PHED 128 - Introduction to Yoga

1 Credits: (3 lab)

Course Description
This course is designed to teach the fundamentals of yoga, and to improve the physical and mental well-being through mastery of the body, achieved through yoga exercises, holding postures, proper breathing, and meditation. In addition, this course provides the students with knowledge, experience and strategies to make responsible lifestyle decisions about their health with regard to physical activity, nutrition, weight control, and stress management.

Text
Dykema, Ravi. Yoga for Fitness and Wellness. 2nd ed. Cengage, 2011.

Objectives
The student will be able to:

A. Begin and self-monitor a complete yoga program pertinent to their needs, and goals.

B. Correctly and safely perform yoga exercises.

C. Complete a series of exercises called “asanas” or postures to lengthen and tone muscles, and by stretching to remove tension in the musculoskeletal system.

D. Demonstrate a variety of breathing techniques, such as alternate nostril, diaphragmatic, bellows and abdominal lift to create body awareness and calm the parasympathetic (resting) nervous system.

E. Demonstrate a variety of relaxation techniques, such as skeletal, smooth, imagery, body manipulation and other techniques to achieve inner peace.

F. Evaluate individual progress by recording daily sessions in a journal.

Content
A. Asanas (postures)

B. Breathing techniques

C. Relaxation Techniques

D. Yoga as it pertains to physical and mental health

Student Evaluation
Student evaluation will be based on performance.

Bibliography
Conway, E. and L. Clennell. “Posturing for Inner Peace,” Psychology Today, v27, n4 p50-57. July-August, 1994.

Ford-Kohne, N. Yoga for Flexibility & Relaxation. Diabetes Forecast, v47, n11 p44-50. Nov., 1994.

La Forge, R. Mind-Body Fitness: Encouraging Prospects for Primary and Secondary Prevention. Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, v11, n3 p53-66. April,1997.

Miller Kase, L. Using Your Mind to Heal Your Body (Yoga, Meditation and Biofeedback). American Health For Women, v16, n7 p72-77. September, 1997.

Pullig Schatz, M. Treating Back Pain with Yoga. Natural Health, v26, n1 p86-90. January-February, 1996.

Rees, A. M. The American Yoga Association Wellness Book (Physical Fitness, Exercise, and Sport Medicine). New York: Kensington Publishing, 160pp. 1998.

Sharp, D. Stretching for Strength: Power Yoga Gives You a Perfect Balance. Health, v10, n4 p88-94. July-August, 1996.