Abstract Title: Effect of Sudarshan Kriya on male prisoners with non psychotic psychiatric disorders: a randomized control trial. Abstract Source: Asian J Psychiatr. 2014 Dec ;12:43-9. Epub 2014 Jun 20. PMID: 25440560 Abstract Author(s): Pankaj Sureka, Sandeep Govil, Debadutta Dash, Chandika Dash, Mukesh Kumar, Vikas Singhal Article Affiliation: Pankaj Sureka Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To investigate whether Sudarshan Kriya and related practices (SK&P) can lead to increased global assessment of functioning (GAF) and increased feeling of wellness in male prisoners with a non psychotic psychiatric disorder. METHODOLOGY: This is a six month parallel randomized controlled study with sample size of 230 male prisoners. Participants meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria were assigned to a study or control group by simple random allocation in which random allocation sequence was generated using a random number table. Each individual study participant was involved in a daily program of SK&P for six weeks. Each individual control participant was instructed to sit in an armchair with his eyes closed and gentle attention to their breath for duration of six weeks. To be included in this study, a participant must be a male prisoner diagnosed to be suffering from a psychiatric disorder (except psychosis and bipolar affective disorder [BPAD]) by ICD-10 (DCR) criteria with age between 18 and 65 years. RESULTS: Majority of subjects were unemployed married individuals, educated until undermatric level and not having occupational skills of more than an unskilled labor level. Practicing SK&P for six weeks led to improvement in mean±SD score of study participants in GAF, anxiety (ANX), depressed mood (DEP), positive well being (PWB), general health (GH), self control (SC), vitality (VT) and total positive general well being (PGWB). Change in mean±SD score of study participants when compared with control participants was statistically significant in terms of GAF, ANX, DEP, PWB, GH and PGWB. Increase in SC and VT scores was statistically insignificant when compared with control participants. CONCLUSION: Practicing SK&P helps in improving GAF, PWB, GH and total PGWB of an individual. SK&P also causes significant reduction in anxiety and depression levels. Effect of SK&P on SC and VT is insignificant. Article Published Date : Nov 30, 2014

Abstract Title: Breath-based meditation: A mechanism to restore the physiological and cognitive reserves for optimal human performance. Abstract Source: World J Clin Cases. 2016 Apr 16 ;4(4):99-102. PMID: 27099859 Abstract Author(s): Kirtigandha Salwe Carter, Robert Carter Article Affiliation: Kirtigandha Salwe Carter Abstract: Stress can be associated with many physiological changes resulting in significant decrements in human performance. Due to growing interests in alternative and complementary medicine by Westerners, many of the traditions and holistic yogic breathing practices today are being utilized as a measure for healthier lifestyles. These state-of-the-art practices can have a significant impact on common mental health conditions such as depression and generalized anxiety disorder. However, the potential of yogic breathing on optimizing human performance and overall well-being is not well known. Breathing techniques such as alternate nostril, Sudarshan Kriya and bhastrika utilizes rhythmic breathing to guide practitioners into a deep meditative state of relaxation and promote self-awareness. Furthermore, yogic breathing is physiologically stimulating and can be described as a natural"technological"solution to optimize human performance which can be categorized into: (1) cognitive function (i.e., mind, vigilance); and (2) physical performance (i.e., cardiorespiratory, metabolism, exercise, whole body). Based on previous studies, we postulate that daily practice of breathing meditation techniques play a significant role in preserving the compensatory mechanisms available to sustain physiological function. This preservation of physiological function may help to offset the time associated with reaching a threshold for clinical expression of chronic state (i.e., hypertension, depression, dementia) or acute state (i.e., massive hemorrhage, panic attic) of medical conditions. However, additional rigorous biomedical research is needed to evaluate the physiological mechanisms of various forms of meditation (i.e., breath-based, mantra, mindfulness) on human performance. These efforts will help to define how compensatory reserve mechanisms of cardiovascular and immune systems are modulated by breath-based meditation. While it has been suggested that breath-based meditation is easier for beginning practitioners when compared to other forms of meditation more research is needed to elucidate these observations. A breath-based meditation sequence such as Sudarshan Kriya has the potential to help develop an individual's self-awareness and support better integration of the brain (i.e., mind) with other organ systems (i.e., body) for enhanced human performance. Article Published Date : Apr 15, 2016

Abstract Title: Effect of Sudarshan Kriya (meditation) on gamma, alpha, and theta rhythm during working memory task. Abstract Source: Int J Yoga. 2016 Jan-Jun;9(1):72-6. PMID: 26865775 Abstract Author(s): Sushil Chandra, Greeshma Sharma, Alok Prakash Mittal, Devendra Jha Article Affiliation: Sushil Chandra Abstract: AIMS: The present study focuses on analyzing the effects of Sudarshan Kriya yoga (SKY) on brain signals during a working memory (WM) task. To envision the significant effects of SKY on WM capacity (WMC), we chose a control group for contriving a cogent comparison that could be corroborated using statistical tests. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 25 subjects were taken in the study, of which 10 were allotted to a control group and 15 to an experimental group. Electroencephalograph was taken during a WM task, which was an automated operation span test before and after SKY with 90 days intervals. No SKY was given to the control group. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: t-test and one-way ANOVA were applied. RESULTS: SKY promoted the efficient use of energy and power spectral density (PSD) for different brain rhythms in the desired locations as depicted by the gamma (F8 channel), alpha, and theta 2 (F7 and FC5) bands. It was found that gamma PSD reduced for both phases of memory in the experimental group. Alpha energy increased during the retrieval phase in the experimental group after SKY. Theta 1 rhythm was not affected by SKY, but theta 2 had shown left hemispheric activation. Theta rhythm was associated with memory consolidation. CONCLUSIONS: SKY had shown minimized energy losses while performing the task. SKY can improve WMC by changing the brain rhythms such that energy is utilized efficiently in performing the task. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Improvements in well-being and vagal tone following a yogic breathing-based life skills workshop in young adults: Two open-trial pilot studies. Abstract Source: Int J Yoga. 2016 Jan-Jun;9(1):20-6. PMID: 26865767 Abstract Author(s): Michael R Goldstein, Gregory F Lewis, Ronnie Newman, Janice M Brown, Georgiy Bobashev, Lisa Kilpatrick, Emma M Seppälä, Diana H Fishbein, Sreelatha Meleth Article Affiliation: Michael R Goldstein Abstract: BACKGROUND: While efficacy of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) has been demonstrated in a number of prior studies, little is known about the effects of SKY taught as part of the Your Enlightened Side (YES+) workshop designed for college students and other young adults. AIMS: This study aimed to assess the effects of YES+, a yogic breathing-based life skills workshop, on multiple measures of well-being and physiological stress response. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two nonrandomized open-trial pilot studies were conducted with a total of 74 young adults (age 25.4± 6.6 years; 55% female). Study 1 collected a variety of self-report questionnaires at baseline, postworkshop, and 1-month follow-up. Study 2 collected self-report questionnaires in addition to electrocardiography with a stationary cycling challenge at baseline and 1-month follow-up. RESULTS: Study 1: Improvements in self-reported depression (P's≤ 0.010), perceived stress (P's ≤ 0.002), life satisfaction (P's ≤ 0.002), social connectedness (P's ≤ 0.004), and gratitude (P's ≤ 0.090) were observed at postworkshop and 1-month after workshop relative to baseline. Study 2: Improvements in self-reported emotion regulation were observedat 1-month follow-up relative to baseline (P = 0.019). Positive and Negative Affect Schedule-Expanded Form positive affect increased (P = 0.021), while fatigue and sadness decreased (P's ≤ 0.005). During the stationary cycling challenge, rate to recovery of electrocardiography inter-beat intervalalso increased from baseline to 1-month follow-up (P = 0.077). CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that a life skills workshop integrating yogic breathing techniques may provide self-empowering tools for enhancing well-being in young adults. Future research is indicated to further explore these effects, particularly in regards to vagal tone and other aspects of stress physiology. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Effect of rhythmic breathing (Sudarshan Kriya and Pranayam) on immune functions and tobacco addiction. Abstract Source: Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2005 Nov ;1056:242-52. PMID: 16387692 Abstract Author(s): Vinod Kochupillai, Pratik Kumar, Devinder Singh, Dhiraj Aggarwal, Narendra Bhardwaj, Manisha Bhutani, Satya N Das Article Affiliation: Vinod Kochupillai Abstract: Stress, a psychophysiological process, acts through the immune-neuroendocrine axis and affects cellular processes of body and immune functions, leading to disease states including cancer. Stress is also linked to the habit of tobacco consumption and substance abuse, which in turn also leads to diseases. Sudarshan Kriya (SK) and Pranayam (P), rhythmic breathing processes, are known to reduce stress and improve immune functions. Cancer patients who had completed their standard therapy were studied. SK and P increased natural killer (NK) cells significantly (P<0.001) at 12 and 24 weeks of the practice compared to baseline. Increase in NK cells at 24 weeks was significant (P<0.05) compared to controls. There was no effect on T-cell subsets after SK and P either in the study group or among controls. SK and P helped to control the tobacco habit in 21% of individuals who were followed up to 6 months of practice. We conclude that the inexpensive and easy to learn and practice breathing processes (SK and P) in this study demonstrated an increase in NK cells and a reduction in tobacco consumption. When confirmed in large and randomized studies, this result could mean that the regular practice of SK and P might reduce the incidence and progression of cancer. Article Published Date : Oct 31, 2005

Abstract Title: Anti-anxiety efficacy of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga in general anxiety disorder: A multicomponent, yoga based, breath intervention program for patients suffering from generalized anxiety disorder with or without comorbidities. Abstract Source: J Affect Disord. 2015 Sep 15 ;184:310-7. Epub 2015 Jun 24. PMID: 26142611 Abstract Author(s): S Doria, A de Vuono, R Sanlorenzo, F Irtelli, C Mencacci Article Affiliation: S Doria Abstract: BACKGROUND: Surdashan Kriya Yoga (SKY) is a procedure that in various studies, has shown evidences of efficacy in alleviating Depression and Anxiety disorders, but in Europe and USA it has not been studied yet on a Caucasian population as an adjunct therapy for psychiatric Disorders. METHODS: The study involved a sample of consenting women and men (n = 69) who received SKY therapy for a six-month time period. They were assessed at recruitment, after two weeks, after three months and after six months using Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HRSA), Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD), Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (ZSAS), Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZSDS) and Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90). RESULTS: All the analyses have shown that SKY therapy significantly reduces the scores of Anxiety and Depression. This is plain, especially after the initial SKY treatment, which is followed by a long plateau phase that seems to verge on no Anxiety/Depression scores. It was found that SKY effects lead to a significant convergence between the self-assessment (Zung Self-Rating Scale) and hetero-assessment (Hamilton Rating Scale). LIMITATIONS: The study should be replicated on a larger clinical sample in a controlled trial to learn more about the effectiveness of SKY Protocol. CONCLUSIONS: Participation in SKY adjunct therapy ten days intense workshop and follow-ups, coupled with daily individual and independent practice of a simplified protocol of breathing techniques (30 min), can lead to significant reduction in levels of Anxiety and Depression. Article Published Date : Sep 14, 2015

Abstract Title: Effectiveness of yogic breathing intervention on quality of life of opioid dependent users. Abstract Source: Int J Yoga. 2015 Jul-Dec;8(2):144-7. PMID: 26170596 Abstract Author(s): Anju Dhawan, Anita Chopra, Raka Jain, Deepak Yadav, Vedamurthachar Article Affiliation: Anju Dhawan Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The quality of life (QOL) of substance users is known to be impaired. Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY), a yogic breathing program has potential to improve QOL and needs evaluation in an Indian setting. AIMS: Study aimed to assess changes in QOL in treatment seeking male opioid dependent users following practice of SKY program. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Users were randomized into study (n = 55) and control group (n = 29). Study group besides standard treatment (long term pharmacotherapy with buprenorphine in flexible dosing schedule) underwent a 3 days, 12 h SKY program while control group received standard treatment alone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: World Health Organization QOL-brief scale was used to measure QOL and urine tested to assess recent drug use. Assessments were made at baseline and at 3 and 6 months. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Data were analyzed using generalized estimation equation to assess within group change with time and the overall difference between groups for changes at assessment points. RESULTS: Overtime within study group, all four QOL domain scores were significantly higher at 6 months. Between group comparison showed significant increase in physical (P<0.05); psychological (P<0.001) and environment domains (P<0.001) for study group while control group showed significant changes in social relationship domain only. Urine screening results were negative for study group indicating no drug use at 6 months. CONCLUSION: SKY as a complementary therapy was found beneficial in improving QOL for group practicing it and is recommended for use as low cost and low-risk adjunct in substance treatment settings in India. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2015

Abstract Title: Sudarshan Kriya yoga improves quality of life in healthy people living with HIV (PLHIV): results from an open label randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: Indian J Med Res. 2015 Jan ;141(1):90-9. PMID: 25857500 Abstract Author(s): N Mawar, T Katendra, R Bagul, S Bembalkar, A Vedamurthachar, S Tripathy, K Srinivas, K Mandar, N Kumar, N Gupte, R S Paranjape Article Affiliation: N Mawar Abstract: BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: Improving quality of life (QOL) of healthy people living with HIV (PLHIV) is critical needing home-based, long-term strategy. Sudarshan Kriya yoga (SKY) intervention is acknowledged for its positive impact on health. It is hypothesised that SKY would improve PLHIV's QOL, justifying an evaluation. METHODS: In this open label randomized controlled pilot trial, 61 adult PLHIV with CD4 count more than 400 cells/µl and Karnofsky scale score above 70 were enrolled. Those with cardiac disease, jaundice, tuberculosis, or on antiretroviral therapy/yoga intervention were excluded. All were given standard care, randomized to SKY intervention (31: I-SKY) and only standard of care in control (30: O-SOC) arms. TheI-SKY participants were trained for six days to prepare for daily practice of SKY at home for 30 min. A validated 31-item WHOQOL-HIVBREF questionnaire was used to document effect in both arms from baseline to three visits at 4 wk interval. RESULTS: Baseline QOL scores, hypertension and CD4 count were similar in both arms. An overall 6 per cent improvement of QOL scores was observed in I-SKY group as compared to O-SOC group, after controlling for baseline variables like age, gender, education and occupation ( p =0.016); 12 per cent for physical ( p =0.004), 11 per cent psychological (p =0.023) and 9 per cent level of independence (p =0.001) domains. Improvement in I-SKY observed at post-training and in the SKY adherence group showed increase in these two domains. CONCLUSIONS: A significant improvement in QOL scores was observed for the three health related QOL domains in SKY intervention arm. This low cost strategy improved physical and psychological state of PLHIV calling for upscaling with effective monitoring for sustainability of quality of life. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2014

Abstract Title: Breathing-based meditation decreases posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in U.S. military veterans: a randomized controlled longitudinal study. Abstract Source: J Trauma Stress. 2014 Aug ;27(4):397-405. PMID: 25158633 Abstract Author(s): Emma M Seppälä, Jack B Nitschke, Dana L Tudorascu, Andrea Hayes, Michael R Goldstein, Dong T H Nguyen, David Perlman, Richard J Davidson Article Affiliation: Emma M Seppälä Abstract: Given the limited success of conventional treatments for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), investigations of alternative approaches are warranted. We examined the effects of a breathing-based meditation intervention, Sudarshan Kriya yoga, on PTSD outcome variables in U.S. male veterans of the Iraq or Afghanistan war. We randomly assigned 21 veterans to an active (n = 11) or waitlist control (n = 10) group. Laboratory measures of eye-blink startle and respiration rate were obtained before and after the intervention, as were self-report symptom measures; the latter were also obtained 1 month and 1 year later. The active group showed reductions in PTSD scores, d = 1.16, 95% CI [0.20, 2.04], anxiety symptoms, and respiration rate, but the control group did not. Reductions in startle correlated with reductions in hyperarousal symptoms immediately postintervention (r = .93, p<.001) and at 1-year follow-up (r = .77, p = .025). This longitudinal intervention study suggests there may be clinical utility for Sudarshan Kriya yoga for PTSD. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2014

Abstract Title: Effect of controlled breathing exercises on the psychological status and the cardiac autonomic tone: Sudarshan Kriya and Prana-Yoga. Abstract Source: Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 2014 Jul-Sep;58(3):211-21. PMID: 25906603 Abstract Author(s): Chhaya Kharya, Varun Gupta, Kishore Kumar Deepak, Rajesh Sagar, Ashish Upadhyav, Vinod Kochupillai, Sneh Anand Article Affiliation: Chhaya Kharya Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to observe the effect of controlled breathing exercises including Sudarshan Kriya (SK) and Prana-Yoga (PY) on the psycho-physiological status. METHODS: The study group included 60 healthy volunteers (M:30, F:30) in the age group of 18 to 30 years (21.3± 3.2 yrs), randomly divided in to three groups of 20 subjects each--(1) The SK group (2) the PY group and the (3) Control group. The psycho-physiological data was collected at the following four time interventions: Baseline, 6th, 60th and the 150th day. Psychological assessment was done using questionnaires and for the autonomic tone quantification Heart Rate Variability (HRV) analysis was done using the standard lead II electrocardiogram recordings. In a post-hoc analysis each group was further sub divided in to the following two patterns, based on the baseline values of normalized Low Frequency (LF) power (cutoff 64 ms2): (i) Pattern A-Subjects with low level LF power, and (ii) Pattern B- subjects with high level LF power. RESULTS: The stress management skills have shown significant increase in SK group but not in PY and Control group. Subjects of SK, PY, and control group showed significant increase in LF value and LF:HF ratio for pattern A and significant decrease for pattern B. Plotted LF value for pattern A&B in SK and PY practitioners showed convergence, coming to a mean value over the period of 150 days. The LF:HF ratio curve plotted over time for pattern A&B showed convergence in SK group only. No such convergence in LF value&LF/HF ratio for pattern A&B was seen in control group. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, Sudarshan Kriya positively modifies stress coping behavior and initiates appropriate balance in cardiac autonomic tone. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2014

Abstract Title: Completion report: Effect of Comprehensive Yogic Breathing program on type 2 diabetes: A randomized control trial. Abstract Source: Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2014 Jul ;18(4):582-4. PMID: 25143922 Abstract Author(s): V P Jyotsna, Anju Dhawan, V Sreenivas, K K Deepak, Rajiv Singla Article Affiliation: V P Jyotsna Abstract: BACKGROUND: Yoga has been shown to be beneficial in diabetes in many studies, though randomized control trials are few. The aim of this randomized control trial was to see the effect of Sudarshan Kriya and related practices (comprehensive yogic breathing program) on quality of life, glycemic control, and cardiac autonomic functions in diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for sudden cardiac death. Cardiac autonomic neuropathy has been implicated in the causation of sudden cardiac death. Therefore, a maneuver to prevent progression of cardiac autonomic neuropathy holds significance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 120 patients of diabetes on oral medication and diet and exercise advice were randomized into two groups: (1) Continued to receive standard treatment for diabetes. (2) Patients administered comprehensive yogic breathing program and monitored to regularly practice yoga in addition to standard treatment of diabetes. At 6 months, quality of life and postprandial plasma glucose significantly improved in the group practicing yoga compared to baseline, but there was no significant improvement in the fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin. RESULTS: On per protocol analysis, sympathetic cardiac autonomic functions significantly improved from baseline in the group practicing comprehensive yogic breathing. CONCLUSION: This randomized control trial points towards the beneficial effect of yogic breathing program in preventing progression of cardiac neuropathy. This has important implications as cardiac autonomic neuropathy has been considered as one of the factors for sudden cardiac deaths. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2014

Abstract Title: Randomized Controlled Trial in Advance Stage Breast Cancer Patients for the Effectiveness on Stress Marker and Pain through Sudarshan Kriya and Pranayam. Abstract Source: Indian J Palliat Care. 2013 Sep ;19(3):180-5. PMID: 24347909 Abstract Author(s): Neeta Kumar, Sushma Bhatnagar, T Velpandian, Santosh Patnaik, Geetha Menon, Manju Mehta, Komal Kashyap, Vishwajeet Singh, Surajpal Article Affiliation: Neeta Kumar Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to examine the effect of a cognitive, behavioral stress management module of Sudarshan Kriya (SK) and P on levels of serum cortisol and pain among the women suffering from advanced stage breast cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants (n = 147) were screened and randomized to receive standard care (n = 69) versus standard along with SK and Pranayam (P) intervention (n = 78) imparted in one 18 hrs workshop spread during 3 days. Participants were expected to practice it at home 20 min daily as adjuvant to standard pharmacological treatment for pain. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in blood cortisol levels after 3 months of practice of SK and P. Mean blood levels in the intervention arm were 341.2 ng/ml against 549.2 ng/ml in the control arm (P≤ 0.002). Pain perception in comparison to control arm reduced by 3 points in SK and P arm on 0-10 verbal scale of pain. CONCLUSION: SK and P is an effective intervention in reducing stress and pain among advance stage patients of breast cancer. Article Published Date : Aug 31, 2013

Abstract Title: Cardiac autonomic function in patients with diabetes improves with practice of comprehensive yogic breathing program. Abstract Source: Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2013 May ;17(3):480-5. PMID: 23869306 Abstract Author(s): Viveka P Jyotsna, Smita Ambekar, Rajiv Singla, Ansumali Joshi, Anju Dhawan, Neeta Kumar, K K Deepak, V Sreenivas Article Affiliation: Viveka P Jyotsna Abstract: BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to observe the effect comprehensive yogic breathing (Sudarshan Kriya Yoga [SKY] and Pranayam) had on cardiac autonomic functions in patients with diabetes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a prospective randomized controlled intervention trial. Cardiac autonomic functions were assessed in 64 diabetics. Patients were randomized into two groups, one group receiving standard therapy for diabetes and the other group receiving standard therapy for diabetes and comprehensive yogic breathing program. Standard therapy included dietary advice, brisk walking for 45 min daily, and administration of oral antidiabetic drugs. Comprehensive yogic breathing program was introduced to the participants through a course of 12 h spread over 3 days. It was an interactive session in which SKY, a rhythmic cyclical breathing, preceded by Pranayam is taught under the guidance of a certified teacher. Cardiac autonomic function tests were done before and after 6 months of intervention. RESULTS: In the intervention group, after practicing the breathing techniques for 6 months, the improvement in sympathetic functions was statistically significant (P 0.04). The change in sympathetic functions in the standard therapy group was not significant (P 0.75). Parasympathetic functions did not show any significant change in either group. When both parasympathetic and sympathetic cardiac autonomic functions were considered, there was a trend toward improvement in patients following comprehensive yogic breathing program (P 0.06). In the standard therapy group, no change in cardiac autonomic functions was noted (P 0.99). CONCLUSION: Cardiac autonomic functions improved in patients with diabetes on standard treatment who followed the comprehensive yogic breathing program compared to patients who were on standard therapy alone. Article Published Date : Apr 30, 2013

Abstract Title: Rapid gene expression changes in peripheral blood lymphocytes upon practice of a comprehensive yoga program. Abstract Source: PLoS One. 2013 ;8(4):e61910. Epub 2013 Apr 17. PMID: 23613970 Abstract Author(s): Su Qu, Solveig Mjelstad Olafsrud, Leonardo A Meza-Zepeda, Fahri Saatcioglu Article Affiliation: Su Qu Abstract: One of the most common integrative medicine (IM) modalities is yoga and related practices. Previous work has shown that yoga may improve wellness in healthy people and have benefits for patients. However, the mechanisms of how yoga may positively affect the mind-body system are largely unknown. Here we have assessed possible rapid changes in global gene expression profiles in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in healthy people that practiced either a comprehensive yoga program or a control regimen. The experimental sessions included gentle yoga postures, breathing exercises, and meditation (Sudarshan Kriya and Related Practices--SK&P) compared with a control regimen of a nature walk and listening to relaxing music. We show that the SK&P program has a rapid and significantly greater effect on gene expression in PBMCs compared with the control regimen. These data suggest that yoga and related practices result in rapid gene expression alterations which may be the basis for their longer term cell biological and higher level health effects. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2012

Abstract Title: Sudarshan kriya yoga: Breathing for health. Abstract Source: Int J Yoga. 2013 Jan ;6(1):4-10. PMID: 23440614 Abstract Author(s): Sameer A Zope, Rakesh A Zope Article Affiliation: Sameer A Zope Abstract: Breathing techniques are regularly recommended for relaxation, stress management, control of psychophysiological states, and to improve organ function. Yogic breathing, defined as a manipulation of breath movement, has been shown to positively affect immune function, autonomic nervous system imbalances, and psychological or stress-related disorders. The aim of this study was to assess and provide a comprehensive review of the physiological mechanisms, the mind-body connection, and the benefits of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) in a wide range of clinical conditions. Various online databases searched were Medline, Psychinfo, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. All the results were carefully screened and articles on SKY were selected. The references from these articles were checked to find any other potentially relevant articles. SKY, a unique yogic breathing practice, involves several types of cyclical breathing patterns, ranging from slow and calming to rapid and stimulating. There is mounting evidence to suggest that SKY can be a beneficial, low-risk, low-cost adjunct to the treatment of stress, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, stress-related medical illnesses, substance abuse, and rehabilitation of criminal offenders. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2012

Abstract Title: Comprehensive yogic breathing program improves quality of life in patients with diabetes. Abstract Source: Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2012 May ;16(3):423-8. PMID: 22629512 Abstract Author(s): Viveka P Jyotsna, Ansumali Joshi, Smita Ambekar, Neeta Kumar, Anju Dhawan, Vishnubhatla Sreenivas Article Affiliation: Viveka P Jyotsna Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of a comprehensive yogic breathing program on glycemic control and quality of life (QOL) in patients with diabetes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a prospective randomized controlled intervention trial. Patients having HbA1c between 6 and 9% for at least 3 months with lifestyle modification and oral antidiabetic medication were included. They were followed-up and randomized at 6 months into two groups: one group receiving standard treatment of diabetes and the other group receiving standard treatment of diabetes and taught and told to regularly practice the comprehensive yogic breathing program (Sudarshan Kriya Yoga and Pranayam). Change in fasting and post-prandial blood sugars, glycated hemoglobin and QOL as assessed by the World Health Organization QOL WHOQOL BREF questionnaire were assessed. RESULTS: There was a trend toward improvement in glycemic control in the group practicing the comprehensive yogic breathing program compared with the group following standard treatment alone, although this was not significant. There was significant improvement in physical, psychological and social domains and total QOL post-intervention in the group practicing the comprehensive yogic breathing program as compared with the group following standard treatment alone. CONCLUSION: There was significant improvement in the QOL and a non-significant trend toward improvement in glycemic control in the group practicing the comprehensive yogic breathing program compared with the group that was following standard treatment alone. Article Published Date : Apr 30, 2012

Abstract Title: Role of sudarshan kriya and pranayam on lipid profile and blood cell parameters during exam stress: A randomized controlled trial. Abstract Source: Int J Yoga. 2012 Jan ;5(1):21-7. PMID: 22346062 Abstract Author(s): Swapna Subramanian, Tamilselvi Elango, Hemamalini Malligarjunan, Vinod Kochupillai, Haripriya Dayalan Article Affiliation: Swapna Subramanian Abstract: BACKGROUND: Yoga is a science practiced in India over thousands of years. It produces constituent physiological changes and has sound scientific basis. AIM: Since exam stress modifies lipid profile and hematological parameters, we conducted an investigation on the effect of sudarshan kriya (SK and P) program on these parameters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Blood samples of 43 engineering students were collected at four intervals namely baseline (BL), exam stress (ES), three and six weeks practice of SK and P during exam stress. Lipid profile and hematological parameters were measured at all four intervals. RESULTS: ES elevated total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGL) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) levels. Hematological parameters affected by ES included neutrophil, lymphocytes, platelet count, packed cell volume (PCV) and mean cell volume (MCV). Three and six weeks practice of SK and P reduced the elevated lipid profile, hematological parameters and improved lymphocyte levels. CONCLUSION: Our study indicates that SK and P practice has the potential to overcome ES by improving lipid profile and hematological parameters. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2011

Abstract Title: A multicomponent yoga-based, breath intervention program as an adjunctive treatment in patients suffering from generalized anxiety disorder with or without comorbidities. Abstract Source: Int J Yoga. 2012 Jan ;5(1):57-65. PMID: 22346068 Abstract Author(s): Martin A Katzman, Monica Vermani, Patricia L Gerbarg, Richard P Brown, Christina Iorio, Michele Davis, Catherine Cameron, Dina Tsirgielis Article Affiliation: Martin A Katzman Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) course in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) outpatients, who after eight weeks of an appropriate dose of traditional therapy had not yet achieved remission. SUBJECTS: The adult participants (18-65 years) were outpatients with a primary diagnosis of GAD with or without comorbidities on the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). Participants had a minimum of eight weeks standard treatment with an appropriate dose of a standard prescription anxiolytic, a clinician global impression-severity (CGI-S) score of 5-7, a Hamilton anxiety scale (HAM-A) total score≥20 including a score of>2 on the anxious mood and tension items. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-one patients were enrolled in an open-label trial of the SKY course as an adjunct to standard treatment of GAD at the START Clinic for Mood and Anxiety Disorders, a tertiary care mood and anxiety disorder clinic in Toronto. The SKY course was administered over five days (22 h total). Subjects were encouraged to practice the yoga breathing techniques at home for 20 min per day after the course and were offered group practice sessions for 2 h once a week led by certified yoga instructors. The primary outcome measure was the mean change from pre-treatment on the HAM-A scale. Psychological measures were obtained at baseline and four weeks after completing the intervention. RESULTS: Thirty-one patients completed the program (mean age 42.6± 13.3 years). Among completers, significant reductions occurred in the pre- and post-intervention mean HAM-A total score (t=4.59; P<0.01) and psychic subscale (t=5.00; P≤0.01). The response rate was 73% and the remission rate 41% as measured on the HAM-A. CONCLUSION: The results of this small pilot trial suggest that the SKY course represents a potentially valuable adjunct to standard pharmacotherapy in patients with GAD or treatment-resistant GAD, and warrants further investigation. In particular, changes in worry and body symptoms showed significant improvements that may further our understanding of the mechanism of change in the tolerance of anxiety and worry. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2011

Abstract Title: The effects of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga on some physiological and biochemical parameters in mild hypertensive patients. Abstract Source: Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 2011 Apr-Jun;55(2):183-7. PMID: 22319901 Abstract Author(s): Vaishali V Agte, Madhavi U Jahagirdar, Kirtan V Tarwadi Article Affiliation: Vaishali V Agte Abstract: An open label intervention study was undertaken on 26 mild hypertensives and 26 apparently healthy adults (30-60 y), for the effect of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga practice for two months as complementary therapy. In the hypertensives, there was a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure (P<0.01), serum urea (P<0.01) and plasma MDA (malondialdehyde adducts) as oxidative stress marker (P<0.05). Other parameters; viz.; plasma levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, did not change significantly (P>0.1). The pattern of change in most of the study parameters was such that values above normal range were lowered but values within normal range were unaltered. The action of Yoga on diastolic blood pressure, malondialdehyde adducts and kidney function in hypertensives was of counteractive nature and felt to be distinctly different than the effect of drugs. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2011

Abstract Title: Roles of meditation on alleviation of oxidative stress and improvement of antioxidant system. Abstract Source: J Med Assoc Thai. 2010 Nov ;93 Suppl 6:S242-54. PMID: 21280542 Abstract Author(s): Chitrawina Mahagita Article Affiliation: Chitrawina Mahagita Abstract: According to MEDLINE/Pubmed search to December 2009, the modulation effects of meditation on oxidative stress have been increasingly investigated for acute, short and long-term effects. Both invasive and noninvasive measurements have been utilized. Long-term transcendental and Zen meditators have been showed to diminish oxidative stress seen by a reduction of lipid peroxidation and biophoton emission. Glutathione level and activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase) have been facilitated in Yoga and Sudarshan Kriya practitioners. One year of Tai Chi training has been reported to promote superoxide dismutase activity and lessen lipid peroxidation. Performing diaphragmatic breathing after exhaustive exercise has attenuated oxidative stress faster than control. These data suggest possible roles of meditation and meditation-based techniques on the decrease of oxidative stress which may assist to prevent and/or alleviate deterioration of related diseases. However, further research needs to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms which remain challenge to accomplish. Article Published Date : Oct 31, 2010

Abstract Title: Theta activity and meditative states: spectral changes during concentrative meditation. Abstract Source: Cogn Process. 2010 Feb ;11(1):31-8. Epub 2009 Jul 22. PMID: 19626355 Abstract Author(s): Shruti Baijal, Narayanan Srinivasan Article Affiliation: Shruti Baijal Abstract: Brain oscillatory activity is associated with different cognitive processes and plays a critical role in meditation. In this study, we investigated the temporal dynamics of oscillatory changes during Sahaj Samadhi meditation (a concentrative form of meditation that is part of Sudarshan Kriya yoga). EEG was recorded during Sudarshan Kriya yoga meditation for meditators and relaxation for controls. Spectral and coherence analysis was performed for the whole duration as well as specific blocks extracted from the initial, middle, and end portions of Sahaj Samadhi meditation or relaxation. The generation of distinct meditative states of consciousness was marked by distinct changes in spectral powers especially enhanced theta band activity during deep meditation in the frontal areas. Meditators also exhibited increased theta coherence compared to controls. The emergence of the slow frequency waves in the attention-related frontal regions provides strong support to the existing claims of frontal theta in producing meditative states along with trait effects in attentional processing. Interestingly, increased frontal theta activity was accompanied reduced activity (deactivation) in parietal-occipital areas signifying reduction in processing associated with self, space and, time. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2010

Abstract Title: Gene expression profiling in practitioners of Sudarshan Kriya. Abstract Source: J Psychosom Res. 2008 Feb ;64(2):213-8. PMID: 18222135 Abstract Author(s): Himani Sharma, Palika Datta, Archna Singh, Sudip Sen, Narendra Kumar Bhardwaj, Vinod Kochupillai, Neeta Singh Article Affiliation: Himani Sharma Abstract: BACKGROUND: The rapid pace of life, eating habits, and environmental pollution have increased stress levels and its related disorders. The complex molecular response to stress is mediated by stress genes and a variety of regulatory pathways. Oxidative stress is internal damage caused by reactive oxygen species. Increasing evidence suggests that chronic psychosocial stress may increase oxidative stress, which in turn may contribute to aging, and etiology of coronary diseases, cancer, arthritis, etc. Psychophysiological concomitants of meditation have been extensively researched, but there are very little data available on biochemical activity leading to relieving stress by causing a relaxation response by Sudarshan Kriya (SK). SK is a breathing technique that involves breathing in three different rhythms. It is preceded by Ujjayi Pranayam (long and deep breaths with constriction at the base of throat) and Bhastrika (fast and forceful breaths through nose along with arm movements). METHODS: Forty-two SK practitioners and 42 normal healthy controls were recruited for our study. The practitioners had practiced SK for at least 1 year. Selected normal healthy controls did not perform any conventional physical exercise or any formal stress management technique. Whole blood was used for glutathione peroxidase estimation and red blood cell lysate was used for superoxide dismutase activity assay and for glutathione estimation. White blood cells were isolated from fresh blood and assayed for gene expression using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. The parameters studied are antioxidant enzymes, genes involved in oxidative stress, DNA damage, cell cycle control, aging, and apoptosis. RESULTS: A better antioxidant status both at the enzyme activity and RNA level was seen in SK practitioners. This was accompanied by better stress regulation and better immune status due to prolonged life span of lymphocytes by up-regulation of antiapoptotic genes and prosurvival genes in these subjects. CONCLUSIONS: Our pilot study provides the first evidence suggesting that SK practice may exert effects on immunity, aging, cell death, and stress regulation through transcriptional regulation. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2008

Abstract Title: Concentrative meditation enhances preattentive processing: a mismatch negativity study. Abstract Source: Neuroreport. 2007 Oct 29 ;18(16):1709-12. PMID: 17921873 Abstract Author(s): Narayanan Srinivasan, Shruti Baijal Article Affiliation: Narayanan Srinivasan Abstract: The mismatch negativity (MMN) paradigm that is an indicator of preattentive processing was used to study the effects of concentrative meditation. Sudarshan Kriya Yoga meditation is a yogic exercise practiced in an ordered sequence beginning with breathing exercises, and ending with concentrative (Sahaj Samadhi) meditation. Auditory MMN waveforms were recorded at the beginning and after each of these practices for meditators, and equivalently after relaxation sessions for the nonmeditators. Overall meditators were found to have larger MMN amplitudes than nonmeditators. The meditators also exhibited significantly increased MMN amplitudes immediately after meditation suggesting transient state changes owing to meditation. The results indicate that concentrative meditation practice enhances preattentive perceptual processes, enabling better change detection in auditory sensory memory. Article Published Date : Oct 28, 2007

Abstract Title: Wellness through a comprehensive yogic breathing program - a controlled pilot trial. Abstract Source: BMC Complement Altern Med. 2007 ;7:43. Epub 2007 Dec 19. PMID: 18093307 Abstract Author(s): Anette Kjellgren, Sven A Bood, Kajsa Axelsson, Torsten Norlander, Fahri Saatcioglu Article Affiliation: Anette Kjellgren Abstract: BACKGROUND: Increasing rates of psychosocial disturbances give rise to increased risks and vulnerability for a wide variety of stress-related chronic pain and other illnesses. Relaxation exercises aim at reducing stress and thereby help prevent these unwanted outcomes. One of the widely used relaxation practices is yoga and yogic breathing exercises. One specific form of these exercises is Sudarshan Kriya and related practices (SK&P) which are understood to have favourable effects on the mind-body system. The goal of this pilot study was to design a protocol that can investigate whether SK&P can lead to increased feeling of wellness in healthy volunteers. METHODS: Participants were recruited in a small university city in Sweden and were instructed in a 6-day intensive program of SK&P which they practiced daily for six weeks. The control group was instructed to relax in an armchair each day during the same period. Subjects included a total of 103 adults, 55 in the intervention (SK&P) group and 48 in the control group. Various instruments were administered before and after the intervention. Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale measured the degree of anxiety and depression, Life Orientation Test measured dispositional optimism, Stress and Energy Test measured individual's energy and stress experiences. Experienced Deviation from Normal State measured the experience of altered state of consciousness. RESULTS: There were no safety issues. Compliance was high (only 1 dropout in the SK&P group, and 5 in the control group). Outcome measures appeared to be appropriate for assessing the differences between the groups. Subjective reports generally correlated with the findings from the instruments. The data suggest that participants in the SK&P group, but not the control group, lowered their degree of anxiety, depression and stress, and also increased their degree of optimism (ANOVA; p<0.001). The participants in the yoga group experienced the practices as a positive event that induced beneficial effects. CONCLUSION: These data indicate that the experimental protocol that is developed here is safe, compliance level is good, and a full scale trial is feasible. The data obtained suggest that adult participants may improve their wellness by learning and applying a program based on yoga and yogic breathing exercises; this can be conclusively assessed in a large-scale trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN012607000175471. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2006

Abstract Title: Sudarshan Kriya Yogic breathing in the treatment of stress, anxiety, and depression. Part II--clinical applications and guidelines. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2005 Aug ;11(4):711-7. PMID: 16131297 Abstract Author(s): Richard P Brown, Patricia L Gerbarg Article Affiliation: Richard P Brown Abstract: Yogic breathing is a unique method for balancing the autonomic nervous system and influencing psychologic and stress-related disorders. Part I of this series presented a neurophysiologic theory of the effects of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY). Part II will review clinical studies, our own clinical observations, and guidelines for the safe and effective use of yoga breath techniques in a wide range of clinical conditions. Although more clinical studies are needed to document the benefits of programs that combine pranayama (yogic breathing) asanas (yoga postures), and meditation, there is sufficient evidence to consider Sudarshan Kriya Yoga to be a beneficial, low-risk, low-cost adjunct to the treatment of stress, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, stress-related medical illnesses, substance abuse, and rehabilitation of criminal offenders. SKY has been used as a public health intervention to alleviate PTSD in survivors of mass disasters. Yoga techniques enhance well-being, mood, attention, mental focus, and stress tolerance. Proper training by a skilled teacher and a 30-minute practice every day will maximize the benefits. Health care providers play a crucial role in encouraging patients to maintain their yoga practices. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2005

Abstract Title: Sudarshan Kriya yogic breathing in the treatment of stress, anxiety, and depression: part I-neurophysiologic model. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2005 Feb ;11(1):189-201. PMID: 15750381 Abstract Author(s): Richard P Brown, Patricia L Gerbarg Article Affiliation: Richard P Brown Abstract: Mind-body interventions are beneficial in stress-related mental and physical disorders. Current research is finding associations between emotional disorders and vagal tone as indicated by heart rate variability. A neurophysiologic model of yogic breathing proposes to integrate research on yoga with polyvagal theory, vagal stimulation, hyperventilation, and clinical observations. Yogic breathing is a unique method for balancing the autonomic nervous system and influencing psychologic and stress-related disorders. Many studies demonstrate effects of yogic breathing on brain function and physiologic parameters, but the mechanisms have not been clarified. Sudarshan Kriya yoga (SKY), a sequence of specific breathing techniques (ujjayi, bhastrika, and Sudarshan Kriya) can alleviate anxiety, depression, everyday stress, post-traumatic stress, and stress-related medical illnesses. Mechanisms contributing to a state of calm alertness include increased parasympathetic drive, calming of stress response systems, neuroendocrine release of hormones, and thalamic generators. This model has heuristic value, research implications, and clinical applications. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2005

Abstract Title: Sudarshan Kriya practitioners exhibit better antioxidant status and lower blood lactate levels. Abstract Source: Biol Psychol. 2003 Jul ;63(3):281-91. PMID: 12853172 Abstract Author(s): Himani Sharma, Sudip Sen, Archna Singh, Narendra Kumar Bhardwaj, Vinod Kochupillai, Neeta Singh Article Affiliation: Himani Sharma Abstract: Oxidative stress may contribute to the pathophysiology of many chronic diseases. Since psychosocial stress increases oxidative stress, we conducted an exploratory study to investigate the effects of stress reduction with the Sudarshan Kriya (SK) program, on superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione and blood lactate levels in practitioners and non-practitioners of SK. Blood samples of ten practitioners of SK and 14 non-practitioners of any formal stress management technique were analyzed for SOD, catalase, glutathione and lactate levels. Differences between groups and subgroups were analyzed by t-test and correlations between variables compared using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Significantly lower levels of blood lactate (P=3.118e-10) and higher levels of SOD (P=0.0001415), glutathione (P=2.038e-06) and catalase (P=0.001565) were found in practitioners as compared to non-practitioners of SK, thereby suggesting that lower levels of blood lactate and better antioxidant status in practitioners are associated with regular practice of SK technique. However, this study needs to be conducted on a larger sample size to confirm this effect. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2003