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Laura Goellner E-RYT, C-IAYT

Welcome to the APPLIED YOGA ANATOMY Series

This is a multi-part series that takes a deeper dive into the

In this segment of the Series, our focus is the Language of Anatomy & Movement in Asana Practice, how that impacts lesson planning, sequencing poses, how to critique your classes and how to analyze joint movement in yoga poses to adapt to YOUR student's needs.

Topics covered in THIS segment of Applied Yoga Anatomy include: 

- Why Yoga Teachers need to understand the Language of Anatomy & Movement

- Etomology of Anatomy Language (the greek/latin roots)

Read more

Welcome to the APPLIED YOGA ANATOMY Series

This is a multi-part series that takes a deeper dive into the

In this segment of the Series, our focus is the Language of Anatomy & Movement in Asana Practice, how that impacts lesson planning, sequencing poses, how to critique your classes and how to analyze joint movement in yoga poses to adapt to YOUR student's needs.

Topics covered in THIS segment of Applied Yoga Anatomy include: 

- Why Yoga Teachers need to understand the Language of Anatomy & Movement

- Etomology of Anatomy Language (the greek/latin roots)

- The Terms of Body Position and Laterality (limb movement)

- The Terms of Location & Relationship (the foundation for studying the muscles)

- The 3 planes of movement

- The terms of Joint Movement + a 3D look at the skeletal system movements

- Anatomy informed Lesson Planning

- Smart sequencing with Pose Analysis for joint action

- How to critique your own classes to improve your anatomy based teaching skills

Why is this Anatomy course special?

-I incorporate my 15+ years of experience as a yoga teacher & therapist

- We utilize the Complete Anatomy App for a 3D view of the joint movements

 - It focuses on one direct application to lesson planning, sequencing and pose analysis

- I utilize a variety of teaching techniques to keep you engaged.

- when you study anatomy online you can always go back and re-watch segments for clarification...no missed info.

- once you purchase the course- this information is yours forever.

Continuing Education Credits: (CEUs)

Upon completion of the course you will receive a certificate. This can be used to apply for CEU credits

- Registered Yoga Teachers with Yoga Alliance (YA) - I am a Yoga Alliance YACEP (Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Providor)

- Certified Yoga Therapists with the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT)

Questions?

Reach out to me on Udemy

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Speaking the language of anatomy
  • Lesson planning on the 3 planes of movement
  • Analyzing the joint motions of a yoga pose
  • How to self critique your classes to improve the balance and variety of joint motions

Syllabus

The 3 Planes of Movement in Sun & Moon Salutations
Introduction
Meet Your Teacher
Continuing Education Information
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides continuing education credits for Registered Yoga Teachers with Yoga Alliance and Certified Yoga Therapists with the International Association of Yoga Therapists, which may help them maintain their credentials
Focuses on the application of anatomy to lesson planning, sequencing, and pose analysis, which are essential skills for effective yoga instruction
Utilizes the Complete Anatomy App for a 3D view of joint movements, which can enhance understanding and visualization of anatomical concepts
Explores the etymology of anatomical terms, providing a deeper understanding of the language of anatomy and its historical roots
Requires learners to have access to the Complete Anatomy App, which may require a separate purchase or subscription
Teaches anatomy informed lesson planning, which may help yoga teachers create more effective and safe classes for their students

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Reviews summary

Applied yoga anatomy: language and movement

According to learners, this course offers a highly valuable and comprehensive introduction to the language of anatomy and movement specifically for yoga teachers. Students praise the instructor's expertise and clear teaching style, making complex concepts easy to understand and apply. The use of the Complete Anatomy App is highlighted as a significant strength, providing helpful 3D visuals. Reviewers frequently mention the course's practical application to lesson planning and sequencing, helping them teach more effectively and safely. While some found the pace fast in parts, the ability to revisit lectures is a major benefit. Overall, it is seen as a foundational course that significantly enhances anatomical understanding for yoga professionals.
Learning online allows re-watching complex parts.
"Being able to pause and re-watch the segments, especially the joint movement labs, was invaluable."
"Some concepts were dense, so revisiting the lectures really helped them sink in."
"I appreciated that I can go back and review the material anytime I need a refresher."
Provides a strong basis for further study.
"This is a great starting point for yoga teachers who need a better grasp of anatomical language."
"It lays a very solid foundation that I can build upon in future studies."
"The course helps bridge the gap between anatomical terms and practical yoga application."
3D visuals enhance understanding significantly.
"The use of the Complete Anatomy app brought a whole new dimension to learning the joint movements."
"Seeing the movements in 3D really solidified my understanding of the joint actions."
"The 3D labs using the app were incredibly helpful and a unique aspect of this course."
Instructor is knowledgeable and explains well.
"The instructor has a great way of explaining concepts, and her knowledge is evident."
"The teacher is absolutely brilliant at bringing clarity to what is often a confusing subject. I loved her approach."
"Thank you to the teacher for sharing your knowledge in such a practical and easy-to-understand way!"
Helps improve lesson planning and sequencing.
"This course gave me practical tools to better sequence my classes and analyze poses."
"Understanding the language helps me plan classes that are balanced and safe for my students."
"I feel much more confident critiquing my own teaching and incorporating anatomy effectively."
Concepts are clear and applicable to teaching.
"This course did a wonderful job of taking the complex information regarding anatomy and simplifying it for someone who is a movement professional."
"The content is applicable to teaching yoga and is a solid foundation for me."
"I loved how the terms were applied to the teaching of yoga poses. Very clear and understandable."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Applied Yoga Anatomy: 101 The Language of Anatomy & Movement with these activities:
Review Basic Anatomy Terminology
Strengthen your understanding of fundamental anatomical terms to better grasp the course's language of movement and joint analysis.
Show steps
  • Review anatomical position and directional terms.
  • Practice identifying body parts using anatomical terminology.
Review 'Yoga Anatomy' by Leslie Kaminoff
Deepen your understanding of anatomical structures and their relevance to yoga poses, enhancing your ability to analyze joint movements.
Show steps
  • Read chapters related to joint movements and muscle actions.
  • Study the illustrations of muscles involved in common yoga poses.
  • Relate the anatomical information to your own yoga practice.
Joint Movement Flashcards
Reinforce your recall of joint movements by using flashcards to quiz yourself on anatomical terms and their corresponding actions.
Show steps
  • Create flashcards with anatomical terms on one side and definitions/examples on the other.
  • Practice using the flashcards regularly to improve recall.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Develop a 3D Model Presentation
Create a presentation using a 3D anatomy app (like Complete Anatomy) to illustrate joint movements in specific yoga poses, enhancing your understanding and presentation skills.
Show steps
  • Select a few key yoga poses.
  • Use the 3D anatomy app to isolate and demonstrate the joint movements in each pose.
  • Prepare a presentation explaining the anatomical actions and benefits of each pose.
  • Practice your presentation to ensure clarity and accuracy.
Create a Pose Analysis Guide
Solidify your understanding of joint movements and anatomical terminology by creating a guide that analyzes the joint actions in specific yoga poses.
Show steps
  • Choose 3-5 yoga poses to analyze.
  • Identify the primary joint actions in each pose.
  • Describe the muscles involved in each joint action.
  • Present your analysis in a clear and organized format.
Explore 'Functional Anatomy of Yoga' by David Keil
Gain a deeper understanding of functional anatomy and its application to yoga practice, improving your ability to teach and practice safely.
Show steps
  • Read chapters related to specific muscle groups and their function in yoga poses.
  • Analyze the biomechanics of common yoga poses using the book's insights.
  • Consider how to apply this knowledge to your own teaching or practice.
Design an Anatomy-Informed Yoga Sequence
Apply your knowledge of anatomy and joint movements to create a yoga sequence that promotes balanced joint mobility and avoids overusing or underusing specific ranges of motion.
Show steps
  • Choose a specific focus for your sequence (e.g., hip opening, spinal mobility).
  • Select poses that address the desired joint movements in a balanced way.
  • Sequence the poses in a logical order, considering transitions and contraindications.
  • Document your sequence with anatomical explanations for each pose.

Career center

Learners who complete Applied Yoga Anatomy: 101 The Language of Anatomy & Movement will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Yoga Instructor
A Yoga Instructor guides students through various yoga poses and breathing techniques, tailoring instruction to different skill levels and physical needs. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy helps build a foundation in the language of anatomy and movement, which is essential for effective lesson planning and sequencing poses. Learning to analyze joint movement through this course allows the Yoga Instructor to adapt practices to meet the specific needs of each student, which also allows them to critique their own classes effectively.
Corrective Exercise Specialist
A Corrective Exercise Specialist identifies and corrects movement imbalances to improve posture, reduce pain, and enhance performance. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy helps a Corrective Exercise Specialist in understanding the language of anatomy and movement which allows them to accurately assess movement patterns and develop targeted exercise interventions. Understanding joint action and the planes of movement, are critical in creating effective corrective exercise programs.
Movement Therapist
A Movement Therapist uses movement to promote emotional, mental, and physical health. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy helps the Movement Therapist by providing a framework for understanding the anatomical basis of movement and it's impact on well being. Understanding the language of anatomy, including joint actions and movement patterns, allows therapists to better understand their clients' physical limitations and emotional expression through movement.
Kinesiologist
A Kinesiologist studies the mechanics of body movement. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy assists a kinesiologist in deepening their understanding of the language of anatomy and joint movement, allowing for a more detailed analysis of human motion. The course's instruction on anatomical terminology and the three planes of movement are helpful for a kinesiologist performing movement assessments or designing rehabilitation programs.
Anatomy Instructor
An Anatomy Instructor teaches the structure of the human body, often in academic or professional training settings. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy helps enhance the Anatomy Instructor's understanding of functional anatomy and the language of movement. Its detailed exploration of joint actions and movement patterns, coupled with 3D visualizations, provides valuable insights for teaching the practical application of anatomy in a yoga context. Such study may also improve their lesson planning skills.
Personal Trainer
A Personal Trainer helps individuals achieve their fitness goals through customized workout programs and nutritional guidance. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy helps a personal trainer design safe and effective exercise routines. The course's instruction on anatomical terminology and joint movement enhances a trainer's comprehension of biomechanics, allowing the development of techniques that improve performance and prevent injuries, which is especially useful in lesson planning and sequencing.
Physical Therapist
A Physical Therapist assesses and treats patients with physical injuries or conditions to improve their movement and reduce pain. The knowledge of anatomy and movement provided by this course on Yoga Anatomy assists a physical therapist in understanding the biomechanics of the body, analyzing movement patterns, and developing effective treatment plans. With a deeper understanding of joint motion and anatomical terminology, the physical therapist can more accurately identify and address musculoskeletal issues. Please note that this role typically requires an advanced degree.
Massage Therapist
A Massage Therapist manipulates the soft tissues of the body to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy helps augment a Massage Therapist's understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy and movement. By learning the language of anatomy and how joints move, the massage therapist can provide more targeted and effective treatments. Enhanced insights into the anatomical language in the course, can help the Massage Therapist provide better care.
Athletic Trainer
An Athletic Trainer specializes in preventing and treating athletic injuries, working with athletes to optimize their performance and recovery. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy helps an athletic trainer understand the biomechanics of movement, analyze joint actions, and develop effective training and rehabilitation programs. The course's emphasis on anatomical terminology and movement patterns enables the athletic trainer to better assess injuries, design appropriate exercises, and educate athletes on injury prevention strategies.
Wellness Coach
A Wellness Coach guides clients in adopting healthy lifestyle habits to improve their overall well-being. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy helps inform a Wellness Coach about body movement in yoga. The knowledge of anatomy and movement, including joint actions and anatomical terminology, allows them to provide informed guidance on incorporating movement practices into a wellness plan. This may allow the coach to help their client improve their physical and mental health.
Occupational Therapist
An Occupational Therapist helps patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy may be useful for an occupational therapist in understanding the mechanics of movement and how they relate to everyday tasks. By learning the language of anatomy and movement, the therapist can better analyze a patient's functional abilities and develop targeted interventions to improve their quality of life. Please note that this role typically requires an advanced degree.
Pilates Instructor
A Pilates Instructor leads individuals or groups through exercises that focus on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy may be useful for a Pilates Instructor. The course emphasizes the language of anatomy and movement, deepening understanding of joint actions and body mechanics. This knowledge assists in designing effective Pilates routines, adapting exercises to individual needs, and analyzing movement patterns to prevent injury. The 3D visualizations of skeletal movements are an asset.
Dance Teacher
A Dance Teacher instructs students in various dance styles, focusing on technique, expression, and choreography. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy may be useful to a Dance Teacher. Understanding the language of anatomy and movement, along with the mechanics of joint action, is crucial for teaching proper form and preventing injuries in dance. The course's focus on lesson planning and movement analysis assists dance teachers in creating comprehensive and safe instruction, tailored to their students' needs. Instruction on the 3 planes of movement can also assist the dance teacher.
Ergonomist
An Ergonomist designs and evaluates workspaces, systems, and products to improve safety, efficiency, and comfort. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy may be useful for the Ergonomist. By learning the language of anatomy and movement, they can better understand how the body interacts with its environment and identify potential risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries. The course's emphasis on joint action and movement patterns helps ergonomists develop solutions that promote proper posture and reduce strain.
Recreational Therapist
A Recreational Therapist uses recreational activities to improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals with illnesses or disabilities. This course on Applied Yoga Anatomy may be useful for a recreational therapist looking to incorporate movement-based activities into their therapeutic interventions, especially since it explains the language of anatomy. Understanding joint actions and movement patterns helps the therapist adapt activities to meet the specific needs and abilities of their clients, thus improving their overall health and well-being.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Applied Yoga Anatomy: 101 The Language of Anatomy & Movement.
Provides a comprehensive overview of anatomy relevant to yoga practice. It offers detailed illustrations and explanations of muscles, bones, and joints. It valuable resource for understanding the biomechanics of asanas and how to modify poses for individual needs. This book is commonly used as a textbook in yoga teacher training programs.
Delves into the functional anatomy of yoga, focusing on how muscles and joints work together in asanas. It provides practical insights into common injuries and how to prevent them. It is particularly useful for yoga teachers seeking to deepen their understanding of biomechanics and safe alignment. This book adds more depth to the existing course.

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