The Institute of Salutogenesis and Complementary Medicine (ISCM) of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (SBV), in association with the Mother Care Foundation (MCF)—a centre for alcohol and cannabis de-addiction and rehabilitation; organised and conducted an awareness program on de-addiction and rehabilitation — in collaboration with the Indian Yoga Association (IYA), Puducherry Chapter and the Indian Medical Association (IMA) on the 5th of February 2026. This unique activity involving both Yoga and Music therapies from a Health care University- marked a significant milestone in the field of alcohol deaddiction in Puducherry.
The programme was led by Dr. Balaji R, Assistant Professor, School of Yoga Therapy, ISCM, General Secretary of the IYA Puducherry Chapter; who also serves as the Medical Officer at MCF. The initiative aimed to promote awareness, healing, and overall well-being through complementary therapies.
The programme began with a yoga therapy session conducted by Prof Dr. Meena Ramanathan- Principal, School of Yoga Therapy, ISCM and also the Vice Chairperson of IYA Puducherry Chapter. The session included Jathis, Om Chanting, and Bhramari Pranayama, which collectively helped participants release tension, let go of negative energy, improve emotional balance, and experience calmness and inner stability.
This was followed by a highly engaging music therapy session delivered by the School of Music Therapy, where participants actively took part in group singing and music-coordinated movements, creating a lively, joyful, and interactive atmosphere that encouraged emotional expression and relaxation.
The sessions were conducted successfully and witnessed active and enthusiastic participation from over 70 patients. The thoughtfully designed activities created a calm, positive, and supportive environment, enabling participants to relax, reflect, and actively engage in the therapeutic process.
Participants expressed heartfelt gratitude for the initiative and emphasized the importance of conducting such programmes regularly. They were highly motivated and appreciated for their openness and willingness to embrace positive change. The programme effectively highlighted the transformative and long-lasting impact of yoga and music therapies in the recovery journey, reinforcing the value of holistic approaches in de-addiction and rehabilitation.
We express our sincere gratitude to Prof Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, Director of ISCM, SBV and Chairperson of the IYA Puducherry Chapter; Dr. Sudhakar, President of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Pondicherry; and Mr. Ramesh, Chairman of the Mother Care Foundation, for their valuable support and encouragement in making this programme a success.
Overall, the initiative proved to be meaningful, inspiring, and memorable for all involved.
