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800 hoursTotal duration
46 creditsCredit points
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Yoga Therapist

The Yoga Therapist is a certified professional qualified to work alongside a certified physician or certified Yoga Consultant to deliver Yoga Therapy for all disorders. The role spans assessment, pla…

About this course

The Yoga Therapist is a certified professional qualified to work alongside a certified physician or certified Yoga Consultant to deliver Yoga Therapy for all disorders. The role spans assessment, planning and application of evidence-informed yogic therapeutic management across musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, digestive, gynecological, endocrine, psychological and geriatric conditions.

Eligibility

For open candidates there is no eligibility criteria; any Degree holder. No age limit.

What you’ll learn

Describe detailed human anatomy and physiology across the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, excretory, endocrine, nervous, reproductive and special-sense systems
Explain the yogic and modern psychological view of personality, consciousness and mind-body intervention
Apply fundamental principles of Yoga therapy including the concepts of Adhi-Vyadhi, Trigunas, Pancha Koshas and Shuddhi Prakriyas
Interpret and apply the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, Patanjala Yoga Sutra and Yoga Vashishtha in a therapeutic context
Explain the physiological and psychological effects of Shatkriyas, Asana, Pranayama, Meditation, Mudra and Bandha
Demonstrate cleansing kriyas, Sukshma and Sthula Vyayama, Suryanamaskar, Yogasanas, Pranayama, Bandhas, Mudras and meditation practices
Design and deliver yogic therapeutic management with appropriate yogic diet for disorders across major body systems
Conduct yogic counselling and apply psycho-physiological approaches for adjustment and behaviour change
Perform anthropometric, physiological and physical assessments including clinical examination and muscle strength and flexibility measurement
Apply knowledge of biomechanics, COG/LOG/BOS and muscle physiology to the practice and evaluation of asanas

Highlights

Total of 800+ training hours carrying 46 credits, including a 100-hour contact program on Anatomy and Physiology200 marks balanced equally across Theory (100) and Practical (100)In-depth human anatomy, physiology and psychology integrated with yogic understanding of the body and mindTherapeutic management protocols for disorders across nine major body systems plus old-age conditionsApplication of classical texts including Bhagavad Gita, Patanjala Yoga Sutra and Yoga Vashishtha to therapyAssessment skills covering anthropometry, clinical examination, biomechanics and recording of ECG, EEG and GSR

Course syllabus

Marks Distribution
Total Marks: 200 (Theory: 100 + Practical: 100)

Theory

Unit No.Unit NameMarks
1Yoga and Human Body25
2Fundamental Principles of Yoga Therapy25
3Application of Yoga Therapy in Traditional Yoga Texts25
4Physiological and Psychological Effects of Hatha Yoga Practices25
Total100

Practical

Unit No.Practical WorkMarks
1Demonstration Skills30
2Teaching Skills20
3Evaluation skill20
4Application of knowledge20
5Field Experience10
Total100
Theory Syllabus

UNIT 1 — Yoga and Human Body

A. Anatomy & Physiology:
  • 1.1Musculo-Skeletal System: Muscle - Classification - Histology - properties of each type - distribution - Mechanism of muscle contraction (Brief) - neuromuscular transmission (Brief), ligaments, tendons, Skeleton-Bones-types, Structure & function, Spinal column. Joints - Types, Structure, Functions.
  • 1.2Blood and Immune System: Composition of blood corpuscles - R.B.C., W.B.C., Platelets. Plasma, Hemoglobin - Coagulation of blood and anticoagulants. Blood groups and its importance, lymphatic system, Immunity - types & mechanism.
  • 1.3Cardiovascular system: Anatomy of Heart and blood vessels - Innervations of heart - Properties of cardiac muscle - Control of cardiac cycle and circulation - Cardiac output - Blood pressure.
  • 1.4Respiratory System: Anatomy-Gross & Histological - Mechanism of Breathing, Exchange of gases, Pulmonary function tests-lung volumes - Control of respiration.
  • 1.5Digestive system: Anatomy - Gross and Histological - Mechanism of secretion of - Saliva, Gastric Juice, Pancreatic Juice, Bile, Intestinal secretion - Role of these secretions in digestion of food, Absorption and assimilation and formation of faeces.
  • 1.6Excretory System and temperature regulation: Anatomy-Gross & Histology - Functions of glomerule and renal tubules, Micturition and composition of urine - structure and functions of skin-Regulation of body temperature.
  • 1.7Endocrine System: Anatomy - Gross & Histological, Thyroid, Parathyroid, Supra-renal, Pituitary, Islets of Langerhans - Function of thyroid and parathyroid hormone, effect of hypo and hyperactivity on the body. Hormones of supra-renal and their action and effect of hypo & hyper activity on the body. Hormones of pituitary gland- its action and effect of hypo & hyper activity on the body. Role of insulin in glucose metabolism.
  • 1.8Special senses: Eyes Anatomy - Histology of retina, Corneal function, Physiology of vision & accommodation, Sense of smell - nasal mucosa, tongue, taste buds. Ear-Mechanism of hearing and function of semicircular canal.
  • 1.9Reproductive System: Anatomy - Gross & History of Male reproductive system - Spermatogenesis. Female reproductive system - Ovarian harmones, Menstruation, Pregnancy, Parturition, Lactation.
  • 1.10Nervous System: Anatomy - Gross - Cerebrum, cerebellum, Spinal cord. Histology - Nerve - structure and properties of neurons - Nerve - Action Potential - generation propagation - factors influencing. Classification of neurons and nerve fibers, Receptors and reflex arc. Functions and important connections of Cerebrum, Pons, Medulla, Thalamus, Hypothalamus, Cerebellum - Autonomic nervous system - Sympathetic and parasympathetic - anatomy & functions.
  • 1.11Homeostasis: The concept of homeostasis, Homeostasis, Regulatory systems of the body, Characteristics of control systems, Physiological basis of mind-body intervention.
B. Anatomy & Physiology:

Study of - cognitive processes. Higher mental processes, feeling and emotion, mental abilities and personality. A comparative study of total personality according to Yoga and Modern Psychology. Its Meaning, definition and nature of consciousness as described in Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagwad Gita, Yogasutra and Yogavashishtha; Spiritual and scientific approach to human consciousness. Yogic Method of elevation of human consciousness: Bhaktiyoga, Jnanyoga, Karmayoga, Mantrayoga, Ashtangayoga, Hathayoga.

C. Yoga and Diet:

Concept and types of diet in Traditional Yogic Texts; Concept of food and Nutrition and its components, concept of Health and Malnutrition, Assessment of Nutritional status, knowledge of Therapeutic Modifications of Normal Diet, Preparation of Therapeutic charts for special groups/patients, Role of Yogic diet in health and disease.

UNIT 2 — Fundamental Principles of Yoga Therapy

  • 2.1Concept of Yoga and Health in Indian Traditional Systems of Medicine i.e. Ayurveda, Naturopathy and Siddha Systems of Medicine, Utility and Limitations of these systems in relation to Yoga and health.
  • 2.2Yogic Concept of Health: Meaning and definitions, Concept of Adhi and Vyadhi, Role of Yoga in preventive health care – Heyamdukhamanagatam, Tapatrayas, Kleshas and Anatryas.
  • 2.3Concepts of Trigunas, Pancha-mahabhutas, Pancha-prana and Pancha Koshas.
  • 2.4Role of Yogic Positive Attitudes (Maitri, Karuna, Mudita and Upeksha) for Healthy Living, Concept of Bhavas and Bhavanas with its relevance in Health and well-being.
  • 2.5Concept of Aahara, Vihara, Aachara and Vichara.
  • 2.6Role of Shuddhi Prakriyas in preventive, promotive and curative aspects of Yoga Therapy -Health, Karma Shuddhi (Yama, Niyama), Ghata Shuddhi (Shat-karma), Snayu Shuddhi (Asana), Prana Shuddhi (Pranayama), Indriya and Mano Shuddhi (Pratyahara), Mana, Buddhi, Ahamkar and Chitta Shuddhi (Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi).

UNIT 3 — Application of Yoga Therapy in Traditional Yoga Texts

  • 3.1Bhagvadgita: Definitions of Yoga in Bhagavadgita and their relevance in Yoga therapy, Concept of Samkhya Yoga in Bhagavadgita, Significance of Bhagavadgita as a synthesis of Yoga, Concept of Sthita Prajna, stages and characteristic of it. Concept of Atman (Purusha) and Jivatman in Bhagavadgita. Concept of Paramatman (Parmeshwar or Purushottam) as described in Bhagavadgita, Concept of world (Jagat, Samsar) as described in Bhagavadgita, Psychotherapy concept of Bhagavadgita in various mental disorders like depression, anxiety etc, Significance of Yogasadhana, Karmayoga, Jnana Yoga, Dhyana Yoga and Bhakti Yoga in Bhagavadgita, Concept and classification of Ahara and its role in Adhyatma Sadhana as described in Bhagavadgita, Concept of Triguna in the context of Bhagavadgita, Importance of Bhagavadgita in day to day life.
  • 3.2Patanjala Yoga Sutra: Applications and Understanding of Patanjala Yoga & Personality Development. The nature of seer in pure state, Concept of Vrttis – Nature, classification, definition, method to control of chittavrttis (Abhyasa and Vairagya), Ishwarapranidhana– a means to attain Samadhi, Definition & quality of Ishwara; Chittavikshepa, Chittaprasadana and its associates, Samadhi and its classification, Sabijasamadhi, Speciality of Nirvichara, Rthambaraprajna, Nirbijasamadhi; Significance of Samyama and its applications, Parinamavad, Dharma and Dharmi, Parinamanyateva, Samyama on – Parinamatraya, knowledge of bhutaruta, Parachittajnana, Antardhana, Aparantajnana, Samyama on – Maitri, Surya, Chandra, Nabhichakra, Kanthakupa, Kaurmanadi, Murdhajyothi, Pratibha, Hrdaya, Swartha, Udana, Samana, and their benefits. Attainments of divyashrotra, Akashagamana, Bhutajaya, Animadi siddhi, Indriyajaya, Kaya jaya, Sarvajnatva, Concept of Kaivalya in Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Kaivalya–Introduction, Siddhi, Jatyantaraparinama, Nirmanachitta, Karma, Vasana, Smriti and Samskara.
  • 3.3Yoga Vashishtha: Concept of Yoga: Introduction and Highlights of Yoga Vasishtha, Definitions of Yoga and their relevance in Yoga Vasishtha; Concept of Mind: World is the projection of Mind; Manah Prashamanah upayah Yoga: Mind control through abhyasa (practice) and vairagya (detachment); Concept of Jnana: Jnana Saptabhumika, importance of knowledge and types of knowledge, Management of Mind and emotions-enhancing the power of discrimination (Viveka); Prana and Pranayama: Control of breathing; the story of Kakabhushanda, Understanding of the Concept of Adhi and Vyadhi; concept of Prana & Pranayama; Concept of Samadhi and Moksha: Good Association; Self Enquiry; Development of Satvaguna (Good virtues), Eight Limbs of Meditation.

UNIT 4 — Physiological And Psychological Effects Of Hatha Yoga Practices

  • 4.1Shatkriyas and Sthula and Sukhsamvyayam Kriya: Physiological benefits of sthula and sukhsamvyayam on human body in preparation of yogic practice. Knowledge of sthula and sukhshmavyayam for different parts of the body; An overview of diffusion, osmosis, active transport across cell membrane; significance of using salt during the practice of shatkriya; Tonicity of the solution such as hypotonic, hypertonic and isotonic solution and the impact of the same on physiology; Effects of kriya on GIT and Respiratory physiology; peristalsis and mechanism of action, Effect of Kriyas in encouraging the peristalsis; Opening and closing of sphincter; Role of Kriyas in smooth operation of sphincter; Mechanism of action of Kriya practices in the activation of vagus nerve, effect of Kriyas on gastric mucosa on digestive system; Development of negative pressure and the impact of sustenance of the negative pressure in body physiology.
  • 4.2Asana: Physiology of exercise, Asana - Types and Categories; Musculo skeletal system and mechanisms involved; Effect of Yogic practices in setting up the internal environment of the body, Mechanical influence of Yogasana; Psychosomatic mechanism; Mechanism of influence of six types of Yogasanas: stretching; pivoting; strengthening; inverted; pressing; equilibration, Reciprocal inhibition and innervations; Concept of energy expenditure and role of asana practice on energy expenditure.
  • 4.3Pranayama: Mechanism of respiratory system and gas exchange, Regulation of respiration, Psycho-physiological effect of Pranayama: changing of ratio of oxygen and carbonic carbon–dioxide in our body; enabling different groups of muscles in breathing; Pranayama as respiratory pump; Reflex impact over sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system; Role of Pranayama on lung function test. Role of Pranayama and other Yoga practices on compliance, Ventilation perfusion ratio, alveolar ventilation, dead space volume and minute ventilation, Neurophysiological mechanism of Kevala, Antar and Bahirkumbhaka.
  • 4.4Meditation: Different types of meditation its impacts on central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. Different types of meditation its impacts on cardiovascular system, respiratory system, nerve – muscle physiology. Meditation its impacts on relaxation of each and every system of body.
  • 4.5Mudra and Bandhas: Nerve reflexes; Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation; Effect of Bandhas on joint complexes; Central bandhas and co activation of opposing muscles in spinal joint complexes; Jalandharabandha effects neck joint complexes; Uddiyanbandha effects upper joint complexes; and Moolabandha for lower back joint complexes; Isometric muscle activation and Bandhas; Synergistic muscle activation during Bandha practices; Navadvara and their significance in yoga; Principles behind the practice of Mudras; Resting membrane potential; transmission of nerve impulse; significance of Neuro psychological lock and its impulse in body physiology; secretion of neurotransmitter in the brain; Role of mudra and its physiological functions of the body.
Practical Syllabus

UNIT 1 — Demonstrative Skills

  • 1.1Recitation of Hymns and Mantras
  • Concept and Brief introduction to Pranav and hymns
  • Recitation of Pranav and Soham japa
  • Recitation of Pratah-smaran, Dhyana mantra, Pranayama Mantra, Asana Mantra, Shanti Mantras.
  • 1.2Shatkarmas: Demonstrating ability of preforming shatkarma (Cleansing Process)
  • Vamandhauti, Vastradhauti, Dandadhauti
  • Neti (Sutra and Jal)
  • Kapalbhati, Agnisara
  • Nauli
  • Laghoo and Poorna sankhaprakshalana
  • 1.3Sukshma Vyayama, Sthula Vyayama and Suryanamaskar
  • Ucharan-sthal-tath-tavishudhi-chakrashudhi
  • Budhi tatha dritishaki vikasaka
  • Medha shakti vikasaka
  • Kapol shakti vikasaka
  • Griva shakti vikasak
  • Vakshasthal shakti vikasaka (i and ii)
  • Kati shakti vikasaka (i, ii, iv, v)
  • Jangha skati vikasaka (i, ii)
  • Pindali shkati vikasaka
  • Hridgati and sarvangpushti.
  • Yogic Surya Namaskar of BSY, Swami Dhirendra Brahmachari and its Variations.
  • 1.4Yogasanas
  • Standing Yogasana: Tadasana, Ardhchakrasana, Vrikshasana, Padahastasana, Veerbhadrasana and its variations, Garudasana, Parivrittatrikonasana, Parshakonasana.
  • Sitting Yogasana: Paschimottanasana, Vajrasana, Suptavajrasana, Vakrasana, Gomukhasna, Marichyasana, Ardhamatsyendrasana, Uttanmandukasana, Sasakasana, Ustrasana, Dandasana, Mandukasana, Kurmasana, Kukkutasana, Bhadrasana.
  • Prone lying Yogasana: Makarasana, Bhujangasana, Salabhasana, Dhanurasana.
  • Supine lying Yogasana: Uttanapadasana, Ardhahalasana, Halasana, Chakrasana, Saral Matsyasana, Matsyasana, Pawanmuktasana and its variations, Naukasana, Shavasana, Setubandhasana, Sarvangasana.
  • Topsy Turvy Yogasana: Sirshasna and its variation.
  • 1.5Pranayama: Knowledge and Demonstrated ability to perform the following practices
  • Breath awareness
  • Sectional breathing
  • Anuloma Vilom
  • Nadishodhana Pranayama, Surya Bhedi and Chandrabhedi Pranayama
  • Ujjayi pranayama and Bhastrika pranayama
  • Seetali Pranayama and Sitali Pranayama
  • 1.6Meditation: Knowledge and Demonstrated ability to Heal at the Physical Level, Mental level, Prana Level and Conscious level with below mentioned practices.
  • Antarmaun
  • Ajapa japa
  • Yoga Nidra
  • Dharna
  • Om Meditation, Vipasana and prekshadhyana
  • 1.7Bandhas and Mudras: Knowledge and Demonstrated ability to perform following practices:-
  • Jalandhara bandha, uddiyana bandha and mool bandha, Mahabandha.
  • Mahamudra, Bhairavi mudra, Yoni mudra, shambhavi mudra and shandmukhi mudra.
  • 1.8Yogic Counseling: Introduction to counselling, nature approaches and challenges; Approach to counselling- Attitude change towards Yoga through individualized counselling, Psychological & yogic method Tackling ill effects of conflict and Frustration; Yogic methods Yoga Psychology for Adjustment: Psychological, philosophical and Yogic counselling; the remedial measures; Action in relaxation-the secret of Karma Yoga; Psycho-physiological effects and health benefits of Pranayama, Shatkarma; Bandha and Mudra; Psycho-physiological effects and health benefits of Meditation.

UNIT 2 — Therapeutic Skills - Yogic Therapeutic management for various disorders

  • 2.1Role of Yoga practices on various Musculo-Skeletal disorders like Back Pain, Neck pain, Arthritis, Fibromyalgia and Muscular dystrophy; Role of Yogic Diet on Musculo-Skeletal Disorders.
  • 2.2Role of Yoga practices on various Respiratory Disorders like Bronchial Asthma, Bronchitis, Allergic Rhinitis, Sleep apnea & Sinusitis; Role of Yogic Diet on Respiratory Disorders.
  • 2.3Role of Yoga practices on various Cardiovascular disorders like Hypertension, Atherosclerosis / Coronary artery disease, Angina pectoris / Myocardial Infarction; Role of Yogic Diet on Cardiovascular disorders.
  • 2.4Role of Yoga practices on various Neurological Disorder like Migraine, Headaches, Cerebrovascular accidents, Epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, Hearing impairment; Role of Yogic Diet on Neurological Disorder.
  • 2.5Role of Yoga practices on various Digestive and Excretory Disorders like Dyspepsia, Hyperacidity, Peptic Ulcers, Constipation, haemorrhoids and Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Role of Yogic Diet on Digestive and Excretory Disorders.
  • 2.6Role of Yoga practices on various Obstetric & Gynecological Disorders like Menstrual Disorder (menstrual cramp, dysmenorrheal, pre-menstrual syndrome), Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS/PCOD), Pre-eclampsia or pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH), Menopausal discomfort (anxiety, irritability, insomnia, hot flashes.); Role of Yogic Diet on Obstetric & Gynecological Disorders.
  • 2.7Role of Yoga practices on various Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders like Diabetes Mellitus, Thyroid Disorders, Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome; Role of Yogic Diet on Endocrine & Metabolic disorders.
  • 2.8Role of Yoga practices on various Psychological and Psychiatric Disorder like Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Substance abuse; Role of Yogic Counseling Diet on Psychological and Psychiatric Disorder.
  • 2.9Role of Yoga practices on various old age problems like Spinal deformity, loss of coordination, imbalance, improper gait pattern, Stress, Alzheimer's disease, Stress, Depression and reduction of all physiological function; Role of Yogic Diet in old age.

UNIT 3 — Assessment Skill

  • 3.1Anthropometry measurements:- Weight, stature, eye height, Body Mass Index, Body Surface Area, Shoulder height, elbow height, head circumference, neck circumference, mid upper arm circumference, chest circumference, waist circumference, hip circumference, waist hip ratio, Measurement of fat percentage.
  • 3.2Physiological parameters and clinical examination: Knowledge of Clinical examination, heart rate, pulse rate and respiratory rate.
  • 3.3Knowledge of effect of Yogasana (lying, sitting, standing positions), suryanamaskar, Pranayama and Meditation on human body, Spirometry, knowledge of Reflexes, Measurement of strength of muscle. Measurement of flexibility. Recording of ECG, EEG, GSR and respiration.
  • 3.4Physical measurements:- Effects of exercise, cold stress and postural change on blood pressure and pulse rate, Measurement of strength and flexibility of muscle.
  • 3.5Understanding of muscles physiology with the help of model/chart and its practical applications in Asana.
  • 3.6Knowledge of COG, LOG, BOS in Asanas (in Sitting, standing, lying, balancing asanas).
  • 3.7Knowledge of Biomechanics of Yogic postures.

Frequently asked questions

How are the classes conducted?

Classes are live online and every session is recorded. If you miss a class you can watch the recording anytime and stay on track.

When do new batches start?

New batches open every month. You can book your seat for an upcoming batch and begin with the next cohort.

Is attendance required to be certified?

Yes — a minimum of 80% attendance is required to be eligible for certification, so please attend the live classes regularly. Recordings help you catch up on a missed session, but do not count towards attendance.

What certificate will I receive?

You receive a Yoga Certification Board (YCB, Ministry of Ayush) aligned certification, issued through a YCB-approved institute — recognised for teaching and further studies in yoga.

What is the refund policy?

Once your course has started, the fee is non-refundable. Instead of refunds we offer flexibility: if you can't continue for a while you can pause and resume with a later batch, and you can change your batch to a timing that suits you better. Just reach out to our team and we'll help you adjust.

Can I pause the course or change my batch?

Yes. If something comes up, you can pause and rejoin a later batch, or switch to a different batch or timing — just contact our team. There is no penalty for pausing or changing your batch.

Still have a question? Contact our team →  ·  Refund & cancellation policy