Centre for Yoga Therapy, Education and Research

IDY National Seminar-cum-Workshop at SBV, Pondicherry 2017

Chief Patrons Shri MK RAJAGOPALAN Founder Chairman SBECPT and Chancellor Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth

Dr. PRASHANTH RAJAGOPALAN Vice Chairman SBECPT

Patrons Prof. KR SETHURAMAN

Prof. N ANANTHAKRISHNAN

Vice-Chancellor, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth

Dean, Research &Allied Health Sciences, SBV

Advisory Panel Prof. AR Srinivasan Registrar SBV

Prof. M Ravishankar

Dean Faculty of Medicine, SBV

Prof. PF Kotur Dean, SSSMC&RI

Prof. K Renuka

Prof. V Nirmal Coumare Medical Superintendent, MGMC&RI

Prof. Saravana Kumar

Dean Faculty of Nursing, SBV

Principal (i/c), IGIDS

Prof. Madanmohan

Emeritus Professor Physiology & Yoga Therapy

Organizing Chairman Prof. K Jaiganesh

Organizing Secretary Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani

Prof & HOD Physiology, MGMC&RI

Director, CYTER

Coordinator Dr. Meena Ramanathan

Treasurer Shri G Dayanidy

Deputy Director, CYTER

Lecturer, CYTER

IDY Core Team Dr. Mahalakshmi, VP (Curriculum), MGMCRI Dr. Partha Nandi, VP (Students), MGMCRI Dr. AN Uma, VP, Allied Health Sciences, SBV Dr. R Sobana, Physiology Dept, MGMCRI Dr. Jeneth Berlin Raj, Physiology Dept, MGMCRI Smt. MB Josephine, Senior Student Counselor, SBV Shri. P Dhanushapnadeesh, CYTER Smt. Priya Philip, Junior Student Counselor, SBV

Smt Asha Suresh Babu, GM Admin, SBV Sri Joseph Naresh, Deputy Registrar, SBV Sri Kannan Iyer, GM Finance, SBV Prof. BV Adkoli, MEU, SBV Dr. TS Balaji, IGIDS Ms Ambika R, KGNC Smt. G Sarulatha, CYTER Dr. A Sanguida, IGIDS & CYTER

Seminar-cum-Workshop Committee Dr. Nikhilesh Singh, Dr. Richa Gupta, Dr. Suchitra Sachin Palve, Dr. Devi R Nithya, Mr. S Vasanthan, Dr. S Selvakumar, Mr. P Uthiravelu, Mr C Hema Sankar, Dr. R Balaji, Mr. S Artchoudane, Mrs. S Lavanya, Mrs. B Anita, Mr. T Sadish Kumar, Mrs. S Vidyasri, Ms. Shwethika Kaul, Mr. P Lakshman Pratap, Mrs. V Uma Maheshwari, Mrs. R Kavitha, Mrs. Mangala Gowri, Dr. V Yuvaraj, and Ms. Ranjitha. 2

“Role of Yoga in Prevention, Management and Rehabilitation of Chronic Diseases”

S.No

INDEX

Pg No.

1.

Messages

4

2.

From the desk of Organizing Chairman

16

3.

From the desk of Organizing Secretary

17

4.

Invitation and scientific programme

18

5.

A brief introduction to our esteemed CME faculty

22

6.

Yoga: An Ancient Life Style Suitable for Modern Man by Yogacharini Smt Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani

32

7.

Spiritual Factor in Healing by Professor KR Sethuraman

33

8.

Yoga as Plastic Surgery by Professor Ramesh Bijlani

35

9.

Role of Yoga in Elderly Population and Chronic Diseases by Prof. Madanmohan

36

10.

Living a Spiritually Healthy Life Through Yoga by Yogacharya Aravinda Koithyar

38

11.

Vedic Chanting in Yoga Therapy by Mrs Evelyn Einhaeuser

45

12.

Research Studies on the Role of Yoga in Chronic Diseases by Dr Meena Ramanathan and Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani

47

13.

Resilience as an Antidote to Chronic Diseases: Possible Role of Yoga by Dr Meena Ramanathan and Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani

52

14.

Yoga Therapy for Chronic Diseases: Psychosomatic Aspects by Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani and Dr Meena Ramanathan

57

15.

Role of Yoga in Cardiac Disorders: Clinical Perspective by Professor B Amirtha Ganesh

64

16.

Role of Yoga in Chronic Disorders: Community Perspective by Professor K A Narayan

65

17.

Managing Chronic Disorders: Yoga Therapy Perspective by Dr Meena Ramanathan

66

18.

Innovative aspects of CYTER

67

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MESSAGE FROM THE HONORABLE FOUNDER CHAIRMAN AND CHANCELLOR SBV It gives me immense pleasure that our University, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth is actively organising various events in commemoration of the 3rd International Day of Yoga 2017. Our Honb’le Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi has said during his address to the UN General Assembly that “Yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfilment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well-being. It is not about exercise but to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature. By changing our lifestyle and creating consciousness, it can help us deal with climate change.” The Concept of Complementary Medicine is gaining significance in our day-to-day therapeutical management. Yoga Day is celebrated to let people know that regular Yoga practice leads to the better mental, physical and intellectual health. It positively changes the lifestyle of the people and increase the level of well-being.I am sure that Centre for Yoga Therapy Education and Research (CYTER) of SBV is playing a vital role in creating awareness of Yoga and its therapeutical uses among the public and patients by its various outreach programmes in coordination with various Government departments and NGOs. Apart from this it imparts Yoga Education and Research on Yoga at various levels by offering courses ranging from Certificate to Doctoral programmes. CYTER is also recognized for its rehabilitative works in patient care and health management. I wish the ‘Team CYTER’ all success for various programmes and events to be organized from 19th to 23rd June 2017 as part of 3rd International Day of Yoga celebrations. M.K.Rajagopalan Founder Chairman & Chancellor Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth

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MESSAGE FROM THE VICE CHANCELLOR India is the "Disease-Capital of the World" for quite a few diseases, which is regrettable and unfortunate; one out of every two adults has at least one chronic illness, many of which are preventable. As a nation, we need to move from a disease-oriented system of health care delivery to one focused on wellnesspromotion and illness-prevention. We need to realize that good health is not just high medical care; good health is to try and stop a disease before it starts; good health also comes from safe air and water, safe outdoor spaces for physical activity, safe workplaces, healthy foods, safe and violence-free communities and homes. Therefore, prevention should be an integral part of our lives, including where and how we live, learn, work and play. Everyone—business houses, educators, health care institutions, government, communities and every single citizen—has a role in creating a healthier nation.Fortunately for us, India is also the "Yoga Capital of the World". Yogic practices and yoga therapy are scientifically proven safe and effective methods of promoting wellness. To train doctors and students of healthsciences to incorporate mind-body techniques of yoga into their practice in an integrative and holistic manner has been done by CYTER at SBVU. Similar initiatives are ongoing throughout the globe. In this context, I am glad that Team-CYTER has organised a National Seminar on the role of Yoga in chronic diseases, as a part of its week-long commemoration of international Yoga Day, 2017. Conferences like the present one are necessary to share our successes and failures so that the mind-body wellness is not limited to a lucky few but is perceived by all humanity, including those with chronic disorders. I wish the meticulously planned conference of CYTER a successful outcome. Prof KR Sethuraman, MD. VC & Professor of Medicine, SBV

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MESSAGE FROM THE REGISTRAR IDY is a great initiative of our Hon'ble Prime Minister of India that has been accepted with glee by the comity of nations. At Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, IDY 2017 will be an impressive revelation. Spearheaded by the Respected Dean, Research and Allied Health Sciences Prof. N. Ananthakrishnan and with the bountiful blessings of the Hon'ble Chancellor, Sri M.K. Rajagopalan and Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. K. R.Sethuraman, the young, dynamic and ebullient Director of CYTER Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani backed by his able team has embarked on an impressive itinerary of events that are to be hosted from the 19th to the 23rd of June, 2017. I take great pleasure in inviting you all to partake of these events and embrace the yogic way of life in our own small and humble way. Hail IDY 2017 at SBV. Prof. AR Srinivasan Registrar Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth

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MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN RESEARCH AND ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES I am very happy to know that the Center for Yoga Therapy, Education and Research, SBV has planned a grand celebration of the 3rd International Day of Yoga with numerous events from 19 - 23 June 2017. The events include Awareness Programmes, Mass Yoga Demonstrations, Regional Level Yogasana Competitions for students of HPE institutions and a National Seminar-cum-workshop on “Role of Yoga in Chronic Diseases”. Right from its inception, SBV has been in the forefront in the field of innovations and newly emerging areas of medical sciences so that it becomes part of the exploring group along the advancing borders of modern science – in the words from the famous serial Star trek “to boldly go where no man has been before.” SBV is one of the first to introduce post graduate programs in Yoga Therapy from certificate to doctoral level and these are unique as they are probably the first Choice Base Credit System courses in Yoga therapy conducted within a medical institution. CYTER has been actively promoting Yoga amongst students of our university and SBV is one of the first to comply with latest guidelines from UGC and other regulatory bodies by including yoga training in the medical, dental and nursing curriculum. The CYTER team has been doing tremendous work in the field of Yoga Education, Research and Therapy in our University and this has helped place our work on the world map. The importance of Yoga as an intervention in health has now come to be universally recognized and I am sure the weeklong IDY 2017 celebrations would go a long way in drawing the attention to this fact and will benefit the community and the University. I wish the IDY 2017 celebrations all success. Prof. N Ananthakrishnan Dean – Research and Allied Health Sciences Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth

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MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN, FACULTY OF MEDICINE It gives me great pleasure that an International Day of Yoga Celebrations 2017 Organized by centre for Yoga Therapy, Education & Research (CYTER) at MGMCRI under auspices of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry from 19th till 23rd June 2017. Our Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi has urged the world community to adopt an International Day of Yoga during United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, 2014. He had said that Yoga is an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between man and nature and a holistic approach to health and well-being. I am happy that CYTER is taking a lead within matter and many awareness programmes both for Public / Medical & Paramedical Students are being held in the campus as well as taking part in Govt. organized programmes. I also welcome the National President of IMA Dr. KK AGGARWAL and the eminent resource persons to this programme. I wish the function every success. Prof. M Ravishankar Dean, Faculty of Medicine MGMC&RI, SBV

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MESSAGE FROM THE MEDICAL SUPERINTENDENT Its pleasure and pride to witness the CYTER grow in all length and breadth by exploring its strength to contribute towards patient care, academics and research. The grand celebrations planned from 19 to 23 June for the International Day of Yoga 2017 is commendable and their National Seminar and CME on “Role of Yoga in chronic diseases” is very timely. I wish the programme a great success and appreciate the team CYTER for their relentless efforts in conducting this event. Prof. V NirmalCoumare Medical Superintendent, MGMC&RI

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Dr KK Aggarwal. MD National President, IMA and Heart Care Foundation of India Padma Shri Awardee

Parasympathetic Life Style Parasympathetic mode is the resting, rejuvenating and healing mode of the body and presents with slower breathing, slower resting heart rate, positive thoughts and reduced negativity of the mind. On the other hand, sympathetic mode is the wear and tear mode presenting with stress and increased heart rate with increases respiratory rate. Yoga is nothing but a process of shifting one from sympathetic to parasympathetic mode. The eight limbs of yoga as described in Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are also the modern medicine ways of shifting one’s awareness and the mode. Yama and Niyama are the do and don’ts of universal life style. Asanas are the parasympathetic mode of postures. Pranayama is parasympathetic mode of breathing. Pratyahara is withdrawal from external and internal noise. Dharana is the intention to do any work. Dhyana is the concentration on the work and Samadhi is getting absorbed in that work. Parasympathetic state of mind or mind fullness life style can help one shift from sympathetic to parasympathetic mode. No pharmaceutical drug can act in the body without a receptor. Receptors are like a lock which requires a key to open to work as a drug. God never made receptors for pharma companies to make the keys. The very fact there are receptors in the body, the body has the capacity to make each and every drug. External drugs are required only when the internal keys are lost or needs repair. Repair of the keys happens only in parasympathetic mode of life with the involvement of the soul or consciousness. Yogic life style therefore when combined with modern medicine can help in self-healing and reduction in duration of treatment and reduced quantity of drugs. Meditation work at the level of void, beyond the energy waves and can synchronise the disturbed waves of conciseness with the undisturbed state of consciousness. Meditation work at the level of void and beyond the energy ways it can synchronisms the disturbed waves of conciseness.

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AMMAJI, Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani Director ICYER at Ananda Ashram and YoganjaliNatyalayam, Pondicherry. www.icyer.com

MESSAGE OF BLESSINGS It recognized that Yoga “provides a holistic approach to health and well-being” and that wider dissemination of information about benefits of practicing Yoga would be beneficial for the health of the world population. Even to hear the word “Yoga” is a blessing. Even a partial understanding of its depth and scope is a dip in the wading pool of the ocean of consciousness. Everything must start somewhere, and perhaps for millions, this is the start of a new beginning, on awakening. Our honourable Prime Minster Shri Narendra Modi has said, “ Yoga can be a vital factor in changing the lifestyle and creating consciousness with climate change”. It is only Shri Modiji, who is a fervent practitioner of Yoga himself as well as a devout Hindu, could include the idea of “changing life style and creating consciousness” which are the core values of Yoga. He seems to be “walking his talk” and “taking his walk” … all marks of a true Yogic spirit. The flag of Yoga and all it symbolizes now flies over the community of nations! May those of us who adore this ancient wisdom keep it flying high! I wish the CYTER team all the very best in their efforts to propagate this ancient art and science of India within a modern framework for the benefit of society worldwide.

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Sri Om Prakash Tiwari Secretary, Kaivalyadhama, Lonavla, Maharashtra. www.kdham.com President, Indian Yoga Association and Chairman Council for Yoga Accreditation International.

MESSAGE OF BLESSINGS Yoga is the transformation of the individual consciousness into universal consciousness; and when such an irreversible transformation occurs, one experiences a complete freedom from the shackles of ignorance, avidya, and rejoices in the Life Divine. The spirit of oneness, which is the basic fabric of Yoga, has its impact not only on the inner world, but also on the world out here. The world of being and becoming with its inhabitants, though appears to be diverse in nature, is strung together in a cosmic rhythm, which is termed ṛitamby the ancient Vedic seers. To be in harmony with the cosmic rhythm is the solution to all sorts of problems like unrest, violence, and intolerance which are driven by the ego-centric selfishness of human being. The promotion of Yoga is the panacea to all sorts of disintegration between persons, societies, nations, and worlds through the cultivation of fundamental unity. Even the divergent human thoughts become one pointed through the practice of yogic concentration resulting in orderliness in words, attitude, and action. This 'Order out of Chaos' is the cherished goal of humankind towards a happy and peaceful existence. I am happy to learn that the International Day of Yoga 2017 will be observed at Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry, with pomp and grandeur, during 19-23 June 2017 along with Public Awareness programs, Common Yoga Protocol demonstrations, Yogasana competitions, and a National Seminar on "Role of Yoga in Chronic Diseases” The organizers of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth have resolved to ignite a sacred Yoga-Yajna, for the greater welfare of humanity, the holy flames of which will arrest all the evil forces retarding the positive growth of the world. I, on behalf of Kaivalyadhama, offer my hearty wishes as my oblation to this sacred Yajna impressing a substantial momentum to the world-wide expansion of Yoga culture. As Swami Kuvalyananda said “Yoga has a complete message humanity, it has a message of human body and also human mind. I am sure it will create great awareness amongst the masses about the need of Yoga for Health, Happiness and Harmony. May this event be a grand success.

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Dr H R NAGENDRA, PhD Chancellor S-VYASA & President –VYASA Chairman, IDY Experts Committee, Task force of AYUSH, and SAC of CCRYN Ministry of AYUSH, Govt of India. Chairman, Expert Committee on Yoga for Teacher Educators, NCTE, Yoga for schools, NCERT Chairperson, "Committee on Yoga Education in Universities" and Member, Committee for Development of Vision and Road Map for the development of Sanskrit, Ministry of HRD, GOI Chancellor, S-VYASA Yoga University, Bengaluru.

MESSAGE OF BLESSINGS I am happy to note that Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondichery is involved in promoting education in areas related to health from under graduate level to Post Graduate level, under the umbrella of its various institutes established by Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth. The institute, apart from promoting formal traditional professional education, is also promoting the traditional ancient Indian knowledge of Yoga Education and Research under “Centre for Yoga Therapy, Education and Research (CYTER)”. Centre for Yoga Therapy, Education and Research (CYTER) is engaged in spreading awareness about traditional Yoga and its benefit for the welfare of the society, in addition to carrying out research in yoga with a view to establish the scientific validations of Yoga for health and mind and thus establishing the strong scientific foundation for Yoga, which is the need of the hour. As part of celebrating IDY, CYTER has envisaged a five day long program including National Seminar-cum-Workshop on “Role of Yoga in prevention, management and rehabilitation of chronic disease” on the concluding day. Trust that, the National Seminar cum workshop will add new dimension to Yoga in preventing, managing and rehabilitation of chronic diseases and thus give more emphasis to adopt traditional ancient system of medicine specially Yoga. I convey my best wishes to Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth and CYTER for their efforts in promoting Yoga and I wish the Institute all the success in its endeavor.

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Dr. W. SELVAMURTHY, Ph.D., D.Sc. FAMS, FABMS, FIMSA, FIANS, FIAY President Amity Science, Technology & Innovation Foundation (ASTIF), Director General, Amity Directorate of Science & Innovation Chancellor, Amity University Chhattisgarh and Chair Professor for Life Sciences {Former Distinguished Scientist and Chief Controller R&D(LS), DRDO} Tab: 91(0)120 4392045 / 91- 9871372441 Email: [email protected]

MESSAGE OF BLESSINGS I am happy to note that Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry will be celebrating the International Day of Yoga 2017 from 19-23 June, 2017. As we are all aware Modern day life style has brought in many challenges to health and has become a major cause for many ailments across the globe. Stress, improper dietary habits and sedentary living have led to decline in health, performance and leading to cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders and even cancer. The beneficial effects of Yoga for prevention of disease, promote positive health and also cure specific diseases related to stress has been proven scientifically. Yogic practices brings stability of autonomic equilibrium strengthening para-sympathetic system thereby minimizing the wear and tear in different physiological systems thus slowing down ageing process. Practice of Yoga leads to improvement in physical and cognitive performance thermoregulatory efficiency, body flexibility and stress tolerance. It also strengthens our immunity thereby preventing diseases. Yoga was also found to be beneficial as an adjunct to conventional medical management of hypertension, coronary artery disease and diabetes. On this IDY researchers need to pledge that Yoga will be placed on a scientific pedestal through controlled research studies wherever there is a gap in understanding. It needs to be propagated across different cross sections of our society including children where yoga lays the foundation for healthy life style. I hope that sessions during the event will provide a platform for learning from each other’s experiences and translating them into valuable products to benefit mankind. I convey my best wishes for the success of this grand event.

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Prof Ramesh Bijlani, M.D. E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 011-2656-7863 Website: www.sriaurobindoashram.net

Sri Aurobindo Ashram – Delhi Branch Sri Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi 110 016

MESSAGE OF BLESSINGS The roots of chronic disease lie in an unhealthy lifestyle, of which mental stress is a major accompaniment. This realization has made modern medicine incorporate ancient disciplines such as yoga, which combine a healthy lifestyle with potent infallible prescriptions for lasting mental peace, into the prevention and management of chronic disease. In this respect, CYTER, located in a medical environment, has great potential for bringing the benefits of these advances to its patients. Under the leadership of Dr. Ananda Balayogi, who is both a yogi and a medical doctor, CYTER has achieved phenomenal success within a short period. Dr. Balayogi has been walking with great distinction for a long time now the difficult path of staying true to tradition on one hand, and adapting it to the modern world on the other. The annual conferences that he has been holding every year since the first International Yoga Day have been disseminating the message of yoga to large numbers in the medical fraternity. For the success of this year’s celebrations, I am pleased, and honoured, to send him the love and blessings of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother.

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MESSAGE FROM DESK OF THE ORGANIZING CHAIRMAN It gives me profound contentment to organize the National Seminar-cum-Workshop on “Role of Yoga in Prevention, Management and Rehabilitation of Chronic Diseases” in collaboration with CYTER as a part of International Day of Yoga celebrations from 19 - 23 June 2017. Chronic illness due to lifestyle changes and urbanization is the major threat for health in this century. Apart from curative perspectives, prevention and rehabilitation should be also given due importance forwell being. Yoga, a mode of mind body medicine is the foremost practiced CAM (Complementary &Alternate Medicine) for holistic health. We are fortunate to have pioneers in this field as resource persons. By knowledge and experience sharing, I am confident that this seminar will be an academic feast for all the delegates. I express my heart-felt gratitude to our hon’ble Chairman and Chancellor, Shri MK Rajagoplan for his encouragement and support for organizing this programme. Guidance and support of our respected Vice-Chancellor, Prof. KR Sethuraman made planning of the programme a smooth affair. Dean, Research and AHS, Professor N Ananthakrishnan has been a source of inspiration and motivation. I am grateful for the support of our Dean of Medicine Prof. M Ravishankar, and Medical Superintendent, Dr Nirmal Coumare for their support. Logistic support by the management of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth University is gratefully acknowledged. I thank my colleagues from the Department of Physiology and CYTER for their unconditional support. As the Organizing Chairman I whole heartedly welcome one and all. Prof. K. Jaiganesh Prof. and Head, Department of Physiology, MGMC&RI

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FROM THE DESK OF THE ORGANIZING SECRETARY Consequent to the decision of the United Nations on 11 December, 2014 and with the support of 177 nations, International Day of Yoga was first celebrated on 21 June, 2015. It is a great pride for every Indian that this was due to efforts of our honorable Prime Minster Shri Narendra Modiji. We at Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth University have celebrated the event both in 2015 and 2016. As per guidelines issued by UGC and Ministry of AYUSH, IDY 2017 will be celebrated at Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed University accredited with 'A' Grade by NAAC), Pondicherry in a grand manner from 19-23 June 2017. On Monday, 19 June we will have a Yoga awareness programme for Medical, Dental and Nursing students of constituent colleges of SBV. Our students have received extensive training at CYTER in the Common Yoga Protocol developed by Ministry of AYUSH and they will demonstrate their Yoga skills on the occasion. On Tuesday, 20 June there will be a Mass awareness Yoga programme at Seliamedu HSS and RHTC that is organized in collaboration with the Department of Community Medicine. School students and general public will take part in this event that will give them the message of Yoga as preventive medicine. On Wednesday, 21 June the CYTER team with faculty, staff and students of SBV will join the IDY celebrations with mass demonstration on beach and different events organized by the Departments of Tourism, Health and Education of Govt. of Puducherry. A Regional Yogasana competition will be held at SBV on 22 June for students of health Professional Educational institutions in Pondicherry region in association with Pondicherry Yogasana Association. This will be the first ever such event in the history of Yoga Sport of Puducherry. The crest jewel of the weeklong celebrations will be the National Seminar-cumWorkshop on “Role of Yoga in prevention, management and rehabilitation of chronic diseases” on 23 June at MGMCRI. We are especially pleased to welcome Dr KK Aggarwal, the National President of IMA who kindly accepted to be Chief Guest and deliver the Keynote address. We will also be blessed by Ammaji Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani of ICYER (Ananda Ashram), Pondicherry and Smt Menaka Desikachar of Krishnamacharya Healing and Yoga Foundation, Chennai who are world renowned Yoga Shaktis. We heartily welcome all our resource persons who will be enlightening us with their lectures, lecturedemonstrations, workshops and panel discussion. We welcome all of you to enjoy all the events and join us in paying tribute to the rich and varied cultural heritage of our country from which the art and science of Yoga has sprung for the benefit of humanity. Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani Director CYTER, SBV

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A BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO OUR ESTEEMED SEMINAR FACULTY AMMAJI, YOGACHARINI MEENAKSHI DEVI BHAVANANI Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani popularly known worldwide as Ammaji, is Director and Resident Acharya of the world famous International Centre for Yoga Education and Research (ICYER at Ananda Ashram) and Yoganjali Natyalayam at Pondicherry. She is the Dharmapatni and senior most disciple of the internationally acclaimed Yoga master, Yogamaharishi Dr. Swami GitanandaGiri Guru Maharaj and has devoted her life to his teachings and to institutions founded by him. She is a prolific author with 12 books, including two books of poetry to her credit. She is Editor of Satya Press and her defining book on “The History of Yoga from Ancient to Modern Times” released in 2011 is a path breaking effort hailed as the “Defining publication on the history of Yoga to date.”She has trained many thousands of students in Yoga and Bharatanatyam in the past five decades and is considered a pioneer in bringing the Performing Fine Arts and Yoga to the common people in Pondicherry. She has been recipient of many National and State Awards such as "Yogamani" in 1986 from the President of India Shri Zail Singh Ji and “Bhaskar Award” by Bharat Nirman as one of 50 eminent Indians honoured during the 50th year of Indian Independence for their contribution to Indian culture and spirituality. In 1999 she was given the “PuduvaiKalaimamani” Award for her work in BharataNatyam by the Pondicherry Government. She has served on the Pondicherry University Academic Council, the Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy as well as the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga under Ministry of Health, Government of India.Ammaji is considered one of the major International leaders of the modern Yoga movement. Though born in the USA in 1943, she came to India in 1967 and has lived here ever since. She was awarded Indian Citizenship on November 30th, 1992, in her own words “the proudest day of my life.” Dr KK AGGARWAL, MBBS, MD (Medicine) Recipient of Padma Shri (2010), National President of the Indian Medical Association (2016-17), Dr. BC Roy National Award (2005), National Science Communication Award and Vishwa Hindi Samman (2015) awards, Dr Krishan Kumar Aggarwal belongs to the class of 1975. A Consultant Cardiologist, President of Heart Care Foundation of India, and Honorary Secretary General of Medical Council of India, Dr Aggarwal is gifted with a multifaceted and dynamic personality. His pursuit of excellence continues in the roles of physicianscientist, academic teacher, writer, editor, administrator and public health activist. 22


Gold Medalist and Nagpur University topper throughout a medical career, Krishanji obtained MD (Medicine) from MGIMS in 1983. During his MD at Sevagram, he was deputed for a six- weeks training at AIIMS Immunology department. Dr. AN Malviya, the head of the Immunology Department wrote in his testimonial, "I found Dr. Krishan Kumar to be an extremely bright, enthusiastic and hardworking physician, who has a very keen sense of clinical research. I also found him to be compassionate towards his patients. I feel that with his clear thinking, enthusiasm for hard and honest work and perseverance, he should become one of the top physicians in India. “These words were indeed prophetic, for in the three decades since, Krishan has achieved much more than his master expected him to perform. After obtaining MD, he joined Moolchand Medcity, New Delhi where he currently serves as a senior consultant, Physician and Cardiologist and Dean, Board of Medical Education. The first to use clot busters in patients with acute myocardial infarction (1984), he introduced color Doppler echocardiography in North India in 1987. Group Editor-in-chief of IJCP Group of Publications and emedinews- national daily medical newspaper, he is well known for the several roles he plays: a compulsive writer, an eloquent columnist and a much sought-after TV anchor. He champions the cause of medical professionals, fights for human rights, defends medical ethics, and is keenly interested in revamping medical education in India. He uses alternative medicine - Yoga & Ayurveda - to treat patients with diabetes and cardiac problems and believes that if we have to stop the Juggernaut of lifestyle disorders, we need to focus on primary prevention. He is a Limca Book of World Record Holder for the maximum people trained in the life-saving technique of Hands-only CPR. Dr Aggarwal was the 4th postgraduate student to obtain MD (Medicine) from MGIMS. Greatly influenced by Dr. Khatri, the legendary teacher who was serving as professor of Medicine at MGIMS- Krishanji developed a fascination for clinical medicine and would work almost 24/7 in the medicine wards of the old Kasturba Hospital, Sevagram, trying to unwrap mystery from complex medical maladies. Recalls Krishanji of his MGIMS days, “MGIMS taught me how doctors diagnosed illness using their own senses, by poking, prodding, looking, listening. From these observations, a skilled doctor can make amazingly accurate inferences about what ails the patient. MGIMS taught me how to use meaningfully such investigations as echocardiography, stress tests and cardiac catheterization for patients with cardiac disorders. I realized that the full ritual of history and physical examination was necessary to establish that connection between the tradition and technology. Those skills have stood me in good stead, all my life, and I am ever indebted to MGIMS and teachers for making me what I am.” Dr Aggarwal’s persona, his incredible charisma and life story makes an interesting reading- starting from his serene childhood in Delhi and continuing through his admission to MGIMS, his residency days in the hospital wards, his falling in love with research during medical school, and his ascent to the summit of cardiology to become the legend that he is, the undisputed “king” of this discipline. To know more: http://kkaggarwal.com 23


Professor Dr K R SETHURAMAN, MBBS, MD, PGDHE Professor K.R. Sethuraman is currently Vice Chancellor of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry. He is a well-known clinician and popular medical educationist who served with distinction as Dean and Senior Professor of Faculty of Medicine and Deputy VC – Academic and International Affairs in the AIMST University, Malaysia from 2006 to 2013. He retired as Director-Professor (Internal) Medicine at JIPMER where he worked in various capacities from 1981 to 2006. During this period he was the prime force behind the National Teacher Training Centre (NTTC) that he headed as a Department of Medical Education & NTTC during 1996-2006. He was also lecturer in Cardiology at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum from 1978 to 1981. He has been consultant in Taskforce of JPT (MOHE) Panel on Medical Education in Malaysia, Training consultant for Training of Trainers: World Bank aided Health Systems Project: Andhra Pradesh (APVVP), Karnataka State (KHSDP) and Orissa State and Temporary advisor to WHO – HRH meet at Cape town, South Africa (2004), Psycho-social Issues meet at Bangkok (2005) and 1st South Asian Conference on PG medical education, Colombo (2005). He has authored more than 30 Pubmed referenced papers, 40 invited papers, and 60 presentations in conferences/workshops in India, South Africa, Srilanka & Thailand. He has authored nine books including “Beyond Rational Therapy”, “Practical Echography”,” Medical Education: Principles & Practice”, “Implementing Innovations in Clinical Skill Training” and the well known “Trick or Treat - a survival guide to healthcare”, ”Doctor-Patient Communication and “Post Mortem”- a Book serialized as 65 Tamil articles in “Junior Vikatan”. His video / computer-based educational units are very popular amongst clinicians and students as they include “Push, Promote or Educate.” - a WHO aided video, “Doctor-Patient Dyads.” - a video on common communication problems, “Patient Personality Types.” - a video on how to handle different patients, “Oral Examination” - part 4 of a video on National Board Examination, “Album of Clinical Cases.” - a collection of interesting & unique cases and five Computer based educational programmes.

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Yogacharini Smt. MENAKA DESIKACHAR, KHYF Smt. Menaka Desikachar is the senior most teacher in the tradition of T. Krishnamacharya and TKV Desikachar and was the wife of world famous Yoga master and teacher TKV Desikachar until his passing in 2016. She has studied and taught Yoga, Yoga Therapy and Vedic Chanting under the guidance of her husband for over four decades. She was a founding member of the Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram in Chennai, India in 1976 and has been instrumental in building Vedavani, the department to Vedic Chanting at the Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram, in which she served and taught as the technical director for over a decade. Smt Menaka is now the senior teacher, educator and therapist at the Krishnamacharya Healing and Yoga Foundation (www.khyf.net) in Chennai where she continues to teach Yoga, Vedic Chanting and Yoga Therapy to heal the seekers and students from around the world. She is one of the very few people that the legendary Yoga master Tirumalai Krishnamacharya himself graduated with a special Yoga diploma and one of the few women that he has accepted to teach some chanting after she had learnt initially from her husband. Together with her husband, her son Kausthub and daughter Mekhala, she has conducted numerous seminars and workshops around the world about Yoga, Vedic Chanting and Yoga Therapy and has therefore raised awareness on Yoga and it’s tools in East and West. Smt Menaka is especially renowned as an authority in the field of Vedic Chanting. The number of chants that she knows by heart and the dedication to her practice has made her a true Mantrajna, a knower of Vedic mantras. This is a truly remarkable achievement and made her a strong inspiration for many women worldwide, as for centuries many of the Vedic mantras could only be learnt by male Brahmins. She has a vast knowledge of the chants and is aware of their benefits from her own experience. She testifies that the practice of mantras has changed her own character over the years. Nowadays she is a force to be reckoned with and would never miss one mistake in the chanting of her students! She is fully dedicated in making sure that the chants are still recited in the exact same manner that the Rishis received them centuries ago so that the vibrations of the chants can reveal their infinite potency. Smt Menaka Desikachar is the head of the KHYF Vedic Chant Teacher Training in which students learn how to recite the Vedas correctly and how they then can pass them on to their students. In that manner, she has brought the knowledge of the Vedas to men and women of all age groups and nationalities worldwide. She follows the footsteps of T. Krishnamacharya who had the opinion that every sincere student should be able to learn the incredible vast and rich knowledge of the Vedic scriptures and thus be able to benefit from it.

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Smt Menaka is also an exceptional Yoga therapist with a keen eye and a deep understanding of the spine, physical misalignments and constitutional imbalances and how the tools of Yoga can be applied to alleviate them. Thus, she has helped many children with scoliosis realign their spines with the help of Yoga Therapy. Female students also often seek her expertise when it comes to all kinds of women’s issues and children's diseases. Smt Menaka has taught extensively both within and outside the country, so that women worldwide are informed how Yoga can help them conceive easier, have a healthy and connected pregnancy, how to heal from any postnatal difficulties and how to address any problems during menopause. Over the years she has also offered her service work to the under privileged as well as to special needs children, homeless children and prisoners. Despite her authority in the field of teaching and chanting and the popularity of her family, Smt Menaka Desikachar has always remained extremely grounded, accessible and friendly. She appreciates simplicity in her everyday life. In her free time, she loves gardening and grows her own vegetables and colorful flowers in the garden around her house. She also holds a degree in botany. For her working in the garden serves not just as a recreative tool, but also as a way of contemplation and insight. Yogacharya ARAVINDA K, BE, MS, MTech, PhD Sri. Aravinda K, has completed B.E. in Electronics, M.S. in Computer Applications, M.Tech. in VLSI design & Embedded systems and is currently pursuing PhD (Amrita University). Apart from this, he has also completed Basic & Advanced courses in Pranic healing, course in Ashtantagayoga and Master course in Kundalini yoga. He has served at Teltronics Ltd and Pulsetone Industries at Bangalore. He worked as a lecturer at Sapthagiri College of Engineering, and is currently working as Senior Assistant Professor in the department of Electronics & Communication at New Horizon College of Engineering, Bengaluru. He has been teaching the practices and theory of yoga since 2000, following the Rishiculture of Dr. Swami Gitananda Giri of Pondicherry at his Shreyas Centre for Yoga in Bangalore, following the Gurukula system of ancient India. He was awarded with Faculty excellence at New Horizon College of Engineering, Bengaluru. He has three Technical Publications to his credit. He has published many spiritual articles and books in English and Kannada, has done 6 video DVDs and an audio DVD in Kannada

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Prof. MADANMOHAN, MBBS, MD, MSc, DSc (Yoga), FIAY Dr. Madanmohan is currently Honorary Emeritus Professor of Physiology and Yoga Therapy at the Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute and CYTER. He served as Director CYTER till his retirement in March 2017. He has teaching & research experience of more than 45 years and his fields of research are yoga, yoga therapy, cardiovascular & respiratory physiology. He has delivered more than 50 invited talks in conferences, academic forums and organizations and has numerous awards including Gold Medal & Scroll of Honor, Annual Internal Oration (2009-10), JIPMER Scientific Society; Prof. A Namasivayam Endowment Lecture (2013), Deptt of Physiology, University of Madras; Felicitated for outstanding contribution towards physiology and yoga, APPI, Belgaum branch; Best Personalities of India Award and Gold Medal, Friendship Forum of India; Honorary appointment to the Research Board of Advisors (1999) of the American Biographical Institute. He was Founder-Programme Director of ACYTER, JIPMER. He has 110 research papers (including original research work) in national and international journals, more than 80 abstracts and 30 magazine articles. He has guided 36 PGs (MD, MS, MSc, and PhD) students in their research work and 15 medical students in their ICMR Research Studentship. He has worked in 26 research projects as chief investigator / co-investigator. He has personally given yoga training to medical students, school children, police personnel and general public as well as yoga therapy to hospital patients. He has organized many workshops and CMEs in Yoga and edited 8 proceedings of workshops / CMEs / symposia and 3 reports of research projects in yoga. He has served as expert in selection committees of UPSC, JIPMER, University of Madras; NEIGRIHMS, Shillong; Pondicherry Government Medical College; and AIIMS. He has also been part time MCI inspector (for UG & PG) for inspection of medical colleges and Member, Inspection Committee for Medical Colleges, Pondicherry University. He was honoured by Yoga JivanaSatsangha (International) with the Karma Yoga Shironmani in 2003 in recognition of his illustrious service for the integration of yoga and modern medicine. Prof B AMIRTHA GANESH, MBBS, MD, DNB, FSCAI Profe.ssor & HOD of Cardiology at MGMCRI, Dr Amirtha Ganesh has completed his M.B.B.S from PSGIMS & R at Coimbatore. He did M.D (Gen.med.) from Thanjavur Medical College following which he completed D.N.B (Cardiology) from Southern Railway Headquarters Hospital, Chennai. He has also completed FSCAI, the fellowship from USA. Dr Amirtha Ganesh is good Carnatic Vocalist too. A calm and an ever cheerful person, Dr Amirtha Ganesh is an incredible humane being striving hard to help his patients

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attain a state of exuberant health and wellbeing. His areas of Special interest are in Prevention & Rehabilitation in Cardiology apart from clinical and interventional cardiology. Prof. K A NARAYAN, MBBS, DPH, MD Dr. K A Narayan, Professor of Community Medicine , Course Director, Health Professions Education Programmes, Academic Training and Development Consultant at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute with over 20 years’ experience in Health Professionals training, Curriculum planning, implementation and evaluation, Programme evaluation and Disaster Management training. He is the Resource Faculty SBV-AHEAD and Programme Director – PGDHPE and MHPE. He was the Vice Principal & Head of Community Medicine from 2013 to 2014 He was the Director of Medical Education, Deputy Dean (Academic) and Professor of Community Medicine for the AIMST University, Malaysia between 2006 to 2013. He served as the Professor of Community Medicine, Head of Community Medicine, Faculty of National Teacher Training Centre, Senior Resident to Associate Professor at JIPMER, Pondicherry between 1994 and 2006. He is the Programme Director for Certificate, Post Graduate Diploma in Health Professionals Education (PGDHPE) and MPhil in Health Professions Education programme of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth – an ‘A’ Grade deemed to be University and also for the Certificate Programme for Research Methods, Data analysis and Statistics – a hands on training programme. He is a PhD guide in Community Medicine and Health Informatics He has more than 50 peer reviewed articles in journals with aH- Index of 11 to his credit. He has authored 7 books and book chapters, written technical Papers and developed several PBL modules. He is extremely competent in using Ms Office, SPSS, EpiInfo, GIS software, Remark Office OMR and has developed and implemented system for student monitoring & progress Prof. PAJANIVEL RANGANADIN, MBBS, MD, FRCP (Ln) Dr. Pajanivel Professor of Pulmonary Medicine at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth has completed M.B.B.S from JIPMER in 1993, M.D in Pulmonary Medicine from JIPMER in 2000 as well as FRCP from Glasgow. He has a rich experience of fourteen years in teaching and is an exemplary teacher. He is a guide for Post graduate students of Pulmonary Medicine & M.PT. He is the Co-ordinator of RNTCP –MGMCRI and is a part of its Core committee, the Vice-chairperson of RNTCP ZONE-II and a member of the Task Force Committee, esteemed Chairperson of Puducherry State RNTCP OR Committee and a Member of State DOTS PLUS Committee. He is the Organizing Secretary for the annual

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“Spirometry Technician Training Workshop” at Pondicherry conducted under the auspices of Indian Chest Society, since 2014. He is also the Institute Coordinator for National Assessment & Accreditation Council (NAAC) Steering Committee. He is the Life Member of Indian Chest Society and NCCP; Member of European Respiratory Society, American Thoracic society & ACCP and His Areas of Special Interest consists of Obstructive Airway diseases and Bronchoscopy and Interventional Pulmonology. He has Co-authored a book “Handbook of Clinical Pulmonary Medicine” published in 2017 by Jaypee Publications. He has 8 International and 5 National Research Publications to his credit along with three ongoing interdisciplinary projects. He received the Best Paper Award for the work “Role of Sputum Cytology in the Diagnosis of Lung Malignancies” at NAPCON in1997. He has presented papers both in the national and international arenas, and has delivered orations and talks in various forums. He is the proud recipient of ‘Outstanding Faculty’ Commendation award in 2008 at MGMCRI ; the ‘Lieutenant Governor Award for the “Selfless contribution to Health care activities” in 2012 conferred by All India Jain Society and GOTHI Charitable Trust, and “Rajiv Gandhi Gold Medal Award” conferred by GEPRA-INDIA in 2014. Prof. RENUKA K, B.Sc(N),M.Sc(N), PhD An able administrator with 15 years of teaching and 8 years of research experience, Dr Renuka is currently Dean, Faculty of Nursing Science, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry. She completed her B.Sc(N) and M.Sc(N) in nursing from College of Nursing, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, under The Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, Chennai and her PhD in Nursing from Vinayaka Missions University, Salem. She has won ‘Gold Medal’ in B. Sc(N) securing First in Medical surgical Nursing received from the Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical University, Chennai in 1999. Also Merit certificate received from The Tamil Nadu State Nurses & Midwives Council, Chennai for securing state second rank in B.Sc., Nursing in 1999. She was also awarded “Commendation Certificate” for Best Service rendered in the Institution from the Dean, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College, during Independence Day Celebration in 2008. She has 15 papers published in high impact indexed National & International journals, is International peer reviewer in OMICS Bio-Medical Journals, Majmaah University, Saudi Arabia, Editor in Chief for Pondicherry Journal of Nursing and Contributing Editor for Tamil Nadu Nurses & Midwives Council – Medical Surgical Nursing Journal. She is also Head of Department-Medical Surgical Nursing, UG & PG Examiner, Research guide for PG students, Member Secretary – Institutional Human Ethical Committee, Co-guide in MAHER University, Chennai. She is External Expert as Evaluator & subject expert for Textila University, USA.

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Yogacharya Dr ANANDA BALAYOGI BHAVANANI, MBBS, MD (AM), FIAY, C-IAYT

Yogacharya Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani is Chairman of the International Centre for Yoga Education and Research at Ananda Ashram, Pondicherry, India. He is also chairman of Yoganjali Natyalayam, the premier institute of Yoga, Carnatic Music and Bharatanatyam in Pondicherry. He is son and successor of the internationally acclaimed Yoga team of Yogamaharishi Dr. Swami Gitananda Giri Guru Maharaj and Ammaji, Yogacharini Kalaimamani Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani. He is a Gold Medallist in Medical Studies (MBBS) with postgraduate diplomas in both Family Health (PGDFH) as well as Yoga (PGDY) and the Advanced Diploma in Yoga under his illustrious parents in 1991-93. A Fellow of the Indian Academy of Yoga, he has authored 19 DVDs and 23 books on Yoga as well as published more than two hundred papers, compilations and abstracts on Yoga and Yoga research in National and International Journals. He is a Classical Indian Vocalist, Percussionist, Music Composer and Choreographer of Indian Classical Dance in addition to his duties as Director of the Centre for Yoga Therapy Education and Research (CYTER), MGMCRI, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth University, Pondicherry. In recent years he has travelled abroad 15 times and conducted invited talks, public events, workshops and retreats and been major presenter at Yoga conferences in the UK, USA, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. He is Honorary International Advisor to the International Association of Yoga Therapists, Australian Association of Yoga Therapists and Gitananda Yoga Associations worldwide. He is currently member of Scientific Advisory Committee of the Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy (CCRYN), Ministry of AYUSH, Govt of India as well as the Expert Committee of AYUSH for Celebration of International Yoga Day. He is also member of the Executive Council of the Indian Yoga Association and Board of Directors of the Council for Yoga Accreditation International. Yogachemmal Dr. Meena Ramanathan PhD, C-IAYT Dr. Meena is Deputy Director of CYTER, the Centre for Yoga Therapy Education and Research, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth University. She has completed numerous undergraduate and post graduate degrees and diplomas in Yoga, Science and English has completed her PhD in Yoga through Tamil Nadu Physical Education and Sports University. She is a recognized IAYT Certified Yoga Therapist by the International Association of Yoga Therapists, USA in February 2017. She has been recognized as PhD Guide (Yoga Therapy and Inter Disciplinary Research) by Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry in March 2016. She has been appointed as Examiner for Quality Council of India (QCI) through Indian Yoga Association, recognised by AYUSH, Central Ministry of Health, New Delhi in Sep 2016. A student of the Rishiculture Ashtanga Yoga 30


Paramparya, Meena has been an integral part of the Tradition for over a decade. She has admirably trained thousands of students under the auspices of Pondicherry University as Coordinator of the Yoga courses in the Community College as well as faculty of Annamalai University, Manonmaniyam University, MGR University and Yoganjali Natyalayam. She is Coordinator; Outreach Programmes of Yoganjali Natyalayam and was Guest Faculty at ACYTER, JIPMER. She has been giving practical Yoga training to Staff, Students of Pondicherry University for the past 8 years. She has authored and co-authored a dozen books and more than a dozen papers on Yoga in English and Tamil in various journals. She is currently carrying on many Research/Pilot Studies at CYTER, MGMCRI, and has also published more than 25 scientific papers and abstracts in leading Scientific Journals. Her books on Thirukkural and Yoga, Applied Yoga, Gheranda Samhita and Primer of Yoga Theory are best sellers. She has received many awards such as Yoga Chemmal, Yoga Rathna, Yoga Seva Maamani, Bangalore Sundaram Award, Yoga Jyothi, Chellammal Award and Annai Sivakami Award, Sri Aurobindo Award (Mahan ArvindarVirudu), “Mozhi Peyarppu Tharagai” to name a few. She was honoured with the best Yoga Teacher Award on the International Day of Yoga by Nehru Yuva Kendra and Ministry of Tourism, Puducherry. She has been nominated as “Subject Expert” in the Selection Committee of the Govt of Puducherry, Directorate of Indian Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy; under National Health Mission. She recently received the Achiever’s Award for “Best Yoga Therapist 2016”. She has been doing yeomen service for the past 15 years for the cause of senior citizens and special children of Pondicherry. Yogachemmal Shri G Dayanidy, MCA., M.Sc., Shri G Dayanidy is Lecturer of CYTER, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth University. He completed M.Sc in Yoga through TN Physical Education and Sports University and completed PG degrees and diplomas in Yoga and Science. He is currently doing PG Diploma in Yoga Therapy. He has been appointed as Examiner for Quality Council of India (QCI) through Indian Yoga Association, recognised by AYUSH, Central Ministry of Health, New Delhi in Sep 2016. He cleared CBSC National Eligibility Test exam in Yoga for assistant professor grade conducted by UGC in Jan 2017. A student of Rishiculture Ashtanga Yoga Paramparya, he has been an integral part of the Tradition for over two decades. He has trained hundreds of students under auspices of Pondicherry University as Yoga Instructor cum Lecturer of Yoga courses in Community College and Yoganjali Natyalayam. He served as Yoga Instructor at Advanced Center for Yoga Therapy, Education and Research (ACYTER), JIPMER, Pondicherry from June 2009 – March 2016. He is Organising member for Swami Gitananda Best Youth and Child Award competition and Pondicherry State Level Yogasana Competition conducted yearly by Pondicherry Yogasana Association for past 11 years. He is currently carrying on Research/Pilot Studies at CYTER, and published scientific papers and abstracts in leading Journals. He received many awards such as Yoga Chemmal, Yoga Sudar, Champion of Champions, Swami Gitananda Best Youth, Dynamic Yoga Award, Best Yoga Asana Demonstration Award and Best Karma Yogi Award. He has also won many prizes in the Yogasana competions.

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YOGA: AN ANCIENT LIFE STYLE SUITABLE FOR MODERN MAN Yogacharini Smt Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani 1 The word Yoga has firmly entrenched itself in the global vocabulary. From Pretoria to Moscow, from Beijing to Rio de Janerio, mention the word “Yoga” and people’s eyes light up with recognition and a dim awareness that Yoga is indeed something of great value. But what is the value of Yoga? And what values have become associated with this ancient Sanskrit word? The majority believe Yoga is valuable because it cures or prevents disease, making it a superb keep-fit exercise. Others will only value its effectiveness in weight reduction. Some, a few, will concede that Yoga bestows peace of mind and a feeling of wellbeing, even of increased energy levels. Of course no one will deny that Yoga does indeed produce all these good things. But! This is not and never has been the goal of Yoga. All these results are merely side benefits. The real purpose of Yoga was, is and shall always be Moksha, liberation, the achievement of the Highest Goal of Human Life, oneness with the Universal Self. Yoga is a methodology developed over millennia of experimentation by the great Rishis of India aimed at achieving the ultimate perfection of the human spirit. Yoga transforms the lower animal nature to a human one, and the human nature to a God-like Being, radiating Sat (Reality) Chit (Consciousness) and Anandam (Bliss). Yoga is not a magic pill. It is not a technique, a trick, a convenient button which can be pressed to accomplish a mundane goal. Yoga is a Way of Life, Yoga is the lifestyle of the Rishis of India who “Saw Reality” and who were compassionate enough to return to lower levels of consciousness to show a path to these less developed themselves, enabling them to achieve the same pinnacle of unfoldment of spirit. Yoga is a wholistic way of life that encompasses all aspects of human existence: physical, mental, moral, ethical, emotional, material and spiritual. Yoga shows us how the human incarnation may be lived according to Dharma, the Cosmic Law. Yoga is a lifestyle evolved in hermitages of Rishis. Yet, it is pertinent even today. It is a lifestyle rooted in restraint of animal impulses (Yama) and cultivation of humane virtues (Niyama). It is discipline of body (Asana) and control of breath / Prana (Pranayama). Yoga advocates conscious use (not misuse) of sensory organs both Jnanendriyas as well as Karmendriyas (Pratyahara). It teaches correct use of mind in a non-personal, objective, positive, directed manner (Dharana). All these aspects of controlled living are woven into a natural, non-acquisitive, sensitive, simple, regulated life style which is guided by the high ideas of Dharma and Moksha. Yoga, that most popular modern word, is a sound like an atomic bomb, which when penetrated deeply releases energy powerful enough to lift all its practitioners into higher realms of consciousness, propelling the Jiva far, far beyond the puny personality into the grand vision and life style of a true Universality.

Director and Ashram Acharya, International Centre for Yoga Education and Research, Ananda Ashram, Pondicherry. www.icyer.com

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SPIRITUAL FACTOR IN HEALING Professor KR Sethuraman MD, PGDHE 2 Healing in a holistic sense has faded from medical attention and is rarely discussed in modern (“Western”) medicine especially in therapeutics. However, other disciplines like medical anthropology, sociology, alternate systems of medicine, and medical philosophy have continued an active contemplation of holistic healing. To heal is to achieve or acquire wholeness as a person. The wholeness of personhood involves physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual aspects of human experience (Egnew, 2005). It is perhaps difficult to quantify the relative importance of the various factors that contribute to healing. It may vary depending on the kind of illness that is being studied. Of the various factors that contribute to healing of illnesses in a community, only 20% could be ascribed to rational treatment using medicines or surgery. The remaining 80% is divided among three faith-based factors (White, 1988). i)

Placebo effect (faith in drugs or procedural interventions)

ii) Hawthorne effect (faith in a health care system, a facility or a professional) iii) Factor-X or “spiritual factor” (faith in oneself or in the supernatural) The relative importance of these faith-based factors in holistic healing may be debatable. However, there is no denying that these factors play an important part in the recovery from illnesses. In 1984, the 37th World Health Assembly adopted a resolution which made the spiritual dimension an integral part of the WHO Member States’ strategies for health. The definition of health has been revised as follows: “Health is a dynamic state of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (Khayat, 1998). The definition of spirituality adopted by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC, 1999) is broad and secular: “Spirituality is expressed in an individual’s search for the ultimate meaning through participation in religion and/or belief in God, family, naturalism, rationalism, humanism, and the arts. The concept of spirituality is found in all cultures and societies. All of these factors can influence how patients and health care professionals perceive health and illness and how they interact with one another.” The “World Health Organization-Quality of Life – Spirituality, Religion and Personal Beliefs Group” (WHO-QOL SRPB) conducted a study in 18 countries (n = 5087) that showed that spirituality, religion, and personal beliefs (SRPB) correlated highly with all of the WHO-QOL domains (p