Yoga as career choice

Ranjan K Baruah *

The COVID-19 pandemic means that many of us are staying at home and also working from home. There are people who are sitting down more than we usually do.

It has become difficult for many people to come out and do regular exercises as there are containment zones in and around. There are issues which cannot be seen directly as most might be mental health issues due to lock down. People are talking about improving immunity to fight the pandemic and keeping one self fit.

Yoga has become demanded during this pandemic as it not only helps in enhancing immunity but also helps in mental well being. This pandemic and time of crisis, we have seen the importance of yoga which also brings hope as young people may choose yoga as their career.

Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.

Recognizing its universal appeal, on 11 December 2014, the United Nations proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga by resolution 69/131. The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.

Students may choose to join courses related to yoga after senior secondary or after graduation as there are post graduation courses too. The key subjects of Yoga Theory include- Anatomy, Philosophy, Exercises, Meditation, etc. It is not limited to theory only as it more practical course.

There are courses like Bachelors in Arts (Yoga), Masters in Arts (Yoga), PG Diploma in Yoga Therapy and certificate courses in yoga are also available.

One may also choose to study Bachelor of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences (BNYS), which is again a five-and-a-half-year bachelor’s degree.

To be successful in the field of yoga one must have skills like employability skills which includes effective communication skills, interpersonal skills, patience, etc. One must be physically fit too apart from other soft skills.

There are specialisations like yoga exercises for physical fitness, yoga therapy, etc. Yoga has become more popular around the world after the declaration of the yoga day which brings opportunity for employment for individuals who are trained in this field.

The common designation in this profession is yoga instructor, yoga therapist or yoga teacher. But there are scopes in research, academics, corporate, hospitals, retreats, gyms, etc. Yoga studios are popular not only in India but in abroad too. One may get jobs in government sectors or private sectors like in corporate, educational institutions, etc.

The Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy was established as Registered Society on 30th March, 1978 with the Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare as President of Governing Body.

It is functioning as an autonomous organization under the newly created Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India and fully funded by the Ministry for all its activities. Since inception, the Council is involved in various activities related to the development of these systems in terms of Research, Education, Training and Propagation.

There are institutes like Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga apart from many other institutes which offers diploma and advanced diplomas.

Today the entire world is in fear and gloomy about the COVID- 19 pandemic. At this situation yoga is especially relevant, since its practice leads to both physical and mental wellbeing.

The crisis has bought new hopes for people who wants to make career in yoga . There is no doubt the situation will change but the importance of yoga will be also continuing as people wants to remain healthy.

The best thing is that one may be easily self employed if they have knowledge and qualifications related to yoga.