Ancient Wisdom

Oct 8, 2015 | Blog

Yoga Therapy is merging onto the yoga scene, showing up in hospitals, physical therapy centers, nursing homes and mental hospitals as yet another new form of yoga.  While there are many benefits of this new style of what can only be described as modern use of yoga asana (postures) as therapy, it is lacking in the ancient wisdom for which yoga therapy, long ago named, Yoga Chikitsa, was created more than 5,000 years ago.

Ayurvedic Yoga Chikitsa (yoga therapy) is not a new science by any means.  Its origins date back more than 5 millennia (or more) in the ancient texts of Ayurveda.  Ayurveda is often called the sister science of yoga as they share the same history in the Vedas, the same spiritual connection to the oneness of the universe, and the same philosophies such as that of Samkhya.

While modern yoga therapy is trying to find a place in a world of western minds, ancient Ayurvedic Yoga Chikitsa offers a time tested form of yoga therapy that utilizes not only asana as a therapy but also utilizes the mind body connection that is so paramount in the teachings of yoga and encompasses mediation, pranayama, mantra, mudra, diet, proper relaxation, dinacharya (daily routine), herbal therapy, color therapy, sound and aromatherapy, and more.  From a medical standpoint this (Ayurvedic) system of yoga therapy is more complete as it was born with the same core values and principles that are so unique to traditional yogic teachings.

The International Association of Yoga Therapists recognizes the origin of yoga therapy in the traditions of Ayurveda. “The practice of yoga therapy requires specialized training and skill development to support the relationship between the client / student and the therapist and to effect positive change for the individual.  Yoga Therapy is informed by its sister science, Ayurveda.  As part of a living tradition, yoga therapy continues to evolve and adapt to the cultural context in which it is practiced today…”

While the standards set forth by the regulating body of Yoga Therapists are extensive, this practice still should be considered, for the most part, yoga asana therapy, as most yoga therapists lack the necessary understanding of Ayurveda to a great degree and are unable to prescribe a whole system of healing, beyond yoga asana as a therapy.

An Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist is highly trained in yoga asana therapy, alignment, human anatomy and physiology, etc.  However, not only that, they also have additional training in yoga’s sister science, Ayurveda and they can skillfully apply the additional therapies beyond asana to bring about healing such as complete dietary protocol, herbal recommendations, lifestyle and schedule changes, cleansing techniques, mantra therapy, pulse diagnosis, daily routine, herbal therapy, and the list goes on and on.

While most modern yoga therapists that work alongside doctors and in hospitals have little or no medical or nutritional training, a qualified Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist has the necessary skills and education to make recommendations alongside the primary care givers beyond the scope of the asana as physical therapy.

While a focus on yoga therapy as asana therapy has its place, and is no doubt beneficial for the physical body.  Modern yoga therapists lack the fundamental understanding of a complete system of yogic healing, as described in Ayurveda, to bring about healing on multiple levels taking into account not only the physical body, but also the energetic body, the mental body.

While modern Yoga Therapy Training focuses primarily on yoga asana and alignment for rehabilitation, our unique course will focus on the science of Ayurveda and how to utilize the vast and sacred teachings set forth in Ayurveda and apply them as an Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist.  This is not simply a course that focuses on the physical body and its limitations but rather on the whole person as a complex spiritual being and teaches how to bring about healing on a multidimensional level.

At this time, Yoga Veda’s Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy Teacher Training track course is a one of a kind, 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training that offers a dual certification program with a focus on both Hatha Yoga as therapy and the vast teachings of Ayurveda.  Beginning at the 200 hour (foundation) level, students will be able to gain valuable insight in both the teachings of yoga asana and Ayurveda and can be proud to possess a dual education right from the start.

The foundation course in Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda does not merely scratch the surface of Yogic & Ayurvedic understanding, but dives in deep to both.

The initial 200 hour foundation course can be taken on its own, or as a track program to our full {Coming in 2016} 300 Hour Ayurveda Yoga Therapist Program (500 RYT).

Not only is this course one of the most complete courses on the market at this time, it is also one of the most affordable with flexible payment plans and financial aid also available.  At this time, enrollment for the 200 hour Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy foundation course is open for the 2015 & 2016 calendar.

Our Advanced Courses are going to begin in 2016 and you can expect a lineup of instructors that are the best in their fields of both Hatha Yoga, Ayurveda as well other esteemed contributors.

Space is limited in all of our courses, so early registration is essential to guarantee your space.  In order to maintain the integrity of the teachings, spaces are limited to no more than 16 students.

Visit our Teacher Training Page to view the full course details.

Have you experienced miraculous healing with Ayurveda & Yoga Therapy?  We want to hear about it!  Contact us or share your experiences in the comments section below!

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