COURSE OVERVIEW

THE MODULES

The Sacred Yoga Therapy Training is offered as 500-hour and 800-hour certificate programs.

Core Kundalini Medicine Modules KM1-KM6

THE 6 CORE MODULES GENERALLY TAKE PLACE OVER 6 CONSECUTIVE DAYS AND ARE OFFERED IN-PERSON (ONLINE UNDER SPECIAL COVID CIRCUMSTANCES), WITH THREE ONLINE FOLLOW-UP MEETINGS ALONG WITH A SMALL GROUP CHECK-IN.

KM1: DRAGON LINES

with Guru Dharam & Faculty

This is one of the foundation modules in the course and serves as an introduction to our concept of yoga therapy. We examine yoga philosophy and cosmology and introduce intake, assessment, therapeutic plans and ethics in yoga therapy. We study the elements through the lens of the TCM meridian system; we learn the emotional correlates to the elements, the course of the meridians, and some key acupressure/marma points. We apply this knowledge to deepen our understanding of how Kundalini Yoga practices work. We learn to balance the energies of the elements through kriya, meditation, pranayama and lifestyle.

This module includes:

• Introduction to Clinical Practice, Assessment & Intake

• Energetic Anatomy and Physiology

• The Law of Polarity

• The Law of Projection and Receptivity

• Energy Maps

• Elements

• Meridians

• Emotions and the Psychology of Organs

• Acupressure/ Marma points

• The Subtle Mechanics of Kundalini Yoga

KM2: SPHERES OF LIGHT & SUBTLE BODIES

with Guru Dharam & Faculty

This course is another foundational module in the program. We study several energetic models/frameworks that relate to the elements and subtle anatomy: the chakra system, the 10 Bodies of Kundalini Yoga, the doshas of Ayurveda, the vayus and the koshas. For each framework, we examine the physiology and psychology in harmony and disharmony. Students learn yoga therapy tools, such as asana, kriya, pranayama and lifestyle guidelines that can be applied within these frameworks. We also learn to analyze kriyas based on these systems. We introduce basic concepts from Ayurveda, approach the basics of 10 bodies numerology and present a brief overview of tongue reading and pulse analysis from both a TCM and Ayurvedic perspective. We work to develop our relationship with Shunia, the sacred space of inner silence.

This module includes:

• Kundalini Kriya Analysis

• Chakras, their physiological, emotional and psychological correlates

• Asanas and their effect on the Chakras

• Principles of Ayurveda, the Elements and the Doshas

• Psychological and physical profiles of the Doshas

• The 10-body model. How they function in health and disharmony

• Numerology and 10 bodies model assessment.

• Vayus and Koshas

• Developing your relationship with Shunia, the sacred space of silence

KM3: THE TWISTED HAIR

with Guru Dharam & Faculty

Prerequisites: KM1, KM2

A Twisted Hair is the title given to an indigenous person who has been sent from their clan - say Buffalo - to learn the Medicine of another clan - say Bear - and bring it back to share and weave into a Twisted hair or luminous thread of wisdom. 

In this module we bring together the frameworks that we have learned in previous modules and apply them to a series of common conditions – including stress, headaches, burnout, insomnia, ama/dampness, high and low blood pressure, depression, OCD and ADHD. We learn yoga therapy tools that are appropriate for each of these conditions. We examine the development and evolution of disease and learn how to set priorities in therapeutic plans. We address root and branch, the concept that the root cause of a condition differs from the symptomatology associated with the condition. Lastly, we learn to navigate the space where the model ends and the person begins, practically understanding the maxim "address the person, not the condition."

We have Kundalini - or another form of - Yoga as our base and we learn perspectives from Ayurveda and the wisdom of TCM to illuminate and deepen our Yogic wisdom and then apply it therapeutically. In this module we focus on the origin, causes and symptoms together with yogic approaches (yoga, meditation, lifestyle) for addressing the following conditions.

• Depression

• Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Burnout

• Pain

• Anxiety

• Insomnia

• Hyper/Hypotension

• Migraine/Headaches

• Ama/ Dampness/Phlegm

• High and Low Blood Pressure

• The development and evolution of

  disease

• Setting priorities in therapeutic plans

KM4: THE SACRED GEOMETRY OF KUNDALINI YOGA

with Guru Dharam & Faculty

Prerequisites: KM1, KM2

Kundalini Yoga can be described as a science of angles and triangles. In this module, we examine the mechanics underlying Kundalini Yoga so that we have a deeper understanding of how to apply it in a therapeutic process. This includes an analysis of the shapes and forms that underlie asana and kriya. We learn about the energetic triangles and the gates at the First, Fourth and Sixth Chakras. We examine the phenomenon of the navel point from various cultural viewpoints, including its foundational importance in determining stability of the physical, mental and emotional bodies. We compare and contrast the navel point with the Dan Tien and study different methodologies to center, cleanse and tonify the navel. We study the 6 climatic factors and learn how to recognize excess cold, heat, dampness, wind and dryness in the body. We discuss all of the above in relation to pathology and case histories. This module includes:

• The Navel Point in harmony and disharmony

• The Energetic Triangles

• The 3 Gates at the First, Fourth and Sixth Chakras

• The 6 Climatic Factors: HEAT, COLD, DRYNESS, DAMPNESS, WIND and SUMMER HEAT

• How to recognize these climatic factors in the body

• Yoga, meditation, pranayama, and lifestyle guidelines that address the climatic factors

• Choosing the right kriyas and meditations

** All of the above are examined in relation to pathology and to case histories.

KM5: THE SKY OF MIND

with Guru Dharam & Faculty

Prerequisites: KM1, KM2

In this module, we examine yogic and Western models of the mind and its function, including the structures and various states and conditions of the mind. We present Kundalini Yoga specific models of the mind and relate them to concepts from the wider yogic traditions and knowledge from modern neuroscience. We examine several disharmonious conditions of the mind, including cold depression, obsession, addiction and PTSD and discuss protocols for working with clients with these conditions. We introduce the energetic concepts of the ojas and the jing and compare them to the western phenomenon of cerebrospinal fluid. We present yoga therapy tools for maintaining mental balance and clarity, including kriyas, meditations, pranayama and lifestyle guidelines.

This module includes:

• The Yogic model of the Mind

• Cultivating mental equilibrium

• The 10 sections of your brain: their correspondences, function and interconnectivity

• Breath for optimizing your cognitive faculties

• The Twilight Zone of the Psyche

• The Ojas and the Cerebrospinal fluid

• Understanding the human body as a fully integrated multidimensional cognitive biosystem

• Yogic psychology in harmony and disharmony:

• Addiction

• Cold Depression

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

• Obsession

** All of the above are examined in relation to pathology and to case histories.

KM6: RED THREAD, BLACK HAT & WHITE LOTUS

with Guru Dharam & Faculty

Prerequisites: KM1, KM2, KM3, KM4

We round out the last of the 6 core KM modules with an examination of energetic breakthrough practices. We learn yogic tools and transformational practices that work with the Elements of Water, Fire, Ether and Metal. We address how to use affirmations effectively and how to retrieve and imprint a previous condition of health and connectedness with the Red Thread approach. We study archetypal spiritual symbols and learn how to work with them via visualization and application. We learn about gender-specific issues, including the menstrual cycle, fertility, menopause, andropause. We study life transitions according to the cosmic cycle: Infinity, Life, Death, Rebirth.

This module focuses on Spiritual Symbols, Affirmations, Red Thread Empowerments, Internal Feng Shui, Shakti & Shiva issues and more.

This module includes:

• How to achieve a metabolic shift in 24 hours

• Imprinting a thought form into the body

• Retrieving and imprinting a positive sensation or state of mind or a pattern of health into the present

• How to apply spiritual symbols through mental visualization, projection, and imprinting into the physical form

• How to evolve and transform using the Elements of Fire, Water, Ether and Metal

• How to use affirmations effectively

• A deeper understanding of gender-specific issues, including the moon-cycle

• Life transitions according to the cosmic cycle: Infinity, Life, Death, Rebirth

These modules are generally offered online, with the exception of Breathwalk (generally offered in-person, may be offered online).

AP1: ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY (100 hours)

with Denise Ferguson, Amanbir & Delia Tarlea

This module covers human anatomy & physiology in a way that is relevant for yoga teachers and yoga therapists. We study all the major systems of the body and their interrelationships, addressing common pathologies and disorders of these systems. We look at biomechanics and movement with an emphasis on maintaining healthy joints, bones, muscles and fascia. We address common complaints and injuries and contraindications for postures and practices. Aspects of myofascial, the nature of pain and pain drivers and research will all be addressed. The course is structured to enable students to learn via self-exploration, gaining knowledge and wisdom from listening, questioning and teaching to the group.

This module includes:

• Human anatomy and physiology, including all major systems of the body and their interrelationships

• Biomechanics and movement as they relate to the practice of yoga and the work of a yoga therapist.

• Contraindications for postures and practices

• Common pathologies and disorders of all the major systems

• Common complaints and injuries

• Aspects of myofascial, the nature of pain and pain drivers and research will all be addressed. 

PROF1 & PROF2:

PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT (30 hours)

with Paramananda and Harpriya

Prerequisites: KM1, KM2, PROF2

This course is taught in two 15-hour sections and includes:

PART ONE

This course sets the foundation for students to begin delivering yoga therapy in a clinical setting. We delve deeply into the ethics of yoga therapy and study the scope of practice and code of ethics of a yoga therapist. We address confidentiality, recordkeeping, boundaries and other issues pertinent to delivering yoga therapy. There is a strong emphasis on self-care as a practitioner. This course is intended to be taken before students begin their practicum.

(Part One is generally taught during a 3-day clinic weekend, which also includes some of the SuperVision hours)

PART TWO

This course sets the foundation for a professional practice of yoga therapy, including business planning, marketing, client care, and maintaining a robust referral network. Following on from the first part of this module, a strong emphasis is placed on personal practice and self-care as a practitioner as well as operating with sound ethics. The course emphasizes the importance of Continuing Professional Development and highlights pathways for students to continue developing after graduation. This course is intended to be taken toward the end of the course of study and is intended to support students as they graduate and set up their own professional practice as yoga therapists.

• Ethics of yoga therapy

• The scope of practice of yoga therapy

• Self-care as a practitioner

• Building a network for referrals

• How and when to refer to allied professional networks

• How to develop and maintain ongoing collaborative relationships with peers and other professionals in allied fields

• Business development

• Legal and regulatory issues pertaining to yoga therapy

• Strategies for Continuing Professional Development

DIV1: DIVERSITY, INCLUSION & CULTURAL APPRECIATION (10 hours)

with Vedya Amrita Bethel, Anjeli Placzek, Lindsey Roby, Kathy Haridev Latham and the Wahe Guru Family

In this course, we explore through up-to-date information, analysis and deep self-reflection and self-inquiry, how we can operate with inclusivity, empathy, tolerance, respect for all and a sense that "the other person is you." A panel of teachers addresses issues around BIPOC, LBGTQIA+, neurodiversity, colonialism, cultural appropriation & cultural appreciation. Yoga therapy students learn how to better understand the unique needs, strengths and challenges of various populations, so they can deliver yoga therapy with greater skillfulness and empathy. We also address how students can respect and honor the Indian origins of yoga.

INT1: INTEGRATION HOURS (6 hours)

with Guru Dharam

Prerequisites: Modules KM1-KM6, AP1, BIO1, PSY1, DIV1

Integration hours serve to meld the information presented in Modules 1-6 with biomedical and psychological information presented in other modules. We review the convergences and contrasts between Eastern and allopathic worldviews. We also address any questions arising from the material.

MENTORED PRACTICUM (180 hours)

with Faculty Mentors

Prerequisites KM1, KM2, KM3, PROF1

The practicum consists of:

• 150 hours of yoga therapy delivery as the lead yoga therapist.

• 30 hours of 1-1 mentoring with faculty mentor

Mentors provide:

• Individualized assessment, identifying strengths and areas for growth

• Advice and feedback on cases, assessment and therapeutic protocols

• Recommendations for reviewing material

• Suggestions for further reading and homework to develop your skillset