Have you ever wondered about the amazing connection between yoga and human physiology? Would you like to explore the therapeutic benefits of yoga and meditation in managing chronic illnesses? If so, then you are in the right place! Welcome to “Engineering Health: Introduction to Yoga and Physiology,” an insightful online course that delves into the profound relationship between yoga and overall wellness.

Course Overview

What is “Engineering Health: Introduction to Yoga and Physiology”?

“Engineering Health: Introduction to Yoga and Physiology” is a comprehensive online course designed to provide you with an in-depth understanding of human physiological systems and their connection to yoga practices. Led by experienced instructors Alexandra Seidenstein, Eddie Stern, and Tommy Lee, this course offers a unique perspective on health and wellness through the lens of yoga, meditation, and mindfulness.

Who This Course is For?

This course caters to a diverse audience, including yoga practitioners and teachers seeking to deepen their knowledge of yoga’s therapeutic potential. Additionally, college students and medical practitioners who wish to explore the physiological benefits of yoga will find immense value in this course. Whether you have prior experience in yoga or not, this course welcomes participants of all levels.

Course Objectives

Through this course, you will:

• Identify the role, structure, and function of various human physiological systems.
• Recognize the conditions and presentations of normal and abnormal physiological functioning.
• Gain insights into the underlying physiological mechanisms connecting yoga practices to overall health.
• Learn and practice yoga techniques targeting therapy, prevention, and wellness.

Benefits of Enrolling

Enrolling in “Engineering Health: Introduction to Yoga and Physiology” offers numerous advantages. By joining this course, you will:

• Understand the profound impact of yoga on reducing stress and aiding in healing physiological pathologies.
• Explore different physiological systems and discover how yoga can influence and reduce pathology.
• Analyze scientific studies that successfully utilize yoga practice for treating various illnesses, including hypertension, stress, diabetes, insomnia, chronic pain, and PTSD.
• Benefit from comprehensive lectures, weekly yoga practices, suggested readings, and optional discussions, allowing you to tailor your learning experience.
• Gain hands-on experience and alternative health perspectives for a deeper scientific understanding of this ancient healing method.

What You’ll Gain

Understanding Human Physiological Systems

The course begins by offering a basic understanding of the trillions of cells that constitute our body. You will explore the functioning components of cells, including energy production and signaling networks. This knowledge will help you comprehend cell stress and its associated pathologies. The yoga component in this module introduces fundamental practices to build healthier cell programming and reduce cellular stress.

Exploring Normal and Abnormal Functioning

In the next phase, you will dive into genetics and epigenetics to explore their role in maintaining healthy chromosomes and genetic regulation. By understanding how stress affects cells and chromosomal wellbeing, you will appreciate the role of yoga in promoting new regulatory factors.

Connecting Yoga Practice to Health

To appreciate the scientific evidence supporting yoga’s therapeutic benefits, you will analyze peer-reviewed research papers. You will learn how to identify major conclusions and results, offering a deeper insight into the correlation between yoga and health.

Targeting Therapy, Prevention & Wellness

One of the course’s highlights is exploring the components of the nervous system and how yoga and mindfulness practices support proper posture and minimize back pain. You will uncover the role of yoga in aiding various physiological aspects, contributing to overall wellness.

Who This Course is For

This course is tailored for a diverse audience, including:

Yoga Practitioners and Teachers

If you are a yoga enthusiast or a certified yoga teacher seeking to deepen your knowledge and understanding of yoga’s therapeutic potential, this course is perfect for you.

College Students and Medical Practitioners

Aspiring medical professionals, college students, and medical practitioners can benefit greatly from this course, gaining valuable insights into the physiological benefits of yoga and its role in overall well-being.

Anyone Seeking Deeper Understanding of Yoga’s Benefits

Whether you are a complete beginner or someone with a general interest in yoga’s impact on health, this course welcomes participants of all levels who are curious about yoga’s physiological effects.

Stay tuned for the next sections, where we’ll delve into the fascinating modules of this course and explore how each aspect enhances your understanding of yoga and its therapeutic powers.

Module 1: Cell Biology and Yoga

In this module, you will embark on an exciting journey into the intricate workings of the human body at a cellular level. The lecture will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the functioning components of cells, including energy production and signaling networks. Understanding how cells work and their purpose is essential to comprehend cell stress and related pathologies. The yoga component in this module introduces you to the basics of yoga practice, allowing you to begin building healthier cell programming and reducing cellular stress.

Did you know that the human body is composed of trillions of cells, each with its own unique role? These tiny building blocks play a crucial role in our overall well-being. Think of them as the foundation of your health, and just like a strong foundation supports a sturdy building, healthy cells contribute to a robust and resilient body.

By exploring the fascinating world of cellular biology, you’ll gain insights into the energy production and signaling networks that keep these cells functioning harmoniously. Just like a symphony, where each instrument plays its part, cells work together to orchestrate the masterpiece of life.

But what happens when these cells face stress? Stress can disrupt the delicate balance within the cells, leading to various physiological imbalances and health issues. This is where yoga comes into play. Through yoga practice, you’ll learn to restore balance and harmony within your cells, promoting overall well-being.

Module 2: Genetics and Epigenetics in Yoga

Genetics, the study of genes and heredity, holds a key to unlocking the secrets of our biological makeup. In this module, we’ll delve into the basics of genetics to understand how our genes influence our health and well-being. But that’s not all – we’ll also explore the fascinating world of epigenetics and how it can be influenced by stress and other external factors.

Your genes act as a blueprint for your body, guiding its growth and development from the moment of conception. However, did you know that your genes are not set in stone? Enter epigenetics – the study of changes in gene activity that don’t involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence.

Imagine your genes as a dynamic canvas, and epigenetics as the paintbrush that adds beautiful strokes of color to express different traits and characteristics. Stress, lifestyle, and other environmental factors can influence these epigenetic changes, creating a unique canvas for each individual.

Through yoga practice, you’ll discover how to promote positive epigenetic changes, leading to better health and well-being. By understanding how stress can impact our genes, you’ll gain valuable insights into how yoga can serve as a powerful tool for promoting new regulatory factors, positively impacting your genes’ expression.

Module 3: Analyzing Scientific Research in Yoga

Science is the backbone of modern knowledge, and understanding scientific research is crucial for unraveling the mysteries of the human body. In this module, we’ll break down a scientific article to better understand its components and the discoveries it holds. You’ll learn how to analyze the different sections of a peer-reviewed research paper and identify major conclusions and results.

Scientific research serves as a guiding light, illuminating our path towards understanding the world around us. In the realm of yoga and its physiological effects, peer-reviewed research papers provide evidence and insights that enrich our understanding.

By learning how to analyze scientific papers, you’ll be equipped to explore the wealth of knowledge available in the scientific community. You’ll develop the skills to distinguish reliable sources of information, enabling you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.

Module 4: Nervous System and Mindfulness

The nervous system is the master conductor of your body, coordinating its various functions and responses. In this module, we’ll embark on a journey into the complexities of the nervous system – from its cellular components to its physiological impact. Additionally, we’ll explore how yoga and mindfulness practices can aid this intricate system, supporting proper posture and minimizing back pain.

Imagine the nervous system as a vast network of interconnected roads, with messages zipping back and forth like cars on a highway. Every thought, action, and sensation you experience is a result of the messages transmitted by this intricate network.

Mindfulness, on the other hand, is like a calming breeze that soothes the busy traffic of thoughts and emotions. Through yoga and mindfulness practices, you’ll learn to support the proper functioning of your nervous system, promoting physical and mental well-being.

Module 5: Respiratory System and Stress Reduction

Breathing – an essential yet often overlooked aspect of our existence. In this module, we’ll explore the molecular functioning of breathing and uncover the role of the respiratory system in reducing stress. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the connection between breathing and physiological well-being, and the yoga techniques that can optimize your respiratory health.

Breathing is so much more than just taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. It serves as a bridge between our mind and body, impacting our mental state and physical well-being. Have you ever noticed how taking deep, conscious breaths can instantly calm your mind and relax your body?

Yoga offers a treasure trove of breathing techniques that can positively influence your respiratory system. By exploring these techniques, you’ll gain the power to reduce stress and enhance your overall health and well-being.

Module 6: Cardiovascular System and Heart Health

The cardiovascular system is the lifeline of your body, responsible for transporting essential nutrients and oxygen to every cell. In this module, we’ll provide an overview of the main components of this intricate system and the mechanisms behind muscle contraction. Additionally, we’ll feature an interview with Dr. Marshall Hagins, who will discuss the role of yoga and meditation in supporting cardiovascular health.

Imagine your cardiovascular system as a bustling city with a well-organized transportation system. Blood, the carrier of life, flows through the streets like traffic, ensuring that every corner of your body receives the nourishment it needs.

Yoga and meditation act like skilled traffic controllers, optimizing the flow of blood and promoting cardiovascular health. Through movement and meditation, you’ll learn to increase circulation, boost your heart rate, and enhance the efficiency of your cardiovascular system.

Module 7: Lymphatic and Immune Systems

The lymphatic and immune systems work hand in hand, protecting your body from harmful invaders and maintaining a state of balance. In this module, we’ll provide an overview of the main components of the lymphatic system, including vessels, glands, and lymph components. We’ll also explore the immune system’s primary components and their role in maintaining your health. These interconnected systems are essential to understand lymph circulation and the impact of yoga in addressing autoimmune diseases and inflammation.

Imagine the lymphatic system as your body’s internal defense mechanism, with lymph vessels acting like roads, and lymph components like security personnel, protecting your health.

Yoga, with its sweeping movements and calming postures, serves as a gentle breeze, promoting lymphatic circulation and supporting a healthy immune system. As you explore these yoga practices, you’ll discover how they can boost your immune response and contribute to overall well-being.

Module 8: Musculoskeletal System and Yoga

The musculoskeletal system serves as the framework of your body, providing support, movement, and protection. In this module, we’ll dive deep into the physiology of this system on both macro and micro levels. You’ll learn how yoga and meditation can lay the foundation for a strong and healthy musculoskeletal system. Additionally, we’ll feature an interview with Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Michael Seidenstein, who will provide insights into how yoga can help treat and prevent orthopedic injuries.

Imagine the musculoskeletal system as the infrastructure of your body – the bones, muscles, and connective tissues collaborating to create a masterpiece of movement.

Yoga acts as an architect, designing personalized blueprints for building a strong musculoskeletal foundation. By engaging in yoga practices, you’ll learn to strengthen your muscles, improve flexibility, and protect yourself from potential injuries.

Module 9: Renal System and Kidney Health

The renal system, with its intricate network of nephrons, plays a vital role in maintaining fluid balance and filtering waste from your body. In this module, we’ll explore the functioning components of the renal system and how nephrons work. By understanding this system’s purpose, you’ll gain valuable insights into pathologies such as high blood pressure. The yoga component in this module focuses on forward and back bends that promote kidney health.

Imagine the renal system as a series of intricate filters, each working meticulously to ensure that your body maintains the right fluid balance and disposes of waste efficiently.

Yoga, like a cleansing river, supports the optimal functioning of your renal system. Through forward and back bends, you’ll learn to stimulate your kidneys, promoting kidney health and maintaining blood pressure.

Module 10: Digestive System and Yoga

The digestive system is the gateway through which your body receives essential nutrients and energy. In this module, we’ll explore the purpose and structure of digestive organs, including the role of their accessory organs in digestion. Additionally, we’ll provide an overview of some digestive system pathologies and how yoga can enhance treatment.

Imagine your digestive system as a well-orchestrated banquet, where different organs and enzymes collaborate to transform food into nourishment.

Yoga serves as the harmonious conductor, guiding the symphony of your digestive process. Through movement and relaxation, you’ll learn to aid your digestive system, promoting healthy digestion and enhancing your overall well-being.

Module 11: Endocrine and Reproductive Systems

The endocrine system acts as the body’s messaging system, controlling the release of hormones that regulate various physiological processes. In this module, we’ll provide an overview of the main components of the endocrine system, including hormones, glands, and tissues/organs affected. We’ll also explore the impact of long-term stress with an in-depth description of the HPA Axis. The yoga component in this module focuses on relaxing movements to decrease stress and promote a healthy endocrine system.

Imagine your endocrine system as an intricate communication network, with hormones acting like messengers, transmitting important instructions throughout your body.

Yoga, like a skilled conductor, balances the symphony of hormones, ensuring that they work in harmony to promote health. Through relaxing movements, you’ll learn to decrease stress and support a healthy endocrine system.

Module 12: Physiology of Stress Response

Stress – a universal aspect of modern life. In this module, we’ll explore the physiological understanding of the stress response. You’ll gain insights into stress’s impact, controlled by the sympathetic nervous system and the HPA axis. Additionally, we’ll feature an interview with Dr. Marshall Hagins, who will discuss the effects of stress on general health and pain. The yoga component in this module introduces breathing and meditation techniques to decrease chronic stress and improve overall health.

Imagine your body as a finely tuned orchestra, with the sympathetic nervous system acting as the conductor, guiding your body’s response to stress.

Yoga, with its soothing melodies of breathing and meditation, helps to balance the symphony of stress response, reducing chronic stress and promoting overall health.

Module 13: Integrating Health and Wellness

In this module, we’ll integrate everything you’ve learned so far to enhance your overall health and wellness. The focus of this module is on practicing a short but complete yoga routine that you can incorporate into your daily or weekly life. This yoga practice was designed as part of a hypertension and yoga study, where it demonstrated the ability to reduce hypertension. Integrating this complete practice into your life is a practical summary of everything you’ve learned throughout the course.

Imagine this module as the grand finale of a symphony, where all the instruments come together to create a harmonious melody.

The yoga practice presented in this module is like a beautiful dance – a fusion of movement, breath, and mindfulness. By incorporating this practice into your life, you’ll experience the culmination of all the knowledge and experiences gained throughout the course, promoting your overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing “Engineering Health: Introduction to Yoga and Physiology”! We hope this course has provided you with a profound understanding of the physiological benefits of yoga and its role in reducing stress.

As you continue your journey towards better health and wellness, remember that the power of yoga lies within you. Embrace the knowledge and practices you’ve gained, and let them guide you towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Namaste.

FAQs

1. Q: Is this course suitable for beginners with no prior yoga experience? A: Absolutely! “Engineering Health: Introduction to Yoga and Physiology” welcomes participants of all levels, including beginners with no prior yoga experience. The course offers a comprehensive introduction to yoga and its physiological benefits.
2. Q: Can I take this course even if I’m not a yoga teacher or medical practitioner? A: Yes, you can! This course is designed for a diverse audience, including individuals with a general interest in yoga and its impact on health. Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast or someone curious about yoga’s benefits, you’ll find valuable insights in this course.
3. Q: Are financial aid options available for this course? A: Yes, financial aid is available for eligible participants. Coursera Plus members can access this course as part of their subscription.
4. Q: How much time should I dedicate to this course each week? A: The course is designed to be flexible, allowing you to learn at your own pace. On average, dedicating 3-5 hours per week should provide a rewarding learning experience.
5. Q: Can I access the course material after completion? A: Yes, once you’ve enrolled in the course, you’ll have access to the course material even after completing it. You can revisit the material and practice the yoga routines whenever you like.