Yoga, from the Sanskrit yuj, meaning “to join” or “to unite”, is a practice for optimizing the health of the body and the mind. It includes a variety of activities, including postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), meditation (dhyana), and lifestyle practices that are intended to lead the practitioner to a profound integration of body, mind, and spirit.
Yoga Therapy is the application of these activities in a therapeutic context. The goal, of which, is to manage suffering or facilitate healing among those practitioners with physical or mental challenges. Yoga Therapy is intended to compliment Western medicine, not serve as an alternative.
Students in this program will explore the principles of yoga and their therapeutic application, develop skills for assisting clients with health challenges, learn to work with licensed medical professionals and in clinical settings, and come to value the professional and ethical standards of Yoga Therapy as outlined by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT).
Learning Opportunities
Training in Yoga Therapy for LMU Graduate Yoga Studies candidates will be offered in collaboration with AlcheMē (Be the Change Yoga Studio) in Irvine, CA. Entering students will complete the following LMU continuing education courses cross-listed with AlcheMē:
Yoga Therapy for Musculoskeletal Ailments
Start date: August 26, 2023 – March 26, 2024
Directors: Tess O’Hern and Cheri Dostal Ryba
Course Description: This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the application of therapeutic tools to address conditions associated musculoskeletal system, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and the skeleton. The focus will be on studying how conscious biomechanical actions influence unconscious physiological responses. Students will be able to assess musculoskeletal ailments, chart progress using SOAP notes, read and interpret doctor’s reports, synthesize intake and assessment, and apply customized practices for specific musculoskeletal conditions.
Yoga Therapy for Mental Health and Special Populations
Start date: October 7, 2023 – June 8, 2024
Directors: Katie Allen and Megan McCarver
Course Description: This module focuses on the mental/emotional body, evaluating and understanding the multi-dimensional nature of the human mind. Course content will explore the underlying, correlating factors and side effects of conditions such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and trauma, as well as how to assess and treat such conditions with yogic practices. Instruction will also focus on how to work with specific populations, including adolescents, clients with disabilities, geriatric clients, active seniors, family members, and caregivers, and provide specific training to build collaborative relationships with social workers and allopathic doctors.
Ready to Register? Set up a one-on-one appointment with Program Administrator, Iyanna Newborn; or contact BCLA Yoga Studies by phone (310) 258-5435, or email: YogaStudies@lmu.edu.
General Information
Course and program requirements, schedules and tuition are subject to change; and additional fees may be incurred for books and materials. Click here to review all policies prior to enrollment. For additional information, contact BCLA Yoga Studies at (310) 258-5435 or YogaStudies@lmu.edu.
Please note: because this is a fully online program, enrollment eligibility is dependent on place of residency. Please review State Authorization before enrolling.