Basic Yoga and Sustainability Program (Level 1) - 50 Hours

Duration: 8 hours (Theory and Practical)

Topics Covered:

• Principle of Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Application to self, society, and environment.
• Eco-Friendly Practices in Daily Life: Reducing plastic use, waste management, mindful consumption.
• Nature and Yoga: Surya namaskar and Yoga’s role in fostering respect and harmony with nature.

Practical Component:

• Guided meditation on connection with the environment.
• Ahimsa-inspired asanas promoting harmony within and without.

Assignments:

• Implement a zero-waste practice in daily life; share experiences in a journal.

Reflect on any one habit you plan to change for sustainability and how yoga supports this change.

Duration: 8 hours (Theory and Practical)

Topics Covered:

• Understanding Climate Change: Causes, impacts, and the need for immediate action.
• Role of Individuals in Climate Action: Small steps for a larger impact.
• Yoga and Mental Health Amidst Climate Crisis: Managing eco-anxiety through yoga.
• Introduction to the LiFE Initiative for Climate Action: Goals and practical applications.

Practical Component:

• Asanas for resilience and inner strength.
• Breathing techniques to manage stress and eco-anxiety.

Assignments:

• Write a short essay on the role of yoga in promoting sustainable practices and combating climate change.
• Research and present one current initiative in climate action that aligns with the principles of yoga and sustainability.

Duration: 6 hours (Theory and Practical)

Topics Covered:

• Mindful Consumption and Simple Living: Reducing material needs and embracing simplicity.
• Eco-Friendly Product Choices: Basics of choosing sustainable products and  services.
• Sustainable Food Practices: Plant-based diets, organic foods, reducing food waste.

Practical Component:

• Yoga nidra for developing awareness and contentment.
• Asanas and  pranayama to promote physical health through mindful nutrition.

Assignments:

• Develop a weekly meal plan that incorporates sustainable food choices.
• Record your shopping habits, aiming to replace at least 3 regular items with eco- friendly alternatives.

Duration: 4 hours (Theory and Practical)

Topics Covered:

• Yoga as a Tool for Community Engagement: Inspiring positive change in others.
• Role of Volunteers in Sustainability Movements: LiFE and other global initiatives.
• Advocacy and Personal Action: How to become an advocate for yoga and sustainability in your own community.

Practical Component:

• Group discussions and role-play on eco-friendly advocacy in office and family.
• Introduction to selfless service (Seva) through community involvement in yoga and sustainability.

Assignments: 

• Develop a mini-project to promote a sustainability practice in your local community (e.g., organize a neighborhood clean-up or a zero-waste workshop).
• Write a reflection on how you see yourself as a contributor to the environmental and wellness movement.

Duration: 4 hours (Practical)

Topics Covered:

• Guided virtual visits to sustainable organizations and projects related to yoga and wellness.
• Case studies of successful sustainability initiatives incorporating yoga principles.

Project Submission:

• Finalize and submit a personal or community action project that integrates both yoga and sustainability practices.
• Present a summary of what was learned throughout the course and personal takeaways.

Assessment 200 marks:

• Online MCQ assessment of 60 marks.
• Reflective assignments and journaling to track personal growth.
• Final project and online presentation to demonstrate understanding.

Certification:

• Participants will receive a Certificate of Completion from Swasti Yoga Center upon successful completion of all course components.