The Demand for Proficient Yoga Practitioners is Rising Fast

Yashpal Sihag, an adept skill development professional working across Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana, spearheads the MSPL-Personnel Certification Body in Jaipur, acclaimed as a Center of Excellence in Yoga. This institution meticulously examines and certifies aspiring yoga instructors, trainers, and therapists through rigorous written and practical assessments. Bolstered by dedicated, highly qualified assessors, MSPL delivers client-focused certifications efficiently and economically.

Marking the 10th International Day of Yoga, senior journalist P. Srinivasan of The Interview World engages in an illuminating dialogue with Yashpal Sihag. Sihag delves into the profound impact of yoga certification programs on job creation. Herein lie the pivotal insights from their compelling exchange.

Q: What inspired you to establish this certification center, and what goals do you aim to achieve with it?

A: The global embrace of yoga surged following the United Nations‘ designation of June 21 as International Yoga Day in 2014. This catalyzed a sharp rise in demand for certified yoga teachers and therapists worldwide. Addressing this imperative, the Yoga Certification Board (YCB), instituted under the Ministry of AYUSH in March 2018, assumes pivotal significance.

Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to propagate India’s ancient yogic wisdom globally with rigorous standards, Modish Services Pvt. Ltd. (MSPL) boldly established itself as the inaugural Personal Certification Body in Jaipur in December 2019, pioneering this initiative in Rajasthan.

As a committed practitioner of yoga myself, I discerned the mounting need for qualified professionals. This impelled the founding of MSPL, aimed at augmenting the availability of authentic yoga instructors while upholding exacting standards. Our mandate at MSPL is resolutely focused on spearheading excellence in yoga certification.

Q: What is the role of your certification body in ensuring compliance and maintaining standards?

A: Numerous entities, designated as Personal Certification Bodies (PrCBs), both within India and abroad, are entrusted with conducting the rigorous Yoga Certification Exams. Candidates are also free to approach any of these bodies to register and sit for their examinations. These PrCBs, exemplified by MSPL, are duly authorized to conduct comprehensive assessments of yoga professionals across levels 1, 2, and 3 in the esteemed Yoga Education and Training category. Moreover, they actively facilitate continuous yoga education (CYE) programs for aspiring candidates.

MSPL, in particular, prides itself on its cadre of devoted and immensely qualified assessment personnel. They deliver bespoke certification solutions with utmost efficiency and a judicious eye on cost-effectiveness.

Q: What courses are available for becoming a certified yoga professional?

A: There are no age or qualification constraints; eligibility hinges solely on basic literacy skills. The courses offered span a wide spectrum: from yoga protocol instructor, yoga wellness instructor, and yoga teacher and evaluator, to advanced roles like yoga master, assistant yoga therapist, yoga therapist, and therapeutic yoga consultant. Additionally, opportunities exist for those inclined towards community service as yoga volunteers. Each course equips individuals with specialized knowledge and practical training essential for their respective roles within the yoga community. This inclusive approach ensures that aspiring candidates, regardless of background or experience, can embark on a transformative journey in yoga education and practice.

Q: Is the certification recognized and accepted internationally?

A: The Government of India champions a transformative scheme aimed at empowering certified yoga professionals. These esteemed instructors, endorsed by the prestigious Yoga Certification Board, wield authoritative teaching credentials recognized globally. Certification, valid for a robust 5 years, necessitates proactive engagement in CYE programs before expiration. Through meticulous assessment at CYEP sessions, these dedicated professionals may secure an extension of their certification for life, reflecting their ongoing commitment to excellence. Alternatively, based on evaluation outcomes, they may be advised to participate in further CYEP sessions to refine their skills and deepen their expertise in the ancient art of yoga.

Q: What are the various career opportunities and job roles available for yoga professionals?

A: The burgeoning global embrace of yoga has significantly heightened the demand for proficient yoga practitioners worldwide. Job prospects have markedly flourished, both domestically and internationally, offering expansive opportunities in India and abroad. Moreover, government educational institutions, universities, and corporate entities alike are zealously enlisting yoga experts for their personnel. This trend underscores yoga’s expanding role beyond wellness circles, positioning it as a pivotal discipline sought after across diverse sectors globally.

Q: What are some effective yoga asanas that can be performed daily in a short amount of time for someone with a busy schedule?

A: The common yoga protocol prescribes Institutional Yoga Practices (IYP) within a concise 15-minute window, encompassing essential elements like pranayama, dhyana, yoga nidra, and satsanga. Claiming insufficient time is a fallacy; every individual can dedicate a mere 15 minutes daily to their holistic health. Regular yoga practice serves as a potent shield against various ailments while concurrently fostering a resilient and optimistic mindset, thereby enhancing overall well-being and vitality.

Q: Could you inform how many candidates have been issued certificates so far?

A: Since December 2019, MSPL has conferred certificates upon a formidable cohort exceeding 12,000 candidates. This is a testament to our commitment and accomplishment in our rigorous certification programs.