The Science and Practice of Yoga (edX)

You will learn how to practice yoga on the mat as well as in your everyday life using aspects of yoga that are immediately applicable to you. Having taught yoga to thousands of people just like you, we have reduced the practice down to the nectar of what really works.

Your team of instructors brings a dynamic blend of science and practice to the course. Stacy and Dave Dockins own four yoga studios in Texas and have trained hundreds of instructors to teach yoga as a life-transforming practice rooted in mindfulness. Dr. Catherine Spann and Dr. George Siemens are researching what it means to be human in a digital age at the University of Texas at Arlington’s LINK Research Lab. With years of experience in online education and psychological research, they bring expertise in learning and well-being in the digital age.

This course is for anyone interested in learning the science and practice of yoga. No previous yoga experience is needed! We welcome those who are interested in learning the basics of yoga postures as well as experienced yoga practitioners or instructors looking to deepen their practice.

By signing up for this course, you will have the opportunity to meet and discuss yoga and meditation with people from across the world. Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to sign up with you!

What you'll learn

- How the digital age impacts your well-being

- Yoga postures and navigating a yoga class

- How to use yoga to find balance in your life

- Research findings on yoga

- Meditation and breath awareness

Syllabus

Week 1: The Practice of Yoga

Introduction to yoga, postures, meditation, and beginning your personal practice.

Week 2: Being Well in a Digital Age

Introduction to the stressors of hectic modern technological society and the ways these impact our health.

Week 3: The Science of Yoga

An overview of the research around yoga and how it impacts us mentally and physically.

Week 4: Stress: Survive and Thrive

An overview of the stress response and using mindfulness and self-compassion to counteract stress

Week 5: Linking Body and Mind

Details the relationship between mind and body and the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.

Week 6: The Yoga of Social Connection

How connectedness to others, to the yoga practice, and to ourselves improves our quality of life.