Objectives at a Glance

1. Ayurveda & Yoga Introduction

Become familiar with the foundational theory and purpose of Ayurveda and how this relates to yoga.

2. Doshas

Be familiar with Ayurveda’s perspective on doshas and how to use this knowledge to identify and correct imbalances that can lead to illness in body, mind or spirit.

3. Diet & Lifestyle

Become familiar with some foundational suppositions and considerations from an Ayurveda point of view regarding potential imbalances and dietary recommendations for each dosha.

4. Vata-Balancing Asana

Be prepared to teach poses in a way that optimizes vata-balancing.

Pitta-Balancing Asana

Be prepared to teach poses in a way that optimizes pitta-balancing.

6. Kapha-Balancing Asana

Be prepared to teach poses in a way that optimizes kapha-balancing.

Ayurveda & Yoga Intro

Lesson Overview

In this lesson, we introduce the philosophical foundations of Ayurveda and its relationship to yoga.

Objective

Become familiar with the foundational theory and purpose of Ayurveda and how this relates to yoga.

Description

Provide the original source and definition of Ayurveda. Explain how the goals of Ayurveda and yoga are related and describe more about the link between Ayurveda and yoga. Describe Ayurveda philosophy and practice in a nutshell. Explain how the doshas are experienced when they’re in optimal balance. Describe how the theory of elements is related to Ayurveda and explain the role of each. Give examples of each element in the outer world and in the human body. Note how knowledge of Ayurveda can support yoga teachers.

Doshas

Lesson Overview

In this lesson, we introduce Ayurveda’s perspective on doshas, the vital energies that make up the cosmos.

Objective

Be familiar with Ayurveda’s perspective on doshas and how to use this knowledge to identify and correct imbalances that can lead to illness in body, mind or spirit.

Description

Describe the primary principle of Ayurveda as it relates to individuals. Provide an overview of the three vital energies or “doshas” of Ayurveda. Explain how doshas relate to prakriti.  Explain the goal of Ayurveda treatment and the fundamental factors regarding individualizing treatments and practices. What elements and characteristics are associated with vata? With pitta? With kapha? Provide examples of yogic tools to balance each dosha. Explain how doshas may be said to relate to the stages of practicing an asana.

Diet & Lifestyle