The Karnataka State Chapter Committee of Indian Yoga Association conducted the first Yoga Therapy Research Conference in collaboration with RV Institute of Management, Bengaluru on October 31, 2023, also the Foundation Day of Indian Yoga Association and Karnataka State Chapter Formation Day.

The Conference, held in the vibrant city of Bangalore as IYA completed its 15th year, was a remarkable exploration into the profound world of yoga therapy. Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape, this event served as a sanctuary for those seeking to understand, practice, and embrace the therapeutic potential of yoga. A unique amalgamation of ancient wisdom and modern science, this conference unveiled the transformative power of yoga therapy.

The event was graced by Yogacharya Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, Joint Secretary, IYA, Dr Lath Sateesh and Smt Geeta Sateesh from Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram, Chennai, Dr Sharadchandra Bhalekar from Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala, Dr Amit Singh from SVYASA, Bengaluru.
They were hosted by KASCC Chairperson, Sri Bhawarlal ji Arya, Secretary Sri Ravi Tumuluri, Convener, Academics, Prof Purushottam Bung, Deputy Conveners Smt Padmarekha, Sri Mohan Ranganathan, Sri Vinay Siddaiah and Member, Smt Swati Morzaria.

The event began with the inauguration, melodious chant and OM resonated, setting the tone for the days to come. The lighting of diya symbolised the inner light to be lit towards life, and YOGA itself is way of life.

Dignitaries on the dais gave insight about the yoga and how to integrate in everyday life. Mr. Vinay Siddaiah gave a bird view about the conference, what we can expect and to be unbiased and be open to feedback.

The keynote talk by Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani was very inspiring and he pressed upon using Yoga Chikista instead of yoga therapy. He also gave insight into how yoga changes the way of life. Following the ashtanga yoga can change one looks at life in a different perspective. They shared their experiences and insights on the integration of yoga therapy into mainstream healthcare, highlighting its efficacy in healing both body and mind.
Holistic Workshops

Participants had the opportunity to attend a diverse array of workshops, ranging from therapeutic asanas to guided meditation and mindfulness practices. These workshops aimed to provide practical knowledge and hands-on experience in using yoga as a therapeutic tool.

The session began with Dr Sharadchandra Bhalekar from Kaivalyadhama, who gave Talk on Yogic Treatment of Backpain management. The session was eye opening, that even the simplest asanas can do wonders if it used accordingly. He said Progressive management of back pain with the customised asanas and meditation is key to back pain management. Giving the patient the deep relaxation will help in management of back pain. He stressed on strengthening the muscles and maintaining it with simple asanas.

The session by Dr Latha Sateesh from KYM on Yogic Approach to Anxiety and Depression, where she mentioned about the mind in Yogic aspect. They also gave examples of cases how they treat the patient in holistic way. The consultation to assessment, then into the care plan of the patient in yogic progressive way is done so precisely with one-to-one approach.

The afternoon session on Diabetes management -Yogic Way by Dr Amit Singh was very simple and insightful. He explained the root cause for any disease by giving simple comparative example of mobile. He explained about different Koshas by comparing with mobile which was easy to understand even to the layman. The importance of visualisation and scientific correlation to that was explained in an effective way. He also showed the study conducted by the Government of India on diabetes management by yoga and explained in detail about the standard protocol given to prevent and management of diabetes.

The keynote speaker Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani demonstrated that simple yogic asanas change the chemical reactions in our body. The session started with energising yogic exercise and continued to be inspiring throughout. He talked about ‘salutogenesis’ which means cause of health and wellness instead of causation for diseases. He also mentioned about the management of respiratory diseases and DIABETIC LUNG. The ashtanga yoga and its importance in the management of respiratory issues was discussed.
The paper presentation was done by two team, RVIM and Christ College which gave some insight on approach of different areas through yoga.

The most awaiting Panel Discussion on Yoga Therapy vs Yogapathy, panellists were Dr Anand Balayogi Bhavanani, Dr Sharadchandra Bhalekar, Dr Geetha Sateesh, Dr Amit Singh, and moderated by Dr Purushottam Bung and Shri Vinay Siddaiah. The panellists shared their thoughts on the topic and discussed about the need of the hour. The specific or customised way of treating the individual is what makes YOGA different from other system of medicine. Also stressed on policy changes by the Government of Indian to get YOGA into in everyday life of an Individual so that in real term we can achieve the HEALTH.

The conference was fruitful. The valedictory and awarding for presentation done at the last session of the conference. The conference ended by National Anthem.

The food at this conference was sponsored by SARVAM Educational Foundation, best Research Paper was sponsored by RVIM and printing was sponsored in part by Arsha Yoga Gurukulam Trust, Kaipamangalam Post, Thrissur DT.