Career in yoga for humanity
Ranjan K Baruah
We are aware that the COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented human tragedy and it brought many challenges for us. Beyond its immediate impact on physical health, the COVID-19 pandemic has also exacerbated psychological suffering and mental health problems, including depression and anxiety, as pandemic-related restrictions were introduced in various forms in many countries. In case we have any issue with our physical health then we have the option to do a different check up but for mental health there are not many tests available. It means taking care of our mental health is important and in this case preventive measures are the best way out.
One of the best things to prevent many diseases and stay fit is getting engaged in yoga. People around the world embraced yoga to stay healthy and rejuvenated and to fight social isolation and depression even during pandemic time. The essence of yoga is balance - not just balance within the body or that between the mind and the body, but also balance in the human relationship with the world.
Yoga can be an important instrument in the collective quest of humanity for promoting sustainable lifestyle in harmony with planet Earth. In keeping with this spirit, the theme for this year’s Yoga Day celebrations was “Yoga for Humanity.” We know that 21st June is observed as Yoga Day around the world.
Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word ‘yoga’ derived from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness. Today it is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity.
There are different courses available starting from degree to diploma or advanced diploma and aspirants may choose and take up courses according to their interest or choices. Some of the most sought courses may be as follows: Certificate Course in Yoga (CCY); Bachelor in Arts (Yoga Philosophy); Diploma in Yoga Education; PG. Diploma in Yoga Therapy; Master of Arts in Yoga; Advanced Yoga Teachers’ Training Course in Yoga (AYTTC), etc. One may choose and join the courses after senior secondary or after completing graduation.
Few institutes offering different courses and programmes related to Yoga includes Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, The Yoga Institute, Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute, Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute, Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram,Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram, Bihar School of Yoga, Brahma Kumari Center, Phool Chatti Ashram, Yoga Niketan Ashram, Integral Yoga Institute, Isha Yoga Center, Amritapuri Ashram, Shri Ambika Yoga Kutir,Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana or VYASA, Mathatitu Yoga Ashram, etc .
One may choose a different place of engagement according to their expertise. Few areas where one can be an expert may be yoga exercises for physical fitness, spiritual yoga, yoga therapy, yoga for kids, yoga for elders, toga for the corporate, etc. One may join some institutes of health centers or may start their own yoga studio and become self-employed. Yoga day has helped us in reaching out to many countries which is bringing advantages for experts to work even outside India.