to addressing best professional practices. Legal, regulatory and business issues will be addressed, as well as relationships to peers, mentors, organizations and the general yoga community. Personal and professional development will also be discussed. This material will be included on the comprehensive exam that includes all material for the first year of the program. [1 credit]

This course is a continuation of Yoga 653 Professional Practices I and is designed to prepare students to create a successful practice upon graduation. Special emphasis will be given to practice management, including developing an entrepreneurial mindset, business planning, how to effectively market using social media, communicating with stakeholders and the legal and regulatory issues related to operating as a professional. [1 credit]

This course covers yogic practices and philosophy with a focus on promoting health and well-being. The interactions between body, breath, mind, intellect, emotions and spirit in health and well-being will be emphasized from both yogic and Western scientific perspectives. Students learn a range of yogic tools and techniques for common conditions along with relevant precautions and contraindications. [ 3 credits ]

This course outlines appropriate professional practices of yoga (including yama and niyama, asana, pranayama, meditation, relaxation) for use by the licensed healthcare provider. Professional skills and practices such as collaboration, communication, self-awareness and referrals are addressed. Prerequisite: YOGA-660. [ 3 credits ]

In this course students apply and synthesize their learning by delivering an appropriate integrative plan of care within their licensed scope of practice. The student creates case reports from their licensed practice that demonstrate the integration of the yogic principles and practices learned. Opportunities for collaboration and referral are identified. Prerequisite: YOGA-670. [ 3 credits ]

The final exam that covers all material in year 1. Prerequisites: YOGA-614, YOGA-615, ISCI-613, IHM-662. [ 0 credits ]