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Laura Goellner E-RYT, C-IAYT

In Part 3 of the "Anatomy of Yoga" series we are focusing on the This course will take what you know about human anatomy and show you exactly how that information impacts the way that you sequence a yoga class. This is where we step into the space of being an Anatomy Informed Yoga Teacher.

This course is structured around the 12 Major Body Systems and how Yoga interacts with them:

- The Skeletal System

- The Muscular System

- The Nervous System

- The Respiratory System

- The Digestive System

- The Vascular System

- The Lymphatic System

- The Immune System

Read more

In Part 3 of the "Anatomy of Yoga" series we are focusing on the This course will take what you know about human anatomy and show you exactly how that information impacts the way that you sequence a yoga class. This is where we step into the space of being an Anatomy Informed Yoga Teacher.

This course is structured around the 12 Major Body Systems and how Yoga interacts with them:

- The Skeletal System

- The Muscular System

- The Nervous System

- The Respiratory System

- The Digestive System

- The Vascular System

- The Lymphatic System

- The Immune System

- The Integumentary System

- The Reproductive System

- The Urinary System

- The Endocrine System

Here is the Structure of each module: 

1.) For each body system, I will talk about the Key Components that we can utilize on the Yoga mat. This will include postures, sequences, breathwork, and meditation techniques.

2.) I will get on the mat and practice these techniques so that you can see how I integrate them into a yoga class.

3.) I will give you a sample lesson plan that I created for each body system. I will talk you through why I selected each technique and sequence for that particular class theme and how it interacts with that body system.

4.) Putting these skills into action: You will use the lesson planning template to write your own class plan. You will have my sample lesson plan and resources to pull information from to inspire your creativity as a yoga teacher.

If you are a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT): Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Credits are available for this course

If you are a Yoga Therapist: Continuing Education Credits are available through the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT)

Please note: that this course is about the   This course is taught in a way that assumes you have already completed some basic training in Human Anatomy and yoga.  I will be using the language of anatomy and anatomical terminology in these lectures.  If you want to learn about the structure and function of the body systems enroll in the "Anatomy of Yoga" part 1 & 2.

For those that have completed a Yoga Teacher Training that included an Anatomy & Physiology module- this course is a great way to build on that knowledge and learn how to APPLY it to your lesson planning.

Yoga Teacher Training: The "Anatomy of Yoga" Part 1, 2 & 3 combine to fulfill the 30+ hour Anatomy and Physiology module for a 200 hour Yoga Alliance certified training. These courses can be utilized in your YTT program with additional support and guidance from Laura if needed.

I hope you will join me on this journey to creating a generation of confident, well-educated & effective Yoga Teachers.

Questions? Reach out to me through Udemy & I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to apply anatomy knowledge to teaching yoga on the mat
  • How to sequence an anatomy informed yoga class
  • How yoga interacts with the body systems
  • The process of lesson planning based on your understanding of the human body

Syllabus

Introduction
Welcome to the Anatomy of Yoga Series: Part 3
Questions, Contact and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Credits
Yoga Teacher Scope of Practice, Professional Boundaries and Ethics
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Builds upon existing knowledge of anatomy and physiology, offering a practical approach to applying this knowledge in yoga lesson planning
Provides sample lesson plans and a lesson planning template, which can inspire creativity and provide a framework for developing anatomy-informed yoga classes
Focuses on the practical application of anatomy to yoga sequencing, which helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world teaching
Requires prior basic training in human anatomy and yoga, which may exclude beginners without the foundational knowledge
Offers continuing education credits for Registered Yoga Teachers (RYT) and Yoga Therapists, which may be valuable for professional development
Assumes familiarity with anatomical terminology, which may require additional study for those with limited anatomy background

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Reviews summary

Applying anatomy to yoga teaching

According to learners, this course is highly valuable for yoga teachers looking to deepen their understanding and application of anatomy. Students say it successfully bridges the gap between theoretical anatomical knowledge and practical yoga teaching. The course provides clear guidance on applying anatomy to sequencing and lesson planning exercises are frequently highlighted as particularly useful. Many appreciate the comprehensive coverage of various body systems and how yoga interacts with them. However, reviewers consistently note that a solid prerequisite knowledge of basic anatomy and yoga is essential, as the course builds directly on prior learning, potentially making it challenging for those without the recommended foundation.
Assumes prior anatomy and yoga knowledge.
"Be aware that this course definitely assumes you have a good foundation in basic anatomy and yoga."
"You really need to have taken Parts 1 and 2 or have equivalent knowledge to keep up."
"It builds heavily on prior learning, so make sure your prerequisites are strong."
"Someone new to anatomy would likely struggle without the foundational courses."
Covers many body systems and interactions.
"The course's structure around the 12 body systems provides comprehensive and organized learning."
"I liked exploring how yoga affects each specific system, from skeletal to endocrine."
"It covers a lot of ground, giving a good overview of how anatomy applies across different body parts and functions."
"Going through each system systematically made the content easy to digest and apply."
Useful exercises and sample plans.
"The lesson planning exercises for each body system were incredibly practical and helped me structure my classes."
"I appreciated the sample lesson plans provided and the breakdown of *why* certain poses or techniques were chosen."
"The exercises guide you step-by-step in creating anatomy-informed class plans."
"Learning how to integrate anatomy into my actual lesson planning was a game-changer."
Focus on applying anatomy to teaching.
"This course excels at showing you exactly how to apply anatomy knowledge directly to teaching yoga classes."
"I found the translation of anatomical concepts into practical sequencing and cueing incredibly beneficial."
"It really helped me understand how to use my anatomy knowledge *on the mat* with my students."
"The practical application aspect is the strongest part; it's not just theory."

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 "Anatomy of Yoga"3: Teacher Training Workshop Series with these activities:
Review Basic Human Anatomy
Refresh your understanding of basic human anatomy to better grasp the application of anatomy in yoga sequencing.
Browse courses on Human Anatomy
Show steps
  • Review anatomical terms and definitions.
  • Study the major bones, muscles, and organs.
  • Understand the basic functions of each body system.
Read 'Yoga Anatomy' by Leslie Kaminoff
Deepen your understanding of anatomy and its application to yoga by studying a comprehensive guide.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Yoga Anatomy' by Leslie Kaminoff.
  • Read the chapters related to the body systems covered in the course.
  • Pay attention to the illustrations and explanations of muscle engagement in different poses.
Create a Yoga Sequence for a Specific Body System
Solidify your understanding of how yoga interacts with a specific body system by designing a sequence that targets it.
Show steps
  • Choose a body system from the course (e.g., respiratory, digestive).
  • Research yoga poses and techniques that benefit that system.
  • Create a sequence of poses, breathwork, and meditation techniques.
  • Write a rationale for each element of the sequence, explaining its impact on the chosen body system.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Teaching with Peers
Refine your teaching skills and receive feedback by practicing teaching yoga sequences to your peers.
Show steps
  • Organize a practice session with fellow yoga students or teachers.
  • Prepare a short yoga sequence focused on a specific body system.
  • Teach the sequence to your peers and receive constructive feedback.
  • Offer feedback to your peers as they teach.
Explore 'Functional Anatomy of Yoga' by David Keil
Enhance your understanding of functional anatomy and its relevance to yoga practice through in-depth study.
Show steps
  • Acquire a copy of 'Functional Anatomy of Yoga' by David Keil.
  • Study the chapters related to biomechanics and movement patterns.
  • Apply the principles learned to your own yoga practice and teaching.
Develop a Workshop on Anatomy-Informed Yoga
Consolidate your knowledge and share it with others by creating and delivering a workshop on anatomy-informed yoga.
Show steps
  • Choose a specific theme for your workshop (e.g., yoga for back pain, yoga for digestion).
  • Develop a lesson plan that incorporates anatomical principles and relevant yoga poses.
  • Create handouts or visual aids to support your presentation.
  • Practice delivering the workshop to friends or family.
Answer Questions in Online Yoga Forums
Reinforce your understanding of anatomy and yoga by helping others learn and clarify their doubts.
Show steps
  • Find online yoga forums or communities.
  • Regularly check for questions related to anatomy and yoga.
  • Provide thoughtful and accurate answers based on your knowledge.

Career center

Learners who complete "Anatomy of Yoga"3: Teacher Training Workshop Series will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Yoga Instructor
A Yoga Instructor guides students through various yoga practices, ensuring proper alignment and technique. This course, focusing on the anatomy of yoga, directly enhances a Yoga Instructor's ability to teach safely and effectively. The course delves into the 12 major body systems and how yoga interacts with them, providing a framework for creating anatomy informed yoga classes. A Yoga Instructor can benefit from the sample lesson plans provided for each body system, which incorporates postures, sequences, breathwork, and meditation techniques. The course’s emphasis on the skeletal, muscular, nervous, respiratory, and other systems equips instructors with the knowledge to adapt practices to individual needs.
Yoga Therapist
A Yoga Therapist uses yoga techniques to address specific health conditions and promote overall well-being. This course, with its focus on the anatomy of yoga, offers Yoga Therapists a deeper understanding of how yoga impacts the body's systems. By exploring the interaction between yoga and the skeletal, muscular, nervous, and other body systems, the therapist can tailor interventions more effectively. The lesson planning exercises in the course enables a Yoga Therapist to design targeted yoga programs. Completion of this course qualifies for Continuing Education Credits through the International Association of Yoga Therapists, demonstrating a commitment to professional development.
Anatomy Educator
An Anatomy Educator instructs students on the structure and function of the human body. While typically requiring an advanced degree, this course provides valuable practical insights that complement theoretical knowledge. This course's systematic exploration of the 12 major body systems and their interaction with yoga offers a unique perspective on anatomy. The Anatomy Educator can use this knowledge to create engaging and relevant lessons for yoga students. The course material, including discussions of key components for each body system and sample lesson plans, can enhance an Anatomy Educator's teaching resources.
Pilates Instructor
A Pilates Instructor guides individuals or groups through Pilates exercises, focusing on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. While Pilates differs from yoga, understanding anatomy is crucial for safe and effective instruction. The course's exploration of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems may be useful to a Pilates Instructor. The insights into muscle categories, types of muscle contraction, and forms of range of motion outlined in this course helps inform exercise selection and modification. The course also explores progressive loading for strength and anti range of motion to build stability.
Physical Therapist
A Physical Therapist assesses and treats individuals with physical impairments or limitations. While a Physical Therapist typically requires an advanced degree and extensive clinical training, the anatomical knowledge gained from this course may be useful. The course explores the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems, potentially enhancing a Physical Therapist's understanding of movement and rehabilitation. A Physical Therapist may find the course helpful especially with its application of yoga to each of the body's systems.
Wellness Coach
A Wellness Coach guides clients in adopting healthy lifestyle habits, including exercise, nutrition, and stress management. This course, focusing on the anatomy of yoga, equips a Wellness Coach with additional knowledge about the body and its systems. By understanding how yoga interacts with the digestive, respiratory, and nervous systems, the Wellness Coach can integrate yoga principles into personalized wellness plans. This course's emphasis on breathwork and meditation techniques may be useful for helping clients manage stress and improve overall well being. The course's comprehensive overview of body systems assists a Wellness Coach who wishes to include basic yoga practices in their offering.
Massage Therapist
A Massage Therapist manipulates the soft tissues of the body to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. The detailed exploration of the muscular system in this course offers a Massage Therapist insights into muscle function and dysfunction. The course may provide a Massage Therapist an enhanced understanidng of how different yoga poses can impact muscle tension and flexibility. The course also touches upon the lymphatic system, which is relevant to massage techniques aimed at promoting lymphatic drainage. This exploration includes looking at muscle categories, types of muscle contractions, and forms of range of motion.
Athletic Trainer
An Athletic Trainer works with athletes to prevent and treat injuries. The insights into the musculoskeletal system provided in this course may be helpful for an Athletic Trainer. The Athletic Trainer can apply these insights to design rehabilitation programs and injury prevention strategies. This exploration includes progressive loading for strength and anti range of motion to build stability. While this course focuses on yoga, some knowledge may be transferable to athletic training contexts.
Recreational Therapist
A Recreational Therapist uses recreational activities to improve the physical, emotional, and social well being of individuals with illnesses or disabilities. The course materials covering the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems may be helpful for a Recreational Therapist. The focus on yoga's impact on these systems may inform the design of therapeutic recreational programs. The Recreational Therapist can also utilize yogic methods to apply progressive loading for strength. While a Recreational Therapist typically requires a bachelors degree, this course's anatomy information can support program design.
Dance Instructor
A Dance Instructor teaches various dance styles to students of all ages and skill levels. While dance focuses on artistic expression, anatomical awareness is crucial for preventing injuries and promoting proper technique. The focus on the skeletal and muscular systems may be useful to a Dance Instructor. In particular, the course's discussion of range of motion and muscle function can inform dance instruction. Those teaching movement can more deeply understand how yoga interacts with these systems. Although a Dance Instructor does not typically require an advanced degree, a thorough understanding of anatomy may be helpful.
Personal Trainer
A Personal Trainer designs and implements exercise programs for individual clients, focusing on fitness goals, strength, and overall health. This course's exploration of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems may be relevant to a Personal Trainer. This course's content also covers progressive loading for strength. The sample lesson plans help those in fitness to understand key body components, muscle categories, and types of muscle contraction. By understanding how yoga interacts with the nervous, respiratory, and digestive systems, the Personal Trainer can better tailor exercise programs.
Health Educator
A Health Educator develops and implements programs to promote health and wellness within communities or organizations. While a Health Educator typically requires a bachelors degree, this course's exploration of the body systems may be useful. The course also discusses the lymphatic and circulatory systems. A Health Educator can use yoga to convey information about health and wellness. The course's emphasis on breathwork, movement, and mindfulness may be helpful for designing health education programs.
Group Fitness Instructor
A Group Fitness Instructor leads exercise classes for groups of people, motivating participants and ensuring proper form. The course's exploration of the skeletal and muscular systems may be helpful for a Group Fitness Instructor. Knowing how yoga interacts with these systems can inform exercise selection and cueing. The course content also explores muscle categories, types of muscle contraction, and forms of range of motion.
Health and Wellness Director
A Health and Wellness Director oversees health and wellness programs within organizations or communities. While a Health and Wellness Director typically requires a bachelors degree, this course's exploration of body systems may inform program development. The course describes how yoga interacts with the nervous, respiratory, and digestive systems, and this may be useful for health and wellness program design. The course's emphasis on breathwork, movement, and mindfulness can also inform health education programs.
Occupational Therapist
An Occupational Therapist helps individuals develop or regain skills needed for daily living and working. This course touches on the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems and this may be useful for an Occupational Therapist. Topics include muscles categories, types of muscle contraction, and forms of range of motion. While an Occupational Therapist typically requires an advanced degree, the anatomy knowledge from this course may support therapeutic interventions.

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 "Anatomy of Yoga"3: Teacher Training Workshop Series.
Provides a detailed overview of the anatomy relevant to yoga practice. It explains how specific muscles are engaged in different poses and how to avoid injuries. It commonly used reference for yoga teachers and students alike. This book adds depth to the course by providing visual and textual explanations of anatomical concepts.
Delves into the functional anatomy of yoga, focusing on how the body moves and functions in different poses. It provides insights into common misalignments and how to correct them. It valuable resource for yoga teachers seeking to deepen their understanding of biomechanics. This book adds breadth to the course by exploring functional movement.

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