CSPH 5319: Yoga & Ayurveda in India
Yoga and Ayurveda are interrelated, ancient, holistic Indian traditions that integrate ethics, spirituality, and healing.
Yoga and Ayurveda are interrelated, ancient, holistic Indian traditions that integrate ethics, spirituality, and healing. While studying with expert practitioners at the University of Minnesota and in India, students will examine the claim that the systematic practice of these traditions promotes healing and optimal health. Using critical thinking, students will investigate scientific evidence for Yoga and Ayurveda and propose additional research needed. Students will synthesize the philosophical, psychological, and ethical teachings of Yoga and Ayurveda with their experiential knowledge in order to meet the course objectives and their own needs personally and professionally.
Students fly from MSP to New Delhi, where they can visit the Taj Mahal in Agra. Students travel by Jeep to Sadhaka Grama Ashram near Rishikesh and study with expert Yoga practitioners. Students will walk along the Ganges River during their free time and visit Vashista Cave. At the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust and Ayurveda Center near Dehradun, they learn about research and integrative care using Yoga and Ayurveda. They return to New Delhi and fly back to MSP.
*With instructor consent, it may be possible to substitute one of the following options:
CSPH 5322: Foundations of Hatha Yoga: Alignment & Movement Principles (3 credits)
OR CSPH 5318: Tibetan Medicine, Ayurveda, and Yoga in India (4 credits)
Additional details: Winter 2026 Dates to be determined
Overview: Yoga and Ayurveda are interrelated, ancient, holistic Indian traditions that integrate ethics, spirituality, and healing. While studying with expert practitioners at the University of Minnesota and in India, students will examine the claim that the systematic practice of these traditions promotes healing and optimal health.
Students fly from MSP to New Delhi, where they can visit the Taj Mahal in Agra. Students will study Yoga at Swami Rama Sadhaka Grama in Rishikesh. Additionally, students will study Ayurveda and receive individual consultations and therapy with Dr. Ravindra Mamgain and Dr. Pratibha Mamgain at The Mamgain Ayurvedic Clinic and Panchkarma Center. During free time, visit Virbhadra Temple, go trekking in foothills of Himalayan Mountains, explore Rishikesh and attend a variety of Yoga class and workshop options.
Course Description: Using critical thinking, students will investigate scientific evidence for Yoga and Ayurveda and propose additional research needed. Students will synthesize the philosophical, psychological, and ethical teachings of Yoga and Ayurveda with their experiential knowledge in order to meet the course objectives and their own needs personally and professionally.
Program Leader: Katie Schuver, PhD, LADC, C-IAYT, E-RYT
Excursions: Excursions include visits to a Sikh temple and sightseeing in New Delhi, the Taj Mahal in Agra, Swami Rama Sadhaka Grama (SRSG) Ashram, Sadhana Mandir Ashram, Mamgain Ayurveda Clinic, Rishikesh, Ganges River, Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Parmarth Niketan, Vashishtha Guha, Kunjapuri Temple and much, more more!
Housing and Meals: Students spend 5 days at New Delhi YWCA in air-conditioned/heated double rooms with twin beds, private bathrooms, and breakfast provided. Students spend 9 days at Sadhaka Grama Ashram in Rishikesh in cottages with twin beds, private bathrooms, and three vegetarian meals daily. Students will also have access to yoga mats, blankets, zen benches, a library, and wi-fi.
The program fee pays for:
4 credits (undergraduate for undergraduates; graduate for graduate students).
60+ hours of instructional time.
International health insurance in India.
Breakfast every day and nearly all other meals in India.
All group classes at the University of Minnesota and in India.
All lodging in India: Each New Delhi YWCA room and Sadhaka Grama Ashram cottage has twin beds, a private bathroom, shower, and Western toilet; students will be matched with a roommate or may specify one.
Group ground transportation in India.
Consultation and Pre-Pancha Karma treatments at Ayurveda Center in India.
Group sightseeing in India.
Service tips and payment for Group activities.
Much more!
Contact [email protected] for additional information.
- Spring