How to become a Yoga Therapist

A Yoga therapist is a one who conducts classes with groups of people which involves yoga poses and meditation. A Yoga therapist guides students to "connect to breath" while conducting a series of mental and physical exercises. Yoga therapist must have knowledge of philosophy, history and ethics of yoga. The Yoga therapy is responsible for performing yoga using the correct terminology, poses in precise alignment and safely guiding students through the flow of the practice. Yoga therapy also implement mindful meditation and Chakra system. A yoga therapist must possess communication and interpersonal skills in order to build relationships and to lead yoga sessions.

The word yoga is derived from Sanskrit word “yuj” which means “to yoke (join)” the spirit and physical body together. Yoga teaches a person to experience inner peace by controlling the body and mind. Yoga therapist guides in breathing exercises, yoga postures, meditation, and guided imagery to improve physical and mental health. The focus of yoga therapists is integration of body, mind, and spirit. Yoga therapy is a treatment for depression and anxiety.

The roles and responsibilities include:

• To design lesson plans and courses
• To analyze the fitness level.
• To perform and demonstrate all yoga exercises to participants.
• To design comprehensive and safe yoga programs for various participants.
• To monitor participant performance.
• To recommend different yoga exercise.
• To lead and conduct yoga classes.
• To demonstrate techniques and practice.
• To possess the ability to move energy through the body.
• To engage in administrative duties

The skills required to become a yoga therapist includes good communication skills, interpersonal skills, skills to motivate others to believe in yoga, strong determination must have a will power to practice “asanas” or yogic positions, must have art of teaching the Vinyasa Flow, contain knowledge of the pranayama, chakra system, mantra and mindful meditation, good business and administration skills, must have ability to work after-hours, on weekends and public holidays, as needed.

Yoga Therapists can find opportunities in various industries where there is a demand for holistic approaches to health and wellness. Here are some industries that are open for Yoga Therapists:

1. Healthcare: Yoga Therapists can work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and clinics. They can collaborate with medical professionals to integrate yoga therapy into treatment plans for chronic pain, mental health disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory ailments.
2. Wellness and Spa: Yoga Therapists can work in wellness retreats, spas, and wellness centers, offering individualized yoga therapy sessions, relaxation techniques, stress management, and mindfulness practices to promote overall well-being.
3. Fitness and Yoga Studios: Yoga Therapists can collaborate with fitness centers and studios to provide specialized yoga therapy classes or one-on-one sessions tailored to address clients' specific physical, mental, or emotional needs.
4. Corporate Wellness Programs: Many organizations offer wellness programs to promote employee health and productivity. Yoga Therapists can be involved in corporate wellness initiatives, providing yoga therapy sessions, stress reduction techniques, and mindfulness practices to support employee well-being.
5. Mental Health and Rehabilitation: Yoga Therapists can work alongside mental health professionals in psychiatric hospitals, addiction treatment centers, or rehabilitation facilities. They can incorporate yoga therapy techniques to support individuals in managing anxiety, depression, addiction, and other mental health challenges.
6. Education and Research: Yoga Therapists can contribute to research studies exploring the efficacy of yoga therapy interventions for specific health conditions. They can also teach yoga therapy courses or contribute as faculty in academic institutions or yoga therapy training programs.
7. Senior Care and Assisted Living: Yoga Therapists can work in senior care centers, retirement communities, or assisted living facilities, providing gentle yoga practices, mobility exercises, and mindfulness techniques to enhance the well-being and quality of life of older adults.
8. Community and Non-Profit Organizations: Yoga Therapists can collaborate with community centers, non-profit organizations, or social service agencies to offer yoga therapy programs to underserved populations, such as low-income communities, individuals with disabilities, or those recovering from trauma.