IYO® International Diploma in Yoga Therapy

Course Details

Information

Course Name

IYO® International Diploma in Yoga Therapy

Certification Body

IYO® International Yoga Organisation

Duration

12 months (1000 hours)

Structure

2 Semesters (6 months each)

Eligibility

10th Std. (SSC) or 12th Std. (HSC)

Total Marks

800 marks

Passing Criteria

50%

Assessment Components

Theory (200), Practical (200), Project & Viva (200), Internal Assessment (200)

Objective No.

Description

1

Promoting positive health, prevention of stress-related health problems and rehabilitation through Yoga

2

Integral approach of Yoga Therapy to common ailments

3

To equip students with theoretical understanding and practical skills needed to apply Yoga as a therapeutic tool for prevention and management of physical and psychological disorders

4

Invoke scientific attitude and team spirit to channelise their energies into creative and constructive endeavours

5

To enable them to establish Yoga Therapy centres in the service of the common man

Component

Semester 1

Semester 2

Total Marks

Theory Papers

100 marks

100 marks

200 marks

Practical Papers

100 marks

100 marks

200 marks

Project & Viva

100 marks

100 marks

200 marks

Internal Assessment

100 marks

100 marks

200 marks

TOTAL

400 marks

400 marks

800 marks

Module Details

Information

Credit Hours

3

Total Hours

45

Main Topics

Origin and history of yoga therapy, Philosophical foundations, Scope and application in modern health care, Yoga vs. yoga therapy

Sankhyayoga Components

Introduction, 3-fold afflictions, means to overcome afflictions, 25 entities according to Sankhya, means of knowledge, Satkarya vada

Bhagavad Gita Study

Critical study of Sankhyayoga, Dhyana yoga, Bhakti-yoga, Character-types of Bhakta, methods

Upanishads Coverage

Essence of Upanishads, Isavasya, Taittariya, etc.

Module Details

Information

Credit Hours

4

Total Hours

60

Body Systems Covered

Skeletal, Muscular, Circulatory, Respiratory, Nervous, Endocrine

Physiology Topics

Physiology of exercise and relaxation

Stress & Disease

Role of nervous and endocrine systems in stress and disease

Yoga Effects

Effects of Yoga on Human Physiology

Module Details

Information

Credit Hours

2

Total Hours

30

Loosening Practices

Basic warm-up and preparation techniques

Asanas Categories

Basic postures from standing, sitting, supine, and prone categories

Pranayama Techniques

Nadishuddhi, Bhramari, Kapalabhati

Shuddhi Kriyas

Jal Neti, Trataka – demonstration and explanation

Relaxation

Yoga Nidra (basic level)

Module Details

Information

Credit Hours

3

Total Hours

45

Panchakosha Theory

Five sheaths of human existence

Triguna Theory

Sattva, Rajas, Tamas - three fundamental qualities

Mind Components

Concept of Chitta, Manas, Buddhi, Ahamkara

Health Perspective

Yogic view of health and illness

Energy Systems

Introduction to chakras and prana

Module Details

Information

Credit Hours

4

Total Hours

60

Metabolic Disorders

Diabetes, Hypertension, Obesity, PCOD, Thyroid

Cardiovascular Issues

Hypertension, cardiac arrest, angina

Musculoskeletal Problems

Back pain, Arthritis

Respiratory Conditions

Asthma, COPD, Allergies

Digestive Issues

Constipation, IBS, Acidity

Psychological Conditions

Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Migraine

Safety Measures

Contraindications and precautions

Module Details

Information

Credit Hours

2

Total Hours

30

Food Classification

Satvic, Rajasic, Tamasic food categories

Therapeutic Diet

Role of diet in healing process

Lifestyle Routines

Yogic lifestyle routines (Dinacharya, Ritucharya)

Cleansing Practices

Detox and fasting practices

Ayurvedic Integration

Basic principles of Ayurveda and their relevance in yoga therapy

Module Details

Information

Credit Hours

3

Total Hours

45

Therapeutic Modules

Condition-specific asana and pranayama modules

Adaptations

Use of props and modifications

Advanced Techniques

Therapeutic relaxation and meditation techniques

Clinical Skills

Client observation and session planning

Kriya Name

Theory Marks

Practical Marks

Jalaneti

60

40

Agnisara

60

40

Kapalabhati

60

40

Trataka

60

40

Sutraneti

60

40

Gajakarani

60

40

Vastradhauti

60

40

Madhyamanauli

60

40

Shankha Prakshalana

60

40

Meditation Type

Theory Marks

Practical Marks

Traditional Meditation Techniques

40

20

Trataka: Bahiranga and Antaranga

40

20

Ajapajapa

40

20

Antarmauna

40

20

Akashadharanas: Chidakasha, Hridayakasha, Daharakasha

40

20

Transcendental Meditation

40

20

Preksha Dhyana

40

20

Avarthana Dhyana

40

20

Module Details

Information

Credit Hours

2

Total Hours

60 (includes fieldwork)

Observation Tasks

Observe and assist in therapy sessions

Case Reports

Prepare 2–3 detailed case reports

Practical Delivery

Deliver therapeutic sessions under supervision

Final Assessment

Final viva voce based on clinical observations

Assessment Type

Weightage

Written Exams

40%

Practical Exams

30%

Assignments / Reports

10%

Internship & Viva

20%

Outcome No.

Learning Outcome

1

Design safe and effective yoga therapy sessions

2

Understand common health conditions and yogic solutions

3

Assist in clinical and wellness centre settings

4

Integrate yoga therapy with lifestyle and diet planning

Module

Credits

Hours

Semester

Module 1: Foundations of Yoga Therapy

3

45

Semester 1

Module 2: Human Anatomy & Physiology

4

60

Semester 1

Module 3: Practical – Classical Yoga Techniques (Level I)

2

30

Semester 1

Module 4: Yogic Psychology & Philosophy

3

45

Semester 1

Module 5: Yoga Therapy for Common Disorders

4

60

Semester 2

Module 6: Diet and Lifestyle in Yoga Therapy

2

30

Semester 2

Module 7: Practical – Therapeutic Yoga Techniques (Level II)

3

45

Semester 2

Module 8: Case Studies & Internship

2

60

Semester 2

TOTAL

23

375

Both Semesters

Philosophy Branch

Key Topics

Study Hours

Patanjali Yoga Sutras

Eight-limbed path, Samadhi, Sadhana, Vibhuti, Kaivalya

15

Sankhya Yoga

25 entities, Triguna, Purusha-Prakrti, Samyoga, Sarga

15

Bhagavad Gita

Sankhyayoga, Dhyana yoga, Bhakti-yoga, Karma yoga

10

Hatha Yoga

Physical practices, Shatkarma, Asana, Pranayama

8

Upanishads

Isavasya, Taittariya, Essence of Vedantic thought

7

Body System

Key Components

Yoga Applications

Study Hours

Skeletal System

Bones, Joints, Cartilage

Asanas for bone health, Joint mobility

10

Muscular System

Muscles, Tendons, Ligaments

Strengthening, Flexibility, Relaxation

10

Circulatory System

Heart, Blood vessels, Blood

Cardiovascular health, Blood pressure

10

Respiratory System

Lungs, Airways, Gas exchange

Pranayama, Breathing techniques

10

Nervous System

Brain, Spinal cord, Nerves

Stress management, Meditation

10

Endocrine System

Hormones, Glands

Hormonal balance, Stress response

10

Technique Category

Specific Practices

Benefits

Practice Hours

Loosening Practices

Joint rotations, Warm-up exercises

Preparation, Injury prevention

5

Standing Asanas

Tadasana, Vrikshasana, Trikonasana

Strength, Balance, Grounding

8

Sitting Asanas

Sukhasana, Padmasana, Vajrasana

Meditation preparation, Hip flexibility

6

Supine Asanas

Shavasana, Pawanmuktasana

Relaxation, Spinal health

5

Prone Asanas

Bhujangasana, Shalabhasana

Back strength, Spinal extension

4

Pranayama

Nadishuddhi, Bhramari, Kapalabhati

Breath control, Mental clarity

2

Psychological Concept

Description

Therapeutic Application

Panchakosha Theory

Five layers: Annamaya, Pranamaya, Manomaya, Vijnanamaya, Anandamaya

Holistic assessment and treatment approach

Triguna Theory

Sattva (balance), Rajas (activity), Tamas (inertia)

Understanding personality and mental states

Chitta

Consciousness, Memory, Subconscious mind

Mental purification and clarity

Manas

Mind, Thinking faculty

Thought management and focus

Buddhi

Intellect, Discrimination

Decision making and wisdom

Ahamkara

Ego, Self-identity

Ego management and self-awareness

Chakra System

Seven energy centers

Energy balancing and healing

Prana

Life force energy

Vitality and energy management

Disorder Category

Specific Conditions

Yoga Interventions

Study Hours

Metabolic Disorders

Diabetes, Obesity, PCOD, Thyroid

Specific asanas, Pranayama, Diet

12

Cardiovascular

Hypertension, Angina, Cardiac issues

Gentle asanas, Relaxation, Meditation

10

Musculoskeletal

Back pain, Arthritis, Joint problems

Therapeutic asanas, Strengthening

10

Respiratory

Asthma, COPD, Allergies

Pranayama, Breathing exercises

8

Digestive

Constipation, IBS, Acidity

Twisting asanas, Abdominal exercises

8

Psychological

Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Migraine

Meditation, Relaxation, Pranayama

12

Component

Details

Therapeutic Benefits

Satvic Food

Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts

Mental clarity, Physical health, Spiritual growth

Rajasic Food

Spicy, salty, stimulating foods

Understanding effects on mind and body

Tamasic Food

Processed, stale, heavy foods

Recognition of harmful effects

Dinacharya

Daily routine according to natural rhythms

Optimal health, Energy management

Ritucharya

Seasonal lifestyle adjustments

Adaptation to environmental changes

Detox Practices

Fasting, Cleansing techniques

Body purification, Healing acceleration

Ayurvedic Principles

Doshas, Constitution, Balance

Personalized therapy approaches

Technique Area

Specific Methods

Applications

Hours

Condition-specific Modules

Customized sequences for different ailments

Targeted therapeutic interventions

15

Props and Modifications

Blocks, straps, chairs, wall support

Accessibility and safety

10

Therapeutic Relaxation

Progressive relaxation, Yoga Nidra advanced

Deep healing and restoration

10

Advanced Meditation

Condition-specific meditation techniques

Mental and emotional healing

10

Kriya Name

Technique

Benefits

Precautions

Jalaneti

Nasal cleansing with salt water

Sinus health, Respiratory clarity

Water temperature, Salt concentration

Agnisara

Abdominal muscle contractions

Digestive fire, Core strength

Empty stomach, No pregnancy

Kapalabhati

Forceful exhalation breathing

Mental clarity, Lung capacity

Heart conditions, High BP

Trataka

Candle gazing meditation

Eye health, Concentration

Eye problems, Headaches

Sutraneti

Nasal cleansing with thread

Advanced sinus cleansing

Proper guidance required

Gajakarani

Voluntary vomiting

Stomach cleansing

Medical supervision needed

Vastradhauti

Cloth swallowing technique

Stomach and esophagus cleansing

Expert guidance essential

Madhyamanauli

Abdominal muscle isolation

Digestive health, Core control

Gradual progression needed

Shankha Prakshalana

Complete digestive tract cleansing

Full body detoxification

Medical clearance required

Meditation Type

Method

Benefits

Suitable For

Traditional Meditation

Classical sitting meditation with breath awareness

Mental peace, Spiritual growth

All levels

Trataka (Bahiranga)

External gazing at candle flame

Eye health, Concentration

Beginners

Trataka (Antaranga)

Internal visualization of light

Advanced concentration, Inner vision

Advanced practitioners

Ajapajapa

Spontaneous mantra repetition

Mantra power, Divine connection

Devotional practitioners

Antarmauna

Inner silence meditation

Mental stillness, Self-awareness

Intermediate level

Chidakasha Dharana

Awareness of mental space

Consciousness expansion

Advanced level

Hridayakasha Dharana

Heart center awareness

Emotional healing, Love cultivation

All levels

Daharakasha Dharana

Awareness of inner space

Spiritual awakening

Advanced practitioners

Transcendental Meditation

Mantra-based technique

Stress reduction, Transcendence

All levels

Preksha Dhyana

Perception-based meditation

Self-purification, Awareness

Jain tradition followers

Avarthana Dhyana

Cyclical meditation technique

Energy circulation, Balance

Intermediate level

Activity

Requirements

Assessment Criteria

Observation Hours

Minimum 20 hours of therapy session observation

Detailed observation logs, Learning reflections

Case Report 1

Musculoskeletal disorder case study

Assessment, Treatment plan, Progress tracking

Case Report 2

Metabolic disorder case study

Comprehensive analysis, Yoga interventions

Case Report 3

Psychological condition case study

Holistic approach, Outcome measurement

Supervised Practice

Conduct 10 therapy sessions under supervision

Teaching skills, Safety protocols, Client interaction

Final Viva

Oral examination based on clinical experience

Knowledge application, Problem-solving, Professional ethics

Career Path

Work Settings

Required Skills

Yoga Therapist

Wellness centers, Hospitals, Private practice

Assessment skills, Treatment planning, Client communication

Wellness Consultant

Corporate wellness, Health resorts, Spas

Program design, Group facilitation, Health education

Rehabilitation Specialist

Physiotherapy clinics, Rehabilitation centers

Medical knowledge, Adaptive techniques, Team collaboration

Yoga Therapy Center Owner

Independent practice, Franchise operations

Business management, Marketing, Staff training

Research Assistant

Universities, Research institutions

Data collection, Analysis skills, Academic writing

Workshop Facilitator

Educational institutions, Community centers

Public speaking, Curriculum development, Teaching skills

Advanced Course

Duration

Specialization Focus

Master's in Yoga Therapy

2 years

Advanced clinical skills, Research methodology

Specialized Certification Programs

3-6 months

Specific conditions (Cancer, Cardiac, Mental health)

Ayurveda Integration Course

1 year

Combining Ayurvedic principles with Yoga therapy

Yoga Psychology Diploma

1 year

Deep psychological applications of Yoga

Research Methodology in Yoga

6 months

Scientific research in Yoga therapy

Teacher Training Certification

6 months

Training other Yoga therapy practitioners

Quality Parameter

Standard/Requirement

Faculty Qualifications

Minimum Master's degree in relevant field with 5+ years experience

Student-Teacher Ratio

Maximum 15:1 for practical sessions, 25:1 for theory classes

Infrastructure Requirements

Dedicated yoga hall, Library, Audio-visual equipment, First aid facilities

Assessment Standards

Continuous evaluation, Practical demonstrations, Case study presentations

Certification Validity

Internationally recognized, Valid for professional practice

Ethical Guidelines

Professional code of conduct, Client confidentiality, Safety protocols

Continuing Education

Mandatory 20 hours annual professional development

Accreditation

IYO® International Yoga Organisation certified program

Support Service

Description

Academic Counseling

Individual guidance for academic progress and career planning

Library Access

24/7 access to physical and digital resources, Research databases

Practice Facilities

Extended hours access to yoga halls and equipment

Mentorship Program

Pairing with experienced practitioners for guidance

Placement Assistance

Job placement support, Interview preparation, Resume building

Alumni Network

Connection with graduates for networking and career opportunities

Financial Aid

Scholarship programs, Installment payment options

Health Services

Basic medical support, Wellness counseling

Research Area

Potential Projects

Expected Outcomes

Clinical Effectiveness

Yoga therapy outcomes for specific conditions

Evidence-based practice protocols

Mechanism Studies

How yoga affects physiological parameters

Scientific understanding of yoga benefits

Comparative Studies

Yoga vs conventional treatments

Integration guidelines for healthcare

Technology Integration

Digital tools for yoga therapy delivery

Innovative therapy delivery methods

Cultural Adaptation

Yoga therapy in different cultural contexts

Culturally sensitive practice models

Prevention Studies

Yoga for disease prevention

Preventive healthcare protocols

Partnership Type

Benefits

International Yoga Organizations

Global recognition, Exchange programs, Best practice sharing

Healthcare Institutions

Clinical placement opportunities, Research collaborations

Universities

Academic credit transfer, Higher education pathways

Professional Bodies

Continuing education credits, Professional development

Government Health Departments

Public health program integration, Policy development

Wellness Industry Partners

Employment opportunities, Industry insights