overview of the cyter of sri balaji vidyapeeth
TRANSCRIPT
ESTABLISHMENT OF CYTER:
Modern medical advancements provide rationale for integration of various traditional
healing techniques like Yoga to promote healing, health, and longevity. Thanks to the
foresight of Chairman and management of SBVU, CYTER, the Centre for Yoga Therapy,
Education and Research was started on 1 November 2010 and is functioning in 1st floor,
I block, adjacent to the main Hospital block, MGMCRI.
IMPORTANCE OF CYTER:
The Govt of India, Ministry of Health & FW is currently promoting indigenous systems of
health in a strong manner through AYUSH. The limitations of modern medicine in
managing stress induced psychosomatic, chronic illnesses are the strength of Yoga and
hence a holistic integration of both systems
enables best quality of patient care. CYTER can
be projected a nodal center to train medical
educators and administrators for setting up such
integrative health centers in our country as we
have the necessary infrastructure and man
power. We can proudly state that it is only in the
supportive and innovative milieu of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth that the holistic art and science
of Yoga, our cultural heritage, has been able to reach both the classes and the masses
of our society optimally, effectively and holistically.
“There are many centers where you can get a Yoga degree, attend a Yoga therapy
session or find Yoga research being undertaken. However, to have all three happening
in one place is surely innovative. This center is indeed a role-model that combines the
best of the East with that of the West.” - Joseph le Page, Integrative Yoga Therapy, USA
At CYTER we have an integrated set up where we are educating future Yoga therapists
while simultaneously helping patients recover from illnesses and at the same time
developing an understanding through scientific research.
Whereas Yoga is usually found in departments of Physical Education and Sports in most
universities, we at CYTER have it in a medical institution thus enhancing the learning
curve of our trainees. This enables us to offer integrative and holistic benefits for patients
in our hospital as many departments refer patients for Yoga therapy regularly.
VISION:
The innovative integration of traditional Yoga therapy with modern medical
science, through a conscious focus on salutogenesis, thus enhancing holistic
health and wellness.
MISSION:
Promotion of positive health through application of rationale Yoga therapy for
patients of various medical conditions.
Education of qualified and competent Yoga therapists capable of practicing
integrative medicine.
Creation of qualitative and quantitative research evidence for rationale
application of Yoga as a preventive, promotive, rehabilitative and curative
therapy.
Investigation of the role of Yoga therapy as complementary medicine in
addition to modern medicine or in situations where modern medicine has no
definite cure or palliation.
Investigation of the role of Yoga therapy in association with other methods of
complementary medicine.
FACULTY MEMBERS OF CYTER:
DIRECTOR: Yogacharya Dr. ANANDA BALAYOGI BHAVANANI MBBS, ADY, DPC,
DSM, PGDFH, PGDY, MD (AM), FIAY, C-IAYT
DEPUTY DIRECTOR: Yogachemmal Dr. MEENA RAMANATHAN BSc, MA, CYT,
DYNS, PGDY, MSc, PhD, C-IAYT
YOGA LECTURER: Yogachemmal G DAYANIDY BSc, CYT, PGDYE, DRAY, MCA,
MSc (Yoga), PGDYT
YOGA INSTRUCTORS:
Sri P DANUSHAPNADEESH, BSc, MCA, DYEd, PGDYT
Smt G SARULATHA, Diploma Yoga and Bharatanatyam
EXTERNAL CONSULTANTS / ADJUNCT FACULTY
Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani, Director ICYER, Pondicherry
Sri Subodh Tiwari, CEO, Kaivalyadhama, Lonavla
Dr BR Sharma, Principal GS College of Yoga & Cultural Synthesis, Kaivalyadhama
Dr Kausthub Desikachar, CEO, Krishnamacharya Healing & Yoga Foundation, Chennai
Dr Arpan Bhatt, HOD, Swasthavrutta , Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar
Dr Satish Phatak, Medical Consultant, Kaivalyadhama, Lonavla.
Dr A Sanguida, IGIDS, SBV
BOARD OF STUDIES
Prof. Madanmohan, Ex-Director CYTER – External expert
Yogacharini Meenakshi Devi Bhavanani, Director ICYER, Pondicherry- External expert
Dr. B Rajalakshmi, Department of AYUSH, Pondicherry- External Expert
Dr. J Mohanakrishnan, Physiotherapist JIPMER, External Expert
Dr. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, Director CYTER
Sri G Dayanidy, Lecturer CYTER
Dr. Meena Ramanathan, Deputy Director CYTER, Member Secretary
IMPORTANT MILESTONES:
Year Significant Event
2010 Foundation of CYTER (1.11.2010)
2011 Yoga therapy OPD starts functioning at MGMCRI
2012 Introduction of yoga for BSc nursing students
Regular awareness programs in MRD and SAF
2013 First research publication from CYTER
National workshop on yoga and lifestyle organised by CYTER
2014 Introduction of yoga for MBBS students
PGDYT course inaugurated
National workshop on sleep, consciousness and meditation
2015 Introduction of yoga for BDS students
1st International Day of Yoga celebrations at SBV
National workshop on therapeutic potential of yoga
2016 MoU between SBV and Kaivalyadhama, Maharastra.
2nd International Day of Yoga celebrations at SBV
National workshop on introducing yoga in HPE
International Symposium on yoga and Wellbeing
Inauguration of PG certificate programs in yoga therapy
Inauguration of MPhil in yoga therapy
2017 MoU between SBV and Amity University, New Delhi
3rd International Day of Yoga celebrations at SBV
National workshop on yoga and chronic diseases
Inauguration of PhD in yoga therapy
YOGA THERAPY:
CYTER is conducting a scientifically sound Yoga therapy programme through its Yoga
Therapy OPD in I Block from 9 am to 1 pm, Monday-Saturday. Consultations are offered
by Dr. AB Bhavanani, Director CYTER and Dr Meena Ramanathan, the Deputy Director.
Qualified Yoga instructors are imparting the schedules daily from 9 am to 4.30 pm.
Individualised and group Yoga therapy sessions are being conducted for various medical
conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, musculoskeletal and psychiatric disorders
with excellent feedback from participants.
Yoga therapy and lifestyle consultations are offered daily as part of Basic, Superior,
Complete Cardiac and Deluxe Health Check packages of Master Heath Check-up in the
Corporate Services Wing of the hospital since October 2013.
We are also offering non-therapeutic general sessions for faculty, staff and students of
SBVU from 6 to 7am and 4.30 to 5.30pm on all working days.
Male Female TG Total
2010 (from Nov) 28 30 - 58
2011 440 776 26 1242
2012 211 544 10 765
2013 544 788 2 1334
2014 2047 2276 122 4445
2015 2942 5769 42 8753
2016 5607 9357 89 15053
2017 (till
September) 3940 4942 - 8882
Grand total (Since 2010) 40,532
YOGA EDUCATION:
Holistic health, integrative treatment and mind–body medicine are now buzz words.
Integrating Yoga with modern medicine will enable us to produce holistic physicians for
health delivery of tomorrow as integrative medicine becomes popular.
Our PG Diploma in Yoga Therapy (PGDYT) is one of the innovative courses in the world
as it is offered through a medical institution and brings together ancient wisdom of Yoga
with the evidence based approach of modern medicine. The course is conducted by
experienced faculties who have Yoga and modern medical training as well as a wealth of
therapeutic and research experience with more than 200 publications to their credit.
Three batches of students (n=15) have graduated from our PG Diploma in Yoga Therapy
(PGDYT) and Fourth batch of students (n=7) are awaiting their results. We are very
proud that these 22 students are the amongst the first Yoga Therapists graduating from a
modern medical university. Currently 7 students are undergoing the certificate program
(CFY), 5 the PGDYT and 3 the MPhil in Yoga Therapy. Two candidates have been
selected for PhD in Yoga Therapy program.
Inspired by the success of this course, and to provide a new pathway for the aspiring
healers across health profession, credit based programs were started with the following
options:
1. Pursue Certificate Courses in Yoga Therapy of three months duration (total four
courses of 8 Credit points, each), with options for exit after any course, thus obtaining
a course completion certificate. (8 x 4 = 32 Credits)
2. Appear for PGDYT comprehensive examination, based on the four courses of study
(8 x 4 = 32 + 2Cr for portfolio = 34 Credits)
3. Continue further to M. Phil. program of one year (38 credits), subject to the candidate
holding a Master’s Degree (science graduates will be given preference).
4. This program eventually leads to PhD Program in Yoga therapy that has been
introduced in academic year 2017-18.
To further facilitate ease of student progression, we have introduced both lateral entry
and exit provisions in the courses. Students can leave after completing the certificate
courses or continue in the PGDYT. Those students who have a Master’s degree (science
graduates will be given preference) can join the M Phil program if they have completed
PGDYT from SBV earlier. This provision for lateral entry and exit is summarized in Fig.2.
Fig.1: Courses and milestones in Yoga Therapy Programs- Four2One Model
C1, C2, C3 and C4 are Core Certificate courses leading to PGDYT. The two Electives E1
and E2 are to be chosen from 12 topics related to Yoga Therapy and its clinical
applications, which then culminates in one Major Research Project in M Phil.
Fig.2: Career Pathway in Yoga Therapy (YT) with provisions for lateral entry and exit.
Lateral Exit
Lateral Entry
Lateral Exit
CERTIFICATE COURSES
PGDYT
M. Phil
The major highlight of the new programs is adoption of Credit Based Choice System
(CBCS) recommended by NAAC and UGC as a major reform in higher education. As a
corollary, a competency based approach has been proposed for these programs.
Competency Based Approach
Competency based approach is the haul mark of a progressive curriculum. Knowledge
and skills are of no significance, unless they are used by the professionals for the
benefit of communities.
The above core competencies are the main essence of the programs. However, the way
in which they are learnt and assessed varies at different levels. For instance, a student
may be taught and assessed for the ‘knowledge of facts and concepts’ at the certificate
level, ‘understanding of concepts’ at the Diploma level and ‘application of concepts’ in a
real life or simulated situation at the M.Phil level.
In summary, the proposed program gives immense flexibility for learners to pursue
diverse careers as Yoga Therapists and enables creation of a pool of trained Yoga
therapists possessing requisite skills and competence to impart sound Yoga therapy in
different medical conditions. The system provides ample opportunities for self-directed
learning, guided by extensive mentoring, small group learning and reflective practice
within the campus as well as in their work places. It provides a new career pathway for
the students and teachers to synergize the capacity building in Yoga Therapy education.
The program ultimately aims to create human resource capable of cutting edge research
into fundamental aspects of Yoga as well as its applications in different medical
conditions.
COURSE CONTENT OUTLINE FOR CERTIFICATE AND PGDYT PROGRAMS
Course 1 Course 2
1st
Semester Exam
Course 3 Course 4 2nd
Semester Exam
July - Sept Oct – Dec Jan – March April-June
Foundations
of Yoga
(CFY)
Foundations of Yoga Therapy (CFYT) 3 written
theory
papers and 1 practicum
4 x 100=
400 marks
Applications
of Yoga
(CAY)
Clinical Applications
of Yoga Therapy (CAYT)
3 written theory
papers and 1 practicum
4 x 100=
400 marks
Lectures/ seminars of 2.5 hr/wk x12
wks
= 30 hr
Lectures / seminars of
5 hr/wk x12 wks
= 60 hr
Lectures/ seminars of 2.5 hr/wk x12
wks
= 30 hr
Lectures/ seminars of 5 hr/wk x12
wks
= 60 hr
2Cr 4 Cr 2Cr 4 Cr
Practicum training of
10 hr /wk x12 wks
= 120 hr
Practicum training of
5 hr/wk x12 wks
= 60 hr
Practicum training of
10 hr/wk x12 wks
= 120 hr
Practicum training of
5 hr/wk x12 wks
= 60 hr
4 Cr 2 Cr 4 Cr 2 Cr
Supervised / Self learning 5 hr/wk x12 wks = 60 hr
Supervised / Self learning 5 hr/wk x12 wks = 60 hr
Supervised / Self learning 5 hr/wk x12 wks = 60 hr
Supervised / Self learning 5 hr/wk x12 wks = 60 hr
Total marks =800
Portfolio
2 Cr 2 Cr 2 Cr 2 Cr 2 Cr
Total = 8 Total = 8 Total = 8 Total = 8 Total Credits=34
Note: Credit Calculation.
One credit is gained by engaging in 15 hours of direct instruction, or 30 hours of self-study; Marks of each Semester Examination are converted into Grade Points and SGPA computed as per UGC norms. CGPA is computed for the total of both semesters as per
UGC norms
COMPETENCIES EXPECTED AT THE END OF FIRST SEMESTER
i. Ability to define yoga and yoga therapy with an expressed understanding of the
limitations and strengths of the system with reference to traditional literature
and modern research.
ii. Ability to explain integrated functioning of the human body with reference to
different systems and the effects of yoga techniques as appropriate.
iii. Should be able to perform and teach different yoga techniques while
expressing significance, benefits, contraindications and step-by-step procedure
for each one.
iv. Ability to express and demonstrate diagnostic methodology of yoga chikitsa
with reference to panchakosha, pranavayu, vyuha&dwadasharogalakshanam
models.
v. Should be able to express concepts of yoga as a healthy lifestyle and as an
adjunct/ complementary integrative therapy with other systems of healing such
as allopathy and the AYUSH systems.
vi. Ability to express the important strengths, limitations, opportunities and
challenges of modern yoga research.
COMPETENCIES EXPECTED AT THE END OF SECOND SEMESTER
i. Ability to express in detail various applications of yoga in different fields of
human activity such as the care of special children, geriatric society,
transgender population, rehabilitation, corporate sector and in field of sports.
ii. Expressed understanding of therapeutic potential of different yoga techniques
in various medical conditions with reference to their underlying mechanisms.
iii. Ability to demonstrate yoga practices appropriate for different medical
conditions along with expressed advice on the precautions, limitations and
contraindications.
iv. Ability to conduct personalized yoga consultation and reach an integrative
diagnosis using modern medical as well as yogic concepts and techniques.
v. Should be able to prepare appropriate yoga therapy protocol for patients of
different conditions including suggestions for lifestyle modifications.
vi. Should be able to conduct integrated yoga therapy sessions for individual
patients of different disorders as well as groups of patients with similar
conditions.
vii. Ability to document and report short and long term changes in normal
volunteers and patients before and after undergoing yoga therapy.
COURSE CONTENT OUTLINE FOR M PHIL IN YOGA THERAPY
1st Semester 2nd Semester
July - Dec Examination Jan - June Examination
Elective-1
Review of literature,
10 case studies and
monograph on one of
12 topics in Yoga
therapy clinical
applications.
180 hr self-study
(6 Cr)
1 written theory
paper of 80
marks and 20
marks for
monograph.
(Total= 100
marks)
Core:
Research methodology.
SBV workshop series
and grounding in
theoretical foundations
of research. Application
of research in Yoga and
Yoga therapy. 30 hr
(2 Cr)
1 written theory
paper
1x100=100
Elective-2
Review of literature,
10 case studies and
monograph on one of
the 12 topics of Yoga
therapy clinical
applications.
180 hr self-study
1 written theory
paper of 80
marks and 20
marks for
monograph.
(Total= 100
marks)
Major project
Development of one of
the electives into a full-
fledged research study
with dissertation.
360 hr self-study under
Guide.
Assessment of
dissertation by
internal and
external experts
with viva.
(100+100= 200
marks)
(6 Cr) (12Cr)
Mentoring and
practicum training of
10 hr/wk x 24wks
= 240 hr
Assessment by
internal audit.
Viva and
practical on Yoga
therapy.
(100 marks)
Portfolio and
practicum training
of 5 hr/wk x 24wks
= 120 hr
Assessment by
internal audit with
viva and practical
on Yoga therapy
(100 marks)
(8 Cr) (4 Cr)
20 Cr 18 Cr Total = 38 Cr
Note: Credit Calculation.
One credit is gained by engaging in 15 hours of direct instruction, or 30 hours of self-
study; Marks of each Semester examination are converted into Grade Points and SGPA
computed as per UGC norms. CGPA is computed for the total of both semesters as per
UGC norms.
COMPETENCIES EXPECTED AT THE END OF FIRST SEMESTER
i. Demonstrated ability to prepare appropriate yoga therapy protocol for patients of
different conditions including suggestions for lifestyle modifications.
ii. Demonstrated ability to conduct integrated yoga therapy sessions for individual
patients of different disorders as well as groups of patients with similar
conditions
iii. Demonstrated ability to perform qualitative literature review of Yoga therapy and
prepare a monograph on such literary research.
iv. Demonstrated ability to create a research protocol for studying fundamental
aspects as well as applied therapeutic potential of Yoga in different medical
conditions.
v. Demonstrated ability to analyze research data with appropriate statistical
methods.
vi. Demonstrated ability to present such research findings with oral and poster
presentations.
COMPETENCIES EXPECTED AT THE END OF SECOND SEMESTER
i. Demonstrated ability to express in detail various applications of yoga in different
fields of human activity.
ii. Expressed understanding of therapeutic potential of different yoga techniques in
various medical conditions with reference to their underlying mechanisms.
iii. Ability to demonstrate yoga practices appropriate for different conditions along
with expressed advice on precautions, limitations and contraindications.
iv. Ability to conduct personalized yoga consultation and reach an integrative
diagnosis using modern medical as well as yogic concepts and techniques.
Should be able to prepare appropriate yoga therapy protocol for patients of
different conditions including suggestions for lifestyle modifications.
v. Should be able to conduct integrated yoga therapy sessions for individual
patients as well as groups of patients.
vi. Ability to help organize and conduct seminar/ workshops through intra and inter-
departmental collaboration.
vii. Ability to document and report short and long term changes in normal volunteers
and patients before and after undergoing Yoga therapy.
viii. Demonstrated ability to conduct pilot studies on fundamental and applied
aspects of Yoga and analyze data with appropriate statistical methods.
ix. Ability to write a dissertation of 75 pages using IMRAD structure.
x. Demonstrated ability to present research findings through both oral and poster
presentations in local/national events.
xi. Ability to prepare full-fledged paper for publication in research journals and have
at least one publication resulting from the work done in the major project.
YOGA RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS
In the past seven years since its inception, the CYTER team has published 7
compilations and books, 3 chapters in edited books, 69 papers in National and
International journals as well as 24 abstracts.
Highlighted publications:
1. Sovik R, Bhavanani AB. History, Philosophy, and Practice of Yoga. In: Sat Bir
Khalsa, Lorenzo Cohen, Timothy McCall, and Shirley Telles editors. The
Principles and Practice of Yoga in Health Care. East Lothian, UK: Handspring Pub
Ltd ; 2016. p 17-29.
2. Bhavanani AB and Ramanathan M. Psychophysiology of Yoga Postures: Ancient
and Modern Perspectives of Asanas. In: Shirley Telles and Nilkamal Singh
editors. Research-Based Perspectives on the Psychophysiology of Yoga. IGI
Global, Editors:,2017. p.1-16
3. Bhavanani AB, Ramanathan M, Balaji R and Pushpa D. Immediate effect of
suryanamaskar on reaction time and heart rate in female volunteers. Indian J
Physiol Pharmacol 2013; 57 (2): 199–204.
4. Bhavanani AB, Ramanathan M, Madanmohan. Immediate cardiovascular effects
of a single yoga session in different conditions. Altern Integ Med 2013; 2: 144.
5. Bhavanani AB, Ramanathan M, Madanmohan, Srinivasan AR. Hematological,
biochemical and psychological effects of a yoga training programme in nursing
students. Int Res J Pharm App Sci 2013; 3(6):17-23
6. Bhavanani AB, Ramanathan M, Balaji R, Pushpa D. Differential effects of
uninostril and alternate nostril pranayamas on cardiovascular parameters and
reaction time. Int J Yoga 2014; 7: 60-65.
7. Bhavanani AB, Ramanathan M, Madanmohan. Immediate effect of alternate
nostril breathing on cardiovascular parameters and reaction time. Online
International Interdisciplinary Research Journal 2014; 4; (Special Issue): 297-302.
8. Bhavanani AB. Yoga. Clinical Roundup: Selected Treatment Options for
Depression. Alternative and Complementary Therapies 2014; 20: 54-55.
9. Meena Ramanathan, Bhavanani AB. Immediate effect of chandra and suryanadi
pranayamas on cardiovascular parameters and reaction time in a geriatric
population. International Journal of Physiology 2014; 2 (1): 59-63.
10. Bhavanani AB, Ramanathan M, Balaji R, Pushpa D. Comparative immediate
effect of different yoga asanas on heart rate and blood pressure in healthy young
volunteers. International Journal of Yoga 2014; 7: 89-95.
11. Lee Majewski, Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani. A novel rejuvenation program for
cancer patients at Kaivalyadhama, India. Yoga Mimamsa 2014; 46:20-24.
12. Bhavanani AB. Role of yoga in health and disease. Journal of Symptoms and
Signs 2014; 3(5): 399-406.
13. Bhavanani AB, Ramanathan M, Trakroo M. Single session of integrated ‘silver
yoga’ program improves cardiovascular parameters in senior citizens.. J Intercult
Ethnopharmacol 2015; 4(2): 134-37.
14. Bhavanani AB, Ramanathan M, Trakroo M, Thirusangu S. Effects of a single
session of yogic relaxation on cardiovascular parameters in a transgender
population. International Journal of Physiology 2016; 4 (1): 27-31.
15. Ramanathan M, Bhavanani AB. Health status of elderly women residing in a
hospice in Pondicherry. International Journal of Physiology 2016; 4 (1): 76-80.
16. Bhavanani AB, Raj JB, Ramanathan M, Trakroo M. Effect of different pranayamas
on respiratory sinus arrhythmia. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research 2016;
10 (3): CC04-CC06.
17. Bhavanani AB. A brief qualitative survey on the utilization of Yoga research
resources by Yoga teachers. J Intercult Ethnopharmacol. 2016; 5(2): 168-173
18. Bhavanani AB, Majewski L, Tiwari S. Effects of an Intensive 3-Week Yoga Retreat
on Sense of Well Being in Cancer Survivors. J Alt Med Res 2016; 2(2): 116.
19. Bierski K, Bhavanani AB, Eswaran S, Madanmohan. Finding Peace on a
Psychiatric Ward with Yoga: Report on a Pilot Anthropological
Study in Pondicherry, India. Annals of SBV 2016; 5 (2): 14-19.
20. Ramanathan M, Bhavanani AB, Trakroo M. Effect of a 12-week yoga therapy
program on mental health status in elderly women inmates of a hospice. Int J
Yoga 2017; 10: 24-28.
21. Ramanathan M, Bhavanani AB. Understanding how yoga works: a short review of
findings from CYTER, Pondicherry, India. EJPMR 2017; 4(1): 256-262.
22. Bhavanani AB. Integrating Yoga in Health Professional Education: The SBV
Experience. Journal of Education Technology in Health Sciences 4 (2), 42-46.
CONSULTANCY EXTENSION AND OUTREACH ACTIVITES:
Regular talks as part of arthritis, obesity, back pain, diabetes awareness programmes
organized by various departments.
Capsule talks and lecture-demonstrations in Scientific Academic Forum (SAF)
Outreach programmes in educational institutions and other social organizations to
create awareness of Yoga and the functioning of CYTER at MGMCRI.
A CME-cum-Workshop on Yoga and Lifestyle Disorders was organized by CYTER
and Department of Physiology at MGMC&RI on 22 November 2013. More than 250
medical and paramedical professionals and students took part and got an overview of
the role Yoga can play in lifestyle disorders by inculcating a healthy lifestyle.
CYTER inaugurated a special SILVER CITIZENS YOGA AND HEALTH
PROGRAMME for Senior Citizens of the Serene Pelican Belfort Township. More than
25 senior citizens attended the sessions at CYTER.
Dr Ananda nominated to Consultative Committee of WHO COLLABORATING
CENTRE IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE (YOGA) at the Morarji Desai National
Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), New Delhi. He attended the 1st Consultative Meeting at
MDNIY on 22nd and 23rd September 2014.
CYTER conducted a special Programme for people of the third gender from SCHOD
Society, Cuddalore from 3rd to 7th November 2014.
Coordinator-CYTER Dr Meena Ramanathan conducted a CME on 23.11.2014 for
Nurses, Educators, Social Workers, Sisters and Nuns, staff and faculty of the
congregation of St.Cluny as part of The South East Province Health Commission
Meet for the South Zone on Yoga & Meditation; The Mind-Body Medicine; The Balm
to Calm the Mind at St. Joseph’s Hospital (CLUNY).
A CME on “SLEEP, CONSCIOUSNESS AND MEDITATION: NEURO-
PHYSIOLOGICAL CORRELATES” was held at MGMC&RI, Pondicherry on
27th November 2014. This event was organized by Department of Physiology and
Centre for Yoga Therapy, Education and Research (CYTER), MGMC&RI,
Pondicherry. More than 300 medical and paramedical professionals and students as
well as Yoga practitioners and enthusiasts took part in the day-long event that
updated knowledge of participants in fields of sleep, consciousness and meditation
and introduced them to the practices leading to meditation.
The CYTER team of Prof Madanmohan (Director), Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani
(Deputy Director) and Dr. Meena Ramanathan (Coordinator - cum- Yoga therapist)
presented a special Workshop on Yoga Therapy and Yoga awareness programme
was conducted at the 21st INTERNATIONAL YOGA FESTIVAL organized by the
Department of Tourism, Government of Pondicherry at Gandhi Tidal from January 4th
to 7th 2015.
The CYTER team were invited resource persons for the CME on “Therapeutic
Potential of Yoga” organized by Department of Physiology, Sri Venkateshwaraa
Medical College Hospital & Research Center, Ariyur, Pondicherry. The event on 20th
January was attended by more than 200 participants.
Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani was a Resource Person for the online MEDITATION
SUMMIT organised by Ananda Sanga Educational Institute of South Africa. A
worldwide audience listened to eminent experts from 23rd to 29th January 2015.
Dr Ananda was an invited speaker for NATIONAL YOGA WEEK-2015 held at
MDNIY, New Delhi from 12-18 February, 2015. He presented invited talk on "Yoga for
non-communicable disorders" and participated in Executive Council meetings of the
Indian Yoga Association.
Dr Meena was invited to be a panelist for the Woman’s Day celebrations event
organized by Pondicherry Tourism and The Hindu at Hotel Surguru. She was
felicitated for her significant contribution to welfare of women in Pondicherry and
presented her views on the empowerment of women through Yoga.
Dr Ananda attended the Board Meeting of the Council for Yoga Accreditation
International of which he is a member of the Board of Directors. The meeting was
held at Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Lonavla, India on 14-15 March and presided
over by Shri Om Prakash Tiwari, Chairman of Board in the presence of Dr HR
Nagendra, Vice-Chair of Board.
Dr Ananda participated in Executive Council meeting of Indian Yoga Association at,
New Delhi where many important decisions were taken regarding International Day of
Yoga and accreditation and registration of Yoga practitioners in India.
Dr Meena conducted an interactive CME on “Rediscover thyself through the ancient
wisdom of Yoga” at the St Joseph’s Hospital (Cluny), Pondicherry that was well
attended by senior doctors of Pondicherry.
Dr Ananda was nominated to Scientific Advisory Committee of Central Council for
Research in Yoga and Naturopathy in Ministry of AYUSH, Govt of India. This is very
prestigious as this council oversees research and propagation of Yoga at the national
level. His tenure will last from 2015-2018.
Dr Ananda was invited to be on AYUSH Ministry Committee of Yoga Experts for
International Day of Yoga celebrations 2015. He attended meetings in New Delhi in
April-June 2015 chaired by Dr HR Nagendra, Chancellor SVYSA University and
attended by eminent yoga experts as well as secretaries and officers from
departments of AYUSH, MEA, HRD and Culture. His contribution to the success of
the first IDY celebrations was acknowledged by Ministry of AYUSH during valedictory
function of its International Conference on Yoga and Holistic Health on 22 June 2015
at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi and attended by delegates from all over the world.
Yoga sessions for faculty, staff and students of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth were
inaugurated at CYTER on 23 September by Hon' Chancellor Prof Rajaram Pagadala
in presence of Prof N Ananthakrishnan (Dean PG Studies, Research and Allied
Health Sciences) and Prof Ravi Shankar (Dean Admin). Classes are offered at
CYTER on all working days between 6 to 7am and 4.30 to 5.30pm.
A very successful interactive workshop on Yoga therapy was conducted by the
CYTER team at the 22nd International Yoga Festival organised by Govt of
Pondicherry Department of Tourism from 4-7 January 2016.
CYTER provided awareness to more than 1000 visitors at the CYTER stall during
the event that was very well received by all Yoga enthusiasts and general public.
Dr Meena, gave interactive session on Yoga for Stress Management for
Continuous Heath Workers Education to benefit Heath Workers of IGGGH & PGI
on the 23 January. Demonstration was done by the staff and students of CYTER.
Dr Meena was an invited guest at the Inauguration of “Yoga and Naturopathy Unit
in Lifestyle Modification Health Centre”, Government of Puducherry; Directorate of
Indian Systems of Medicine& Homeopathy (DISM&H), by Hon Chief Minister Thiru
N.Rangasamy and Dr K.V.Raman, Director, DISM&H on 3 March 2016.
Dr Ananda was resource person for the CME on “Memory: Mind to Molecules”
held at Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Medical College & Hospital, Siruvachur,
Perambalur on 5.3.2016.
CYTER team were resource persons for the CME and workshop on "Introduction
of Yoga in medical curriculum" organized by departments of Anatomy, Physiology
and Biochemistry at SSSMCRI on 9 March 2016.
Dr Meena was invited as a Consultant to Kaivalyadhama, Lonavla to facilitate
YOGA MELA, a program specifically designed for the differently abled children of
Samvadshala School for Special Children in Lonavla who participated along with
family and teachers. This was a collaborative activity between Kaivalyadhama,
CYTER and Freie University of Berlin, Germany on the 14 and 15 March 2016.
As part of the National Conference on “Chronobiology and Health” organized by
Department of Physiology, MGMCRI a workshop on “Adaptive resilience
exercises as envisioned in Yoga” was conducted by Dr Meena, Dr Ananda and
CYTER team at CYTER Yoga hall on 19 March 2016. 65 delegates of the
conference participated and thoroughly enjoyed the interactive sessions.
Dr Meena was an invited speaker for National Workshop on Yoga conducted by
Tamil Nadu Physical Education and Sports University on 9 April 2016 at Chennai.
As per guidelines issued by UGC and Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India
International Day of Yoga 2016 was celebrated at SBV in a grand manner
from 19-21 June 2016. As a prelude to this event, SBV YOGA FEST was
celebrated in May 2016 to create awareness amongst the student community.
Dr Ananda was resource person for International Conference on "Yoga for the
Body and Beyond" organized at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi from 22-23 June
2016 by Ministry of AYUSH, Govt of India.
Dr Ananda & Dr Meena attended BOS meeting at Kaivalyadhama. Dr Ananda
also conducted the interview for yoga teachers while Dr Meena conducted
lectures at GS College & Samvad Special School.
Dr Ananda gave an interactive talk on " Bursting the managerial stress bubble: the
yoga way" at Hotel Athithi for Madras Management Association, Pondy Chapter
on 29 July 2016.
International Symposium on Yoga and Wellbeing organized by CYTER, at Sri
Balaji Vidyapeeth University, Pondicherry on 12th August 2016.
Dr. Ananda, Dr Meena and Sri G Dayanidy participated and presented papers in
the National Conference on Changing Trends in Health Professions Education
(NC-CTHPE 2016) at Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry 18-20 Aug 2016.
Dr. Ananda and Dr Meena were invited to give guest lecture from university
teaching faculty at the UGC HRDC Pondicherry University on 26.8.2016.
Dr Ananda was invited Guest Speaker and Co-chairperson for Keynote session of
National Seminar on Emerging Trends of Research in Yoga & Naturopathy
organized by CCRYN, Ministry of AYUSH at New Delhi 16-18 September 2016.
Dr Meena and Sri G Dayanidy attended the orientation program for selection of
QCI Examiners for Indian Yoga Association (IYA) at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavla,
Pune on 19.9.2016. They both participated in the workshop organized by Ministry
of AYUSH, Govt of India, under the scheme for Voluntary Certification of Yoga
Professionals at two levels, managed by Quality Council of India, IYA.
Dr Ananda presented 2-day workshop on anatomy, physiology, pathology and
Yoga therapy with reference to cardio-respiratory systems at Kaivalyadhama,
Lonavla on 23-24 September 2016. The two day program with more than 9 hours
of teaching was well received by more than a hundred students of various diploma
and degree courses as well as faculty members and invited visitors.
Dr Ananda was invited to be an examiner for Ph.D thesis by the University
of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia in July 2016.
It was a special moment when he received felicitations from VC, Dean (AHS) and
Registrar upon being awarded prestigious C-IAYT recognition (IAYT Certified
Yoga Therapist) by International
Association of Yoga Therapists,
USA in September 2016. It is
notable that he is first Indian to
receive this honor.
Dr Meena gave a presentation
on “Mental Health and
Wellbeing in Silver Citizens
through Yoga” during 6th InSPA International Conference and 3rd International
Conference of the Department of Applied Psychology of Pondicherry University at
HRDC of the Academic Staff College at Pondicherry University on 14th Oct 2016.
Dr Ananda gave presentation on “Mental Health and Wellbeing through Yoga”
during 6th InSPA International Conference and 3rd International Conference of
Department of Applied Psychology of Pondicherry University as part of the plenary
session at Convention Centre of the Pondicherry University on 15th Oct 2016.
Dr Ananda was an invited expert for consultative meeting chaired by Secretary
AYUSH at the Ministry of AYUSH, Govt of India on 18.11.2016 to firm the views
for articulating during the Inter-Governmental Committee on Intangible Cultural
Heritage (IGC-ICH) held 28 November to 2 December 2016 at Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia to defend India’s interest for inscription of “Yoga” in Representative List of
the UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. On 1 December 2016, Yoga was
inscribed in the UNESCO's list of ICH.
Dr Ananda was an invited Resource Person for Capacity Building Workshop at
WHO Collaborating Centre for Traditional Medicine (Yoga), MDNIY, Delhi from
28th - 30th November, 2016.
Dr Ananda was a resource person for the CME on “Translational Medicine in the
Diagnosis and Management of Diabetes Mellitus”, organized by Dept of
Biochemistry, MGMCRI on 10th Nov 2016. He was also an invited panelist for the
panel discussion held in the afternoon session of the CME.
Dr Meena conducted workshop on “Yoga Awareness & Yoga Therapy” to the Deaf
& Dumb Students a special School for the CWSN Students under the Control of
the Social Welfare Department, Karaikal, Government of Puducherry organized by
Pearl- Academy of Yoga and Cultural Arts on 24th November 2016.
Dr Meena was part of the program recorded by the Doordarshan Puducherry crew
to celebrate “International Day of Persons with Disabilities” to create awareness
amongst the common people.
Dr Ananda was invited to be Chief Guest and present talk on “Yoga for Health
Professionals: Concepts and practices” during Annual Scientific Society Meet of
Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College, Madagadipet on 16 December 2016.
Dr Meena and Sri G Dayanidy were appointed by Indian Yoga Association as
examiners for conducting QCI exam (Approved by Ministry of AYUSH) at
SVYASA University, Bengaluru in October & November 2016.
Dr Ananda was awarded as InSPA PK Subbaraja Trust Best Performance Award
by Indian School Psychology Association during the International Conference
organized by InSPA and Dept. of Applied Psychology of Pondicherry University on
13 Oct 2016. He received from Chief Minister of Puducherry Sri V Narayanasamy
in the presence of VC of Pondicherry University and other dignitaries.
Dr Ananda was invited to be a Resource Person and give a presentation on
“Managing Stress Through Yoga: Concepts and Methods” during PONCON 2016,
the 7th Annual Pondicherry State Conference of the Indian Society of
Anesthesiologists at MGMCRI, Pondicherry on 7th January 2017.
Dr Meena was invited to conduct a lec-dem on “Importance of Yoga for the Senior
Citizens” for the members of JIPMER Pensioner’s Association on 5th February
2017 at Hotel Surguru ECR. More than 200 members participated enthusiastically
in the interactive session and enjoyed thoroughly.
Dr Ananda invited as resource person for the Bhopal Yoga fest 2017 held at TT
Stadium in Bhopal on 26th & 27th February 2017 and organized by Sant Hirdaram
medical college of naturopathy and yogic sciences sponsored by Ministry of
AYUSH Govt of India and coordinated by CCRYN.
Dr Ananda was an invited guest for the three days International Yoga Fest from
8th-10th March 2017 held at Talkatora Indoor Stadium, New Delhi. The
International Yoga Fest was organized as a Curtain Raiser for International Day of
Yoga (IDY) 2017. He also participated in the GB meeting of the Indian Yoga
Association where he is an EC member. All major yoga traditions were
represented in this historic meeting at MDNIY.
Dr Meena was the invited Guest Speaker for the CME organized by St Joseph
Cluny Hospital, Pondicherry on 12th March on “Stay Serene Sans (without) Stress”
at the Conference Hall of St Cluny Hospital. It was an interactive lec-dem that was
well attended by senior doctors of Pondicherry. CYTER Alumni and present
students gave an excellent demonstration which was appreciated by all.
Dr Ananda Balayogi and Smt Devasena present Yoga workshops in PHOENIX
2017 International Medical Students Conference at the A J Institute of Medical
Sciences and Research Center, Mangalore on 24th & 25th March 2017.
It was a special moment when Dr
Meena Ramanathan received the
gracious felicitations from our
respected Vice Chancellor Prof KR
Sethuraman, Dean (AHS) Prof N
Ananthakrishnan and Deputy
Director (CYTER) Dr Ananda
Balayogi Bhavanani upon being
awarded the prestigious C-
IAYT recognition (IAYT Certified Yoga Therapist) by the International Association
of Yoga Therapists, USA in February 2017.
CYTER team participated actively in the World health Day 2017 commemorations
organised by Dept of Community Medicine of MGMCRI of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth
University at the Rural Health Training Centre, Seliamedu.
Dr Ananda as Director of Research Committee of Indian Yoga Association was
invited to oversee the research project being done under Niyantrita Madhumeha
Bharata (NMB) Abhiyan at SVYASA University Bangalore on 29th &30th May 2017.
The project is being guided by Dr HR Nagendraji and Dr R Nagarathnaji and funded
by Ministry of AYUSH, Govt of India.
Dr Ananda was invited to be a Resource Person and deliver invited lecture on
“Research in Yoga” for the 25th Workshop on Research Methodology and Bio-
Statistics for AYUSH PG Students and Researchers organised by Department of
Siddha of the Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University on 3 July 2017.
Dr Ananda was invited to be a Resource Person and present talk on “Role of Yoga in
prevention and management of lifestyle disorders” during the Golden Jubilee
International Conference of Indian Pharmacological Society, Southern Region
at MGMC&RI, Pondicherry on 5 July 2017.
Dr Ananda was invited as Chairman for Board of Studies in “Anatomy & Physiology of
Human Body in the context of Yoga” at GS College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis,
Kaivalyadhama, Lonavla on 10 July 2017.
CYTER organised a Workshop on Yoga Chikitsa, “The Application of Yoga as a
Therapy” presented by Dr Kausthub Desikachar PhD, Chief Yoga Therapist,
Krishnamacharya Healing and Yoga Foundation, Chennai between 10 am and 1 pm
on 24 July 2017 at CYTER, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute
(MGMC&RI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, Pondicherry. He is also an adjunct faculty for
CYTER. More than 50 participated and enjoyed the interactive workshop.
Dr Meena was awarded the Best Yoga Teacher Award by Tamil Nadu Sports
Yogasana Association in appreciation for the services rendered in the field of Yoga
on the occasion of the 3rd International Day of Yoga on 21.6.2017 at Chennai.
Yogachemmal G Dayanidy received blessings from VC on successfully clearing UGC
NET exam for Assistant Professorship in Yoga on 9 August 2017.
Alumni of CYTER Dr Balaji and Dr Sanguida received gold medals for PGDYT for
2014 and 2016 respectively during the Doctoral Convocation held on 22nd
September 2017. Dr Ananda attended the program as the Director of CYTER.
Dr. Ananda was invited as Chief Guest for the SHISHOPANAYANA for the 29th batch
of fresh BNYS students joining the course at SDM College of Naturopathy & Yogic
Sciences, Ujire on 23 & 24 September 2017. He received a blessing from
Padmavibhushan Sri Virendra Heggadeji the Dharmadikari of Dharmasthala.
An interactive workshop on “Yoga and psychotherapy (Bridging East and West)” was
presented by Dr STEPHEN PARKER (Stomaji) Psy.D from the USA on the
auspicious day of Saraswati Puja, 29 September 2017 at CYTER.
YOGA FOR THE SRI BALAJI VIDYAPEETH FAMILY
Yoga sessions for faculty, staff and students of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth are going on
regularly since September 2015. Classes are offered at CYTER Yoga hall on all working
days between 6 to 7am and 4.30 to 5.30pm.
General sessions
for SBV family Male Female TG Total Grand total
2015-17 (till June) 2486 3456 - 5942 6723
2017 (July - Sept) 334 447 - 781
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA CELEBRATIONS 2015
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA CELEBRATIONS 2016
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA CELEBRATIONS 2017
SIGNIFICANT NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS:
Dr Ananda was invited to present workshops, seminars and talks at various venues in
Australia and New Zealand from 24th March to 14th April 2014. He presented highly
successful programmes organized by the Gitananda Yoga Association of Australia at
IYTA-Wellington, Lotus Yoga Centre-Paraparaumu in New Zealand and Anand Yoga
Academy at Adelaide. He also conducted intensive 3-day retreats at Tatum Park, NZ
and Integral Yoga Academy of Australasia at Adelaide. He presented a special 2-day
workshop at the International Yoga Teachers Association at Sydney, Australia and
visited the Sivanna Integrative Health Centre, Sydney to discuss further collaboration
in Yoga therapy.
Dr Krzysztof Bierski, Postdoctoral Fellow from the Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology,
Freie Universität Berlin, Germany participated in observational training at CYTER during
January and February 2016. He keenly participated in all of CYTER activities and
interviewed the patients and their caregivers as well as students and staff for a pilot
qualitative study on effects of Yoga therapy in a psychiatric ward setting. Another
qualitative research study has received IHEC approval and is in the planning stages.
Dr Ananda was invited to Canada and USA as consultant to conduct Yoga and Yoga
therapy program at Montreal between 20-24 April and then at Kripalu in USA from 24
April to 1st May 2016. In Montreal he presented an invited talk for 110 students and
faculty of the Vanier College on 22 April, and for 35 Yoga teachers and enthusiast at
YOGNAT studio on 23rd. He led a Yoga education and experiential retreat with 25
participants at the Ermitage Ste-Croix, on the Lake of Two Mountains, in Montreal. All
the events were well received and the work of CYTER and SBV was highlighted.
From 24th April to 1st May 2016, Dr Ananda was principal faculty for "Yoga Therapy in
Medical Settings" module conducted by Integrative Yoga Therapy at Kripalu, one of
the biggest Yoga and healing centres in the USA. The IYT program is run by Joseph
Le Page who is a pioneer in Yoga Therapy since the past 3 decades. CYTER is
honored to be associated with their work and have their appreciation for our work in
Pondicherry.
Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani was invited to present workshops, seminars and talks
at various venues in Australia from 8 to 23 October, 2017. He was Keynote presenter
at the Golden Jubilee 50th anniversary conference of the International Yoga
Teachers Association at Sydney and presented highly successful programmes
organized by the Gitananda Yoga Association of Australia and Integral Yoga
Academy of Australasia at Adelaide.
MOU signed between Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth & Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Lonavla,
Maharashtra on 28 January 2016. Sri Subodh Tiwari, CEO of Kaivalyadhama
represented and signed the MoU on behalf of Kaivalyadhama while Prof AR
Srinivasan, Registrar SBV signed on behalf of Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth in the presence
of Vice Chancellor and Dean Research and Allied Health Sciences.
MOU between SBV and Amity University on 31st March 2017. Dr W Selvamurthy,
President Amity Science, Technology and Innovation Foundation, and Chancellor,
Amity University, Chhattisgarh represented and signed the MoU on behalf of Amity
University while Prof KR Sethuraman, Vice Chancellor of SBV signed on behalf of Sri
Balaji Vidyapeeth. This is an innovative step as it represents the coming together of
the modern medical science with India’s Leading Research & Innovation Driven multi
campus Pvt. University, Amity University. The university additionally operates Amity
Global Business School, and a law School in its name which is affiliated with Guru
Gobind Singh Indraprastha University in New Delhi.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS:
CYTER has submitted copyright proposals for the following:
Choice based credit courses in Yoga Therapy
CYTER Yoga Therapy educational videos
INNOVATION AND BEST PRACTICES:
Integrating Yoga in Health Professions Education
“Divyanga” Yoga: The CYTER Model
“SILVER YOGA": The CYTER Model
Choice Based Credit Courses in Yoga Therapy
CYTER Yoga Therapy Educational Videos
COMPLETED RESEARCH PROJECTS (9):
1. Differential effects of uninostril and alternate nostril pranayamas on cardiovascular
parameters and reaction time. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani.
2. Comparative immediate effect of different yoga asanas on heart rate and blood
pressure in healthy young volunteers. Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani.
3. Immediate effect of suryanamaskar on reaction time and heart rate in female
volunteers. Meena Ramanathan.
4. Effect of 12-weeks of yoga training on cardiorespiratory, neurological and
psychological parameters in a geriatric population. Meena Ramanathan.
5. A study to assess the effectiveness of pranayama on level of depression among
the transgender. Collaborative project with KGNC. Thirusangu S.
6. A comparative study of the effect of yogic relaxing asanas and pranayamas on
HRV and perceived stress in healthy young volunteers. Vasanthan S.
7. The Efficacy of Bhramari Pranayama in Relieving Symptoms of Chronic
Rhinosinusitis - A Randomized Study. Abishek K
8. Effect of overnight sleep deprivation on Autonomic Function Test and Perceived
Stress in young healthy volunteers. Rahul.
9. A Comparative Study of the Effect of Music and combination of Music and Yoga
interventions on physiological and psychological parameters in patients posted for
angiogram. Samay Ajmera
ONGOING RESEARCH PROJECTS (12):
1. Comparative evaluation of effectiveness of tooth brushing training methods with or
without yoga as an adjuvant in children with autism spectrum disorder. Eswari R
2. The effect of adjunctive yoga therapy in depressive disorders: a randomised
study. Suriyakumar.
3. Intra ocular pressure variations in forward bending yoga postures. Srikanth K
4. Effect of 4 wks yoga training on cardio-respiratory, neurological, haemato-logical
& psycho-logical parameters in nursing students. Ramanathan M
5. Assessment of fasting lipid profile in chronic kidney disease and the effect of yoga
therapy. Dutta A
6. Effect of yoga therapy on autonomic function & biochemical parameters in
patients with newly diagnosed essential hypertension: A RCT. Uttiravelu P.
7. Effect of Yogic Intervention on Oxidative Stress Markers and Cellular Aging in
Elderly Volunteers. Selvakumar S
8. Effect of a comprehensive yoga therapy module on the pulmonary function and
quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A RCT.
Artchoudane S
9. A study of the effectiveness of adjuvant yoga therapy in diabetic lung: A RCT.
Balaji R.
10. Assessment of Effectiveness of Yoga Therapy as an Adjuvant Treatment Modality
for Refractive Post-Traumatic Headache: A pilot Randomised Control Trial.
Natesan Damodaran
11. Perception of yoga as a life skill in patients with mental health problems: a
qualitative study. Krzysztof Bierski
12. The effect of yoga therapy on oxidative stress and cardiometabolic risk factors in
type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized control trial. Mangala Gowri.
