Cycle Program: Universal, Yet Personal Art of Personalising Yoga Therapy by Dr. Kausthub Desikachar 

A brief Report by Yogasadhaka Nilachal

Introduction
Dr. Kausthub Desikachar is the successor and lineage holder of the Viniyoga tradition, following his grandfather T. Krishnamacharya and father TKV Desikachar. A renowned yoga teacher, therapist, and healer, he integrates classical yogic wisdom with modern therapeutic approaches. Holding a Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Madras, he has trained yoga teachers and therapists globally for over two decades. His work emphasizes holistic healing through asana, pranayama, meditation, mantra, Ayurveda, and psychology. An accomplished author, he has written books like The Heart of Asana and The Yoga of the Yogi while co-founding Synergies in Healing, bridging ancient wisdom with modern science.

The Traditional Concept of Yoga Therapy

Yoga therapy is an ancient system deeply rooted in Indian traditions. Yoga therapy is not merely about addressing physical ailments but about restoring harmony at all levels of existence. Rooted in ancient wisdom, it views health as a state of balance between the body, breath, mind, and spirit. It employs personalized practices, including asana, pranayama, meditation, mantra chanting, and lifestyle modifications, to support healing. The aim is not just to treat illness but to promote overall well-being, guiding individuals toward self-awareness and inner transformation.

Unlike modern medical science, which views health from a physiological standpoint, yoga therapy approaches well-being holistically—addressing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. Traditional yoga therapy works holistically, considering individual Prakriti and imbalances Vikriti.

Origins and Foundations of Yoga Therapy

Yoga is believed to have existed even before the Vedas. References to yoga can be found in the Upanishads such as the Kathopanishad, Taittiriya Upanishad, and Brihadaranyaka Upanishad. However, the most structured and authoritative text on yoga remains Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, which forms the foundation of yoga philosophy and therapy.

Historically, yoga was practiced in different traditions across India. The northern schools, influenced by Shaivism, produced key texts such as Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Shiva Samhita, and Gheranda Samhita. Meanwhile, the southern system followed the teachings of Nathamuni and later evolved into many traditions like the Viniyoga tradition, prominently propagated by T. Krishnamacharya ji.

The Four Major Purposes of Yoga

Yoga was traditionally taught for four primary purposes:

1. Siksana Krama: A method of yoga designed for children to build strength, vitality, and discipline.
2. Raksana Krama: A maintenance system for householders to sustain health amidst daily responsibilities.
3. Chikitsa Krama: The therapeutic application of yoga for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
4. Adhyatmika Krama: A spiritual pursuit guiding individuals toward self-realization and liberation.

Yoga as a Therapy: A Holistic Approach

Unlike Western medicine, which primarily focuses on symptom management, yoga therapy seeks to alleviate suffering on all levels. It is a self-empowering process in which individuals, with the support of a yoga therapist, cultivate a personalized and evolving yoga practice. This approach encourages individuals to take responsibility for their healing by integrating yoga as a complementary, non-invasive, and progressive method. Rather than replacing conventional medical systems, yoga therapy enhances them. In some cases, yoga can be highly effective in prevention or even cure, while in others, it serves as a valuable tool for managing symptoms and improving overall well-being, especially when a complete cure may not be possible through yoga alone.

While some conditions may have cures through other medical systems, certain illnesses, such as mental disabilities, may not be curable by any system. However, yoga therapy can still play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for such individuals, helping them manage their daily lives more effectively. More importantly, yoga therapy facilitates healing on multiple levels—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—ensuring holistic well-being. This multi-dimensional approach to healing is a key aspect of yoga therapy.

Key Concepts in Yoga Therapy

1. Self-Empowerment: Healing is self-directed; the therapist acts as a guide, but the individual must take responsibility for their practice.
2. Holistic Approach: Yoga therapy considers not just the physical body but also emotional, energetic, and spiritual dimensions.
3. Personalization: Yoga therapy is tailored to the individual, rather than applying a standardized approach.
4. Context-Sensitivity: Every individual’s lifestyle, age, and environment are taken into account.
5. Gradual Healing Process: Unlike quick medical treatments, yoga therapy evolves over time.
6. Non-Invasiveness: Yoga therapy uses the body’s own resources without external interventions.

Yogic Models of Health and Disease

In yoga therapy, health and disease are understood through a holistic lens, where balance and harmony determine overall well-being. Disease is viewed as a disharmony or imbalance among the different layers of existence, the three qualities—Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas—as well as any disruptions in the Cakra-s, Prana-s, or Elements. On the other hand, health is achieved when these aspects are in harmony, allowing the body, mind, and energy to function optimally. Essentially, health and disease are seen as a state of either harmony or disharmony within these interconnected systems.

This is why yoga must always be taught on a one-to-one basis, as each individual is unique in every aspect of these models. Our Annamaya, Pranamaya, Manomaya, Vijnanamaya, and Anandamaya differ from one another, just as our balance of Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas varies. Each person’s constitution, or Prakriti, along with their current state of imbalance, or Vikriti, is distinct. Personalized yoga therapy acknowledges these differences, tailoring practices to restore balance and promote overall well-being.

Yoga therapy is rooted in a holistic understanding of health that goes beyond just the physical body. It is based on various yogic models that provide a comprehensive framework for well-being, addressing the interconnected layers of human existence. These models define human health and well-being include. They are:

1. Panchamaya Model: Describes five layers of existence—Annamaya (physical), Pranamaya (energetic), Manomaya (mental), Vijnanamaya (intellectual), and Anandamaya (spiritual).
2. Triguna Model: Balancing the three qualities—Sattva (clarity), Rajas (activity), and Tamas (inertia).
3. Chakra System: Understanding energy centers and their influence on health.
4. Pancha Prana Model: The five vital energies regulating bodily functions.
5. Pancha Bhuta Model: The five-element theory that governs balance in nature and the body.

The Yoga Therapy Model
Derived from Yoga Sutra 2.16, Patanjali presents a structured four-stage approach to addressing suffering, known as the Vyuha Model, which means an arrangement or strategic framework. This model is fundamental to yoga therapy, guiding individuals through a systematic healing process.

1. Heyam (Identification of Symptoms) – The first step in healing is recognizing and accepting suffering. Only when we acknowledge our pain or disease can we begin the journey toward healing. Without this awareness, true transformation cannot take place.
2. Hetu (Identification of Causal Factors) – Once suffering is acknowledged, the next step is to explore its root causes. Understanding the factors that contribute to the condition is crucial, as recognizing the cause is a significant step toward healing.
3. Hanam (Establishing a Reasonable Goal) – After identifying the cause, it is essential to set a realistic and healthy goal for recovery. This goal provides direction and clarity in the healing process.
4. Upayam (Implementing the Means) – The final step is to determine and apply the appropriate yogic tools and techniques to achieve the goal. This could include asana, pranayama, meditation, diet, lifestyle changes, or other therapeutic practices tailored to the individual’s needs.

Since every individual is unique in their Prakriti (constitution) and Vikriti (imbalances), yoga therapy follows this personalized model to ensure a holistic and effective approach to healing. By systematically addressing suffering through these four stages, the Vyuha Model offers a structured pathway to restoring health and well-being.

The Art of Viniyoga Therapy
Viniyoga Therapy, as taught by Dr. Kausthub Desikachar, is a personalized and adaptive approach to healing that respects the uniqueness of each individual. Rooted in the principles of classical yoga, it emphasizes the intelligent application of yogic tools such as asana, pranayama, meditation, and mantra to restore balance at all levels—physical, emotional, and mental.

A key aspect of Viniyoga Therapy is understanding health and disease as a spectrum of balance and imbalance. Symptoms of disease manifest as emotional constriction, negative attitudes, physiological imbalances, disturbances in breathing, and activation of the fight-or-flight response. Conversely, health is reflected in emotional fluidity, positive attitudes, physiological balance, stable breathing, and the ability to shift into a relaxation response.

By addressing these imbalances through customized and progressive practices, Viniyoga Therapy offers a structured yet flexible approach to healing, ensuring that each person receives a practice suited to their unique needs and circumstances.

The Yoga Therapy Framework (Viniyoga Tradition)

The Viniyoga tradition offers a structured approach to therapy:

• Pre-Consultation: Information gathering and consent.
• Consultation & Diagnosis: Understanding the individual’s condition holistically.
• Yoga Therapy Sessions: Personalized training based on needs.
• Home Practice: Daily self-practice for continued healing.
• Review & Feedback: Evaluating progress and adjusting practices.
• Documentation: Maintaining case records for research and refinement.

Yoga Therapist Competencies

The role of a yoga therapist is highly significant, requiring a strong foundation in both knowledge and practical skills. A competent yoga therapist must possess expertise in various domains to effectively guide individuals toward healing and well-being.

1. Thorough Knowledge of Yoga Therapy Foundations: Theory and Practice – A deep understanding of yoga therapy, both in its theoretical concepts and practical applications, is essential for effective therapeutic intervention.
2. Knowledge of Allied Traditional Systems such as Ayurveda – Since many yogic principles are closely connected to Ayurveda, familiarity with its concepts helps therapists integrate holistic healing approaches.
3. Contemporary Biomedical and Psychological Knowledge – In today’s modern world, it is crucial for yoga therapists to have a reasonable understanding of biomedical and psychological concepts. This allows them to comprehend the conditions their clients are experiencing and communicate effectively about symptoms, causes, and potential therapeutic approaches.
4. Observation, Teaching, and Therapeutic Skills – Strong observation skills enable a therapist to assess an individual’s needs accurately, while effective teaching and therapeutic skills ensure that yoga practices are applied correctly and safely. These competencies cannot be learned solely in a classroom but require hands-on experience.
5. Application of Yoga Therapy – Beyond theoretical knowledge, a yoga therapist must be adept at applying yoga therapy principles in real-life situations. Practical training and experience play a crucial role in honing this skill.
6. Research-Minded Documentation Skills – The ability to document therapeutic progress with a research-oriented mindset helps in tracking improvements, refining therapeutic approaches, and contributing to the broader field of yoga therapy.

Since many of these competencies are best developed through direct experience, internship and hands-on training are invaluable components of a yoga therapist’s education. Practical exposure ensures that a therapist not only understands yoga therapy but also applies it effectively to support individuals on their healing journey.
Where Yoga Therapy is Effective ?

Yoga therapy has shown benefits in managing:

• Musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., back pain, arthritis)
• Respiratory issues (e.g., asthma, bronchitis)
• Lifestyle disorders (e.g., diabetes, obesity)
• Stress-related conditions (e.g., hypertension, anxiety)
• Pregnancy care and post-surgery recovery

Limitations of Yoga Therapy
While yoga therapy is powerful, it is not effective for:

• Infectious diseases
• Terminal illnesses like cancer and AIDS
• Severe psychiatric disorders
• Cases where individuals cannot take responsibility for self-care

The Challenge of Modern Yoga Therapy
Today, yoga therapy faces several challenges:

• Lack of standardization in definitions and training.
• Insufficient long-term education programs.
• Over-commercialization of yoga in the West, reducing its holistic essence.
• Misrepresentation of yoga as merely a physical or medical practice.

The Future of Yoga Therapy
Despite these challenges, yoga therapy is gaining recognition through:

• Establishment of competency standards by yoga therapy organizations.
• Research collaborations that validate yoga’s therapeutic benefits.
• Integrative healthcare approaches combining yoga with other systems.
• Increased public awareness about the holistic nature of yoga therapy.

Conclusion

Yoga therapy, deeply rooted in Indian tradition, is a self-empowering system that transcends mere physical health. It integrates mind, body, and spirit to promote true well-being. By preserving its holistic approach, individualized focus, and non-invasive techniques, yoga therapy continues to be an invaluable healing system for modern life.