Successful Completion of Workshop on Health & Wellness through YOGA at VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital Focused on Integrating Yoga into Medical Practice

Mahesh Dhoundiyal - Delhi

A transformative workshop on the integration of yoga into medical practice was successfully conducted at Safdarjung Hospital, hosted by the Yoga & Naturopathy OPD (Y/N OPD), under the aegis of CCRYN, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India , as a part of the IDY Countdown Celebrations.  Held at the  Lecture Hall, the event brought together leading healthcare professionals and academicians for a day of knowledge exchange, collaborative dialogue, and experiential learning.

The workshop drew enthusiastic participation from both hospital staff and external guests. The key highlights of the workshop included sessions on the role of yoga in healthcare and stress management, collaborative research opportunities, healthy lifestyle practices for healthcare professionals, and a practical session on yoga for workplace stress management.

Speaking at the event, Dr. (Prof.) Sandeep Bansal, MS, Safdarjung Hospital, emphasized the importance of holistic care, stating, “Incorporating yoga into our healthcare systems offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for stress-related ailments and lifestyle diseases. This initiative is a step forward in making our medical practice more integrative.”He emphasized on the 8 components of Yoga 1. Yama* (Ethical Standards) 2. *Niyama* (Self-Discipline) - 3. *Asana* (Physical Postures)4. *Pranayama* (Breath Control) 5. *Pratyahara* (Sensory Withdrawal) 6. *Dharana* (Concentration) 7. *Dhyana* (Meditation) 8. *Samadhi* (Enlightenment/Bliss) These eight limbs are meant to be practiced together as a holistic approach to yoga, rather than focusing solely on the physical postures.

Dr. Raghvendra Rao, Director, CCRYN, Ministry of AYUSH, lauded the initiative and said, “This workshop exemplifies our commitment to evidence-based integration of traditional practices like yoga into modern medicine. Our aim is to enhance the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of both patients and caregivers.”

Dr. R.P. Arora Additional Medical Superintendent stated that yoga forms an intrinsic bridge between humans and nature, with its practices mirroring natural elements while promoting holistic well-being. He commended the Prime Minister's initiatives in elevating yoga globally through the International Day of Yoga and the Ministry of AYUSH, which have revitalized interest in traditional wellness approaches.

Dr. Sujatha George, Senior Consultant Physician, Yoga and Naturopathy, who organized and led the sessions, shared her reflections: “The workshop created a valuable space for introspection, learning, and sharing. The participation and engagement from medical professionals prove that yoga is being increasingly recognized as a vital tool in preventive and promotive healthcare.”

The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Additional MSs Dr. Charu Bamba, Dr Rekha Tirkey , Dr Yamini , Mr Ashok Pal DDA & Eminent Speakers Dr. Manjit Singh, Dr. Sriloy Mohanty SMO AYUSH AIIMS Rishikesh and Dr. Renuka Sharma, whose presence added to the significance of the workshop.

The workshop concluded on a positive note with an interactive Q&A session, and participants expressed keen interest in future training and collaborative research on the integration of traditional wellness practices into clinical settings.