Yogic Studies
If you are seeking ways to broaden and deepen your experience of life, Yogic Studies is for you. It will give you the tools and the knowledge to further that journey. In Yogic Studies, the vast and vibrant field of yoga is entered.
If desired, you may complete the Yogic Studies modules without progressing to the Teacher Training modules. You will receive a Satyananda Yoga Academy certificate for each completed module. However, to receive the Diploma of Satyananda Yoga Teaching qualification, you need to complete the Teacher Training modules.
NOTE: If you have a physical or psychiatric disability that precludes you from undertaking core yogic practices in the course, you may be unable to complete the Teacher Training modules. However, in most cases, you would be able to complete Yogic Studies with some modifications.
Yogic Studies Modules
Yogic Studies 1a: Year 1 Semester 1 (18 weeks)
Yogic Studies 1a is the foundation module, building a basic understanding of the multiple branches of yoga. You are systematically introduced to basic yoga practices and to yogic lifestyle.
Practical expertise is developed through working with others to acquire skills appropriate in a yoga centre: computer literacy, kitchen work, office work, gardening and housekeeping. You learn the occupational health and safety requirements for each area of work.
Yogic Studies 1b: Year 1 Semester 2 (18 weeks)
Pre-requisite: Yogic Studies 1a
Yogic Studies 1b develops and expands on the learning in Yogic Studies 1a. Key areas of exploration are: the dimensions of human experience (koshas), energy flow (prana and nadis), the workings of the mind and the nature of subtler spiritual experience. It includes a progressive development and investigation of asana, pranayama and meditation practices. The practical application of skills and yogic awareness is continued in the performance of tasks related to functioning of a yoga centre.
Yogic Studies 2a: Year 2 Semester 1 (18 weeks)
Pre-requisite: Yogic Studies 1b
Yogic Studies 2a takes you deeper into the theory and practice of yoga, with an emphasis on chakras and philosophy. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are explored in depth.
Further training in yoga workplace-related areas is included.
Yogic Studies 2b: Year 2 Semester 2 (18 weeks)
Pre-requisite: Yogic Studies 2a
Yogic Studies 2b completes the basic theory and practice of yoga with further exploration of the traditional yogic texts, which includes the Bhagavad Gita. This theory is interwoven into yogic lifestyle and ashram living. There is further development in understanding the concepts involved in yogic philosophy, yogic psychology and yogic physiology (chakras and nadis)
| Yogic Studies Subjects |
Asana: |
Asana includes practice and understanding of the postures used in Satyananda Yoga, including those unique to the tradition such as the Pawanmuktasana™ series. While the understanding and practice of asana is important in Yogic Studies, physical prowess is not a requirement, nor as critical as it may be in other traditions. However, over the duration of the course, you will have the opportunity to become more adept in the practice of asana. |
Pranayama: |
Like asana, this subject is progressively developed over the duration of the course. Emphasis is given to learning, understanding and experiencing a range of balancing, tranquilising and vitalising practices. Pranayama practices are a strong feature, both of the Satyananda style and this course. |
Shatkarmas: |
An introduction to the core cleansing practices of Hatha Yoga and the integration of these practices into one’s daily life. |
Yoga Nidra™: |
This practice is unique to Satyananda Yoga. It is a relaxation technique with clear benefits for today’s lifestyle, but its effects go much deeper. As a pratyahara practice, it provides a gentle way of integrating subconscious material. For this reason, Yoga Nidra™ is thoroughly explored and expanded over the duration of the course. |
Meditation: |
Explores a range of meditation practices, with recognition that different personality types have affinity with different meditation practices. |
Mudra and Bandha: |
Practice in a range of gestures and techniques for harnessing and redirecting energy and awareness. |
Yogic History Philosophy and Culture: |
Swami Niranjanananda has said “philosophy without practice is meaningless, but practice without philosophy is equally futile”. Consequently, wherever concepts are taught, practices embodying these concepts are introduced and vice-versa. To understand yoga and its application to today’s world, it is important to know its cultural origins and underpinning philosophies. |
Yogic Physiology: |
An examination of the subtle dimensions and energy systems of the human organism from a yogic perspective. The understanding of nadis, prana and chakras fall into this category. |
Yogic Psychology: |
Covers the yogic understanding of consciousness, awareness, mind, perception & cognition, personality, intellect and emotion. It provides practical tools for managing the mind and examines yogic views and treatments for mental problems, as well as the therapeutic effects of yoga practices and yoga therapy. |
Anatomy & Physiology: |
Gives an analysis of the major structure and systems of the human body and the effect of yogic practices on them. |
Yogic Nutrition: |
An examination of traditional and contemporary yogic diet. |
Introduction to Ayurveda: |
An introduction to core concepts of Ayurvedic medicine, the wholistic Indian medical science. Focus is on diet, lifestyle and its relationship to yoga. |
Social Applications of Yoga: |
Knowledge of the application of yoga in various settings and yoga’s wholistic approach to thesesituations |
Integration of Yogic Principles: |
Yogic theory and practice are synthesised into life skills through living in an ashram environment. |
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