II MSc students attended a month-long intensive and interactive certificate course in Basics of Yoga Therapy conducted by the Department of Integrative Medicine, NIMHANS, Bengaluru in the month of March 2024. It covered the overall understanding and practice of yoga modules in mental health as an integrative wellness approach. The classes included theory on understanding the ancient physical, mental, and spiritual impact of Yoga on the human mind, body, and behavior. The participants were exposed to extensive research studies on various mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, organic disorders, depression, substance abuse disorders, anxiety disorders, and stress management. The lectures were conducted by experts on subjects and fields from across the world. It also had an insightful perspective of spirituality and the impact of faith and practice in Yoga.
The program included physical demonstration and practice of modules developed to help clients diagnosed with anxiety disorders, panic attacks, depression, psychosis, alcohol abuse, and a stress management module. These modules were well planned and backed with research findings for having an impressive effect on the wellness and quality of life of individuals diagnosed with various mental disorders, as practiced currently in the Integrative Medicine department at NIMHANS, Bangalore. The course ended with a day’s visit to the Department of Integrative Medicine NIMHANS, Bangalore where there was an in-person demonstration of the various modules and a visit to the famous ‘ BRAIN MUSEUM ‘. The outcome of the workshop was the immersive knowledge and experience of the impact of Yoga on mental health and well-being in individuals diagnosed with various conditions. The overall experience was well-encompassed on all grounds of mental health.