Sudarshan Kriya

What is Sudarshan Kriya?

2028-08-24T13:41:00.005+05:30

The Sudarshan Kriya, a powerful rhythmic breathing technique that facilitates physical, mental, emotional and social well-being is an integral part of Art of Living programmes.

It is today universally acclaimed for its effectiveness in eliminating stress and bringing one completely into the present moment.

As H. H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar puts it, the Sudarshan Kriya came to him like an inspiration to bridge the gap between the worlds of inner silence and outer expression of life.

Nature is replete with various rhythms and cycles - day follows night, night follows day, seasons come and go. Similarly, there are biological rhythms to our bodies, minds and emotions. When these rhythms are in sync, we feel a sense of harmony and well-being. When stress or illness throws them out of order, we experience discomfort and discontent and feel upset and unhappy.

‘Su’ means proper, ‘darshan’ means vision, and ‘Kriya’ is a purifying practice. The Sudarshan Kriya is therefore a purifying practice, whereby one receives a proper vision of one’s true self. This unique breathing practice is a potent energizer.

Every cell becomes fully oxygenated and flooded with new life, bringing a sense of joy in the moment. And when we feel good about ourselves, love flows naturally in all our relationships with others.

The rhythmic breathing pattern of Sudarshan Kriya harmonizes the rhythms of the body and emotions and brings them in tune with the rhythms of nature. The breath connects the body and mind. Just as emotions affect our patterns of breathing, we can bring about changes in our mental and behavioral patterns by altering the rhythms of our breath. It flushes our anger, anxiety and worry; leaving the mind completely relaxed and energized.

The results of Sudarshan Kriya have surprised the medical fraternity across the world.

‘My cancer disappeared'

A doctor from Germany was suffering from metastatic cancer that had spread to her brain and liver when she came to attend her first Art of Living program. She did the course lying down. Two courses later, the cancer had disappeared. Being a doctor, she was requested to explain this. She suggested that possibly, the Sudarshan Kriya and meditation cleared her cells off stresses, leaving the layer of consciousness (or energy) surrounding those cells; which in turn, penetrated deep into her DNA.

Independent medical research has documented the benefits of the technique, including alleviation of depression and heightened awareness and creativity.

Studies have demonstrated significant falls in cortical levels, known as the ‘stress hormone' among Sudarshan Kriya practitioners, suggesting greater levels of both, relaxation and resilience to stress.

A study by All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, concluded that regular practice of the Sudarshan Kriya invokes positive emotions, replacing anger, frustration and jealousy.

It's also found that it improves the blood cholesterol profile with significant drops in total cholesterol and LDL (harmful) cholesterol, as well as increases in HDL (beneficial) cholesterol.

Also, check out the below video:

Sudarshan Kriya powers Tine's Mount Everest climb

2011-12-20T10:26:00.001+05:30

Mount Everester Tine Mena tells how the Sudarshan Kriya helped her when she was struggling to breathe!

She has not only climbed the Mount Everest, but also conquered the summit of life. Coming from a remote village in Arunachal Pradesh, India and born into a poor family of farmers, Tine Mena had to scale many a peak of life before she actually climbed the famed Himalayan summit. For the record, this 25-year old from Eshali village near the Indo-China border scaled the peak on May 9, 2011, becoming the first lady from the North East India to do so.

Everything, except her grit, was going against her. The raging wind had knocked off her tent when she reached 7200m, forcing her to take shelter in the tent of another expedition. She was fatigued. On the eve of her D-day, she had to survive on a half-a-packet of instant noodles. Her wireless phone was already off power, which meant there was no communication with the base camp for three days.

Yet nothing mattered to her. She lived, slept, and dreamt only Mount Everest until her courage won the day at 11am on that memorable Monday. “My ability to take everything in its stride and stay relaxed under trying circumstances proved to be the most vital and powerful weapon for me,” she reveals.

Read More: Art of Living Global Site

Veterans learn to use yoga and meditation exercises to reconnect with their emotions in a UW-Madison study

2011-12-02T20:07:00.003+05:30

Rich Low of Madison served as an infantry officer in the Army in Iraq in 2005 and 2006, leading some 280 combat missions. When he came back from the service, he didn't think his experience affected him in any major way. He had nightmares, and he startled easily, but he chalked that up to just something veterans live with.

Then he enrolled in a study he initially wrote off as "just some hippie thing," where he learned about yoga breathing and meditation. A year later, Low, 30, sums up his experience with two words: "It works."
That's the idea behind the study coming from The Center for Investigating Healthy Minds, at the Waisman Center on the UW-Madison campus. Researchers there, including associate scientist Emma Seppala, believe something as simple as breathing can change the lives of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, even those who don't think they have post-traumatic stress disorder.

"Military people don't want to be seen as victims, they're so brave," Seppala said. "They're not always open to therapy because they hate the victim status, so we want to give them practices to empower them with tools they can use to help themselves."

To that end, the scientists at the CIHM plan to take what they learned in the pilot study and back it up with neuroscience, with a larger study planned for early next year.

"There will be the inclusion of a very significant neuroscience component in this new phase," said Richard Davidson, founder and chair of the CIHM. "We'll use state-of-the-art brain imaging methods to examine changes in brain functions and structure that are induced by these interventions."
Emotions resurface

Last year's pilot study involved a weeklong regimen in which veterans learned a yoga breathing technique called Sudarshan Kriya yoga, which involves cyclical breathing patterns, along with mindfulness meditation. Seppala said the treatment holds promise for PTSD symptoms, which include intrusive thoughts, emotional numbness and hypervigilance.

Emotional numbness is something Travis Leanna, a 25-year-old veteran and UW-Madison student, identified with after returning from Iraq, where he served with the Marines for six months.
"The study was an eye-opener," he said, after admitting he signed up for it because of the stipend involved. "I didn't have PTSD, but I felt disconnected."

After a close family member committed suicide in 2009, Leanna said, "I was almost unaffected, I didn't feel it. I looked at life objectively, like I was just going through the motions."

He signed up for the meditation study with low expectations. "I thought what they were proposing was pretty goofy. I thought, ‘They're going to tell me to clear my mind — what does that even mean?'"
In the end, it meant something that came as a shock.

"It brought back my feelings. The experience opened me up," Leanna said, so much so that he continues to use the breathing techniques often.

"They help me focus and de-stress," he said. "That experience changed my life, and I don't even have PTSD."
‘Embryonic stage'

Science seems to be just catching up with ideas espoused by ancient practices such as yoga and meditation.

"The goal of these kinds of practices is to change one's relationship to the trauma, change one's relationship to the negative emotions and intrusive thoughts that may arise as a consequence of the trauma," Davidson said.

"By changing one's relationships to these disturbing emotions and thoughts, the goal is that eventually those emotions and thoughts will decrease in their intensity," he said, allowing veterans to move past their trauma.

This sort of treatment could also help those who struggle with mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression, that aren't associated with military service.

"There is a little bit of evidence in the scientific literature that speaks to the efficacy of these interventions for a broader range of disorders, although it's also important to underscore that the work in these areas is at a very embryonic stage," Davidson said. "Our work is really part of a new chapter in research on the applications of these methods with specific clinical groups using rigorous controlled designs."

The scope of this study will be determined by private funding, as parts of the research require many resources, such as the brain imaging component, Davidson said.

Coping styles
The scientists are seeking veterans to participate in this next larger study, which will examine the differences between the yogic breathing technique versus meditation.

One of the main goals of the new study is to determine who will benefit most from which treatment. As Davidson said, "One size may not fit all."

Indeed, veteran Low underscored the differences in coping styles among veterans.
"In the military, the way of dealing with an intense situation — like if someone in your platoon is killed — is to sit with chaplain for a ‘cry session' for maybe an hour, and then you just have to move on," he said.
The tools he learned at the CIHM take about the same time, and they work for him, but "each person is unique," he said. "You have to have several ways to deal with things."

Caught on film
The research study is the subject of a documentary film called "Free the Mind," which will be released in 2012. Phie Ambo, the documentarian, contacted Davidson with the idea of a film on the work being done at the CIHM.

"She filmed me in very remote places of the planet," he said, but the focus of the film is on the veterans.
Seppala, the head scientist on the study, said she was thrilled to have the documentarians chronicle the experiment and capture the emotions involved.

"It's so wonderful to have this film, so that the experience is more than just a paper in a journal," she said.
Low is featured in the film, and he expressed hope his participation will help other veterans who may be reticent to admit they need help.

"Appearance means a lot in the military. Our uniforms have to be perfectly ironed and starched. We're not used to dropping our guard," he said. "I had to let my guard down big time, but that's incredibly valuable if it helps people."

Low's altruistic philosophy comes from a very personal place. After coming back from Iraq, he said he started to feel a lot of intense guilt and frustration, "guilt at things that I had been a part of."
He withdrew emotionally, and his loved ones took notice.

"I think the breathing released a lot of stuff I had kept bottled up," he said. "This study took me back through my events in Iraq, and my body finally started dealing with the things in my mind."

Earlier this year, after the study, Low went hunting with his dad. His easy demeanor impressed his father, who remarked, "You're you again. The you from five years ago."

Source: Wisconsin State Journal

30 years of Sudarshan Kriya

2011-09-18T17:30:00.003+05:30

BANGALORE: Founded 30 years ago to create a stress-free and non-violent world, the Art of Living gave breathing a new dimension. On September 17, 1981, the Sudarshan Kriya was revealed to AOL founder Sri Sri Ravishankar on the banks of the Bhadra river in Shimoga district. On Saturday, 30 years later, Sri Sri goes back in time and tells STOI about this health-promoting breathing technique. Excerpts:

How did it feel when Sudarshan Kriya was first revealed to you? It was just like giving birth to a long-awaited child.

Why did you observe silence for ten days? Ten days of silence and fasting was an inner calling. I had already travelled around the world. I had taught yoga and meditation. But I wasn't satisfied. I was concerned about how to help people live a happy life. I felt something was lacking. I wanted to bridge the gap between inner silence and outer expression of life. There was something lacking. So I took the vow of silence.

During the ten days of silence, the Sudarshan Kriya came like an inspiration. Nature knows what to give and when to give. After I came out of this silence, I started teaching whatever I knew and people had great experiences.

Who revealed it to you? Not somebody. I had several visions which I'll reveal at the proper time.

Source: The Times of India - Bangalore

The Stress-Breath Connection (Huffington Post: Michael Fischman)

2011-08-30T11:43:00.002+05:30

The breath can be a powerful tool for regulating the mind and eliminating stress and impurities. Inhalation brings vital energy to the body, and exhalation relieves stress and eliminates toxins. The breath is also related to the vital life force or bio-energy. In the East, this vital force is known as "prana" or "chi." A lack of this energy results in lethargy, irritability, low enthusiasm, doubt and even depression. Conversely, more of this energy results in an overall improvement in productivity, health and interest in life.

There is another fascinating aspect to notice about the breath. Every emotion creates a specific rhythm or pattern of breath. When someone is anxious, under pressure or stressed there is a deviation in the natural rhythm of the breath, which limits energy and mental clarity. When centered and relaxed, the breath becomes more full and light, and efficiency and enthusiasm increases.

For the past 20 years, I have been teaching a powerful breathing technique, developed by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, called "Sudarshan Kriya Yoga" (SKY). It makes use of the relation between breath and emotions by including specific rhythms of breath that harmonize the body, mind and emotions and help individuals find relief from stress. Published studies have shown that after only one experience of SKY, there is an increase of the well-being hormone prolactin, among many other findings. Many of my students see improvements with depression, asthma, relationships, substance abuse, paralysis, arthritis, sexual dysfunction, coronary problems and other problems.

Several years ago, while I was in Australia, a woman named Betty showed up at one of my courses. She had lost her husband a dozen years earlier and had never recovered emotionally. She hadn't left her home for 18 months! The psychiatrist who recommended her to me had diagnosed her as agoraphobic, having an abnormal fear of crowds and public places. Medication hadn't worked, and she was willing to try anything. When I first saw her, I thought she might be a homeless woman, hunched over in the back of the room with a forlorn face. Her personal hygiene was appalling, and she smelled so bad that no one came near her. But she came back each of the course's four days, and she followed all the instructions. After her first experience with Sudarshan Kriya, the key breathing technique, she already seemed more natural and relaxed. She waved goodbye to me when she left the session. No one recognized her when she returned to the class the next day. She had showered, brushed her hair and changed her clothes for the first time in weeks. She still didn't speak to people, but she now had a constant smile on her face. By the end of the course, she was interacting briefly but regularly with other people in the class.

Betty was committed to doing the kriya daily. And when I returned three weeks later for a follow-up session, she was waiting for me. She wore a beautiful dress and greeted me with a bouquet of flowers. She told me that her whole life had changed. She had gone to the library a few times and had started cleaning her home. I could tell she still had traces of her illness but she was clearly on her way. Within three months, she was volunteering at a senior center once a week and thinking about getting a job.

I see this sort of thing so often, but the results from the simple, skillful use of the breath are so outsized that I can't say I fully understand it. There is one other aspect to the breath that seems key. It is common for people to find their thoughts and feelings vacillating between regretting the past and worrying about the future. This is a major aspect of stress and even emotional trauma.

Of course, the only time a person can be happy is right now, not in the past or future. And the breath is always in the present. Attending to the breath becomes a simple way to bring the mind and emotions to the present and give a rest to the habit of traveling to the past and future.

Michael Fischman is a leader in the field of personal development. He is a founding member and current president of the U.S. Art of Living Foundation.

For more information, visit http://www.artofliving.org

Source: Huffington Post: Michael Fischman

Sudarshan kriya helps in curing drug addicts

2011-08-30T11:38:00.004+05:30

LUDHIANA: The Art of Living group has claimed to have cured 8,000 drug addicts through its various camps, which are being regularly organized in various areas of the city. During a press conference at the Satluj Club on Wednesday, representatives of the Art of Living claimed that Sudarshan Kriya, a yoga posture, has proved to be the best solution for helping people recover from the deadly addiction of drugs.

Pardeep Choudhary, an activist of the Art of Living, said, " Drug addiction centres being run by government are not enough to help drug addicts. In fact, people are afraid of going to these centres. On the other hand, we are using other ways to cure the patient. A drug addict does not need any medicine but only mental support."

The Art of living is running anti-drug addiction camps in rural parts of Ludhiana. According to another activist Munish Chopra, "We are getting very good response in Ludhiana. We are running such camps in some parts of Doaba. But main stress is on Ludhiana."

Ludhiana - City - The Times of India

Sudarshan Kriya - In the news

2010-08-23T10:27:00.007+05:30

Sudarshan Kriya powers Tine's Mount Everest climb

Veterans learn to use yoga and meditation exercises to reconnect with their emotions

The Stress-Breath Connection (Huffington Post: Michael Fischman)

Sudarshan kriya helps in curing drug addicts

30 years of Sudarshan Kriya

Medical findings about the Sudarshan Kriya Yoga:

2010-08-10T19:52:00.000+05:30

A world conference on science, consciousness and spirituality held in New Delhi noted the key findings of research conducted on the Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY). Below is a simplified synopsis:

1. Less depression, more elation
Dr Richard Brown from the USA has postulated that SKY contributes to a state of alert calmness through its effect on the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is crucial in social bonding, empathy and love; it is the centre of our gut instincts and is crucial to our ability to perceive, observe and make complex decisions. Impaired vagal activity is found in people with depression, anxiety, panic disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, violent adults, post traumatic stress disorder, early Alzheimer’s and obesity.

2. Sleep like a baby
`Stephen Porges suggested that the different rhythms of breath in SKY stimulates different fibers of the vagus nerve. This makes SKY unique and likely to have a much wider range of effects. Interestingly, brain wave rhythms during and after SKY are similar to those of babies.

3. Think Positive
Dr Fahri Saatcioglu from Oslo did a 6-week study on the effect of SKY on the relaxation response and feeling of wellness on 109 subjects. 56 of them went through the SKY course and performed SKY yoga daily for 6 weeks. The other 53 relaxed in an armchair for 15 minutes daily for the same period. 6 weeks later, a significant increase in the experience of wellness in the SKY group was noted as compared to the ‘armchair’ group. There was a sharp decrease in anxiety, depression and stress and a marked increase in optimistic thinking in the SKY group.

4. Live longer
Dr Neeta Singh from New Delhi studied the effects of SKY on the genes that affect stress related pathways of the human body. She found an increase in vital antioxidant enzymes that are responsible for a longer life span and better protection against cancer.

5. Healthy heart, skin and blood pressure
Dr Stephen Larsen from the USA studied neurophysiological responses before, during and after SKY. The tests run were EEG (recorded at 19 cortical sites), EKG, heart rate variability, galvanic skin response, hand skin temperature, pulse plethysmography and blood pressure. He found that SKY practices produced significant changes in ALL physiological measures. It appears that over a period of time, the practitioner’s health becomes more robust, flexible and able to deal with the challenges of stress. This explains why regular practice of SKY is very important.

6. Decreased work-related stress
Dr Vedamurthachar from Bangalore studied the effect of the AOL Course on occupational stress and anxiety among 60 software engineers. At the end of a month, the 30 engineers who took the AOL course showed a sharp reduction in anxiety and improvement in stress coping skills as compared with the 30 controls.

7. SKY and vegetarian meals for good health
E G Lyulyakina from Russia studied the oral micro flora of SKY practitioners. She found that the number of microorganisms in lacto vegetarians were 2-3 times less than that in ‘non strict’ vegetarians. She concluded that practice of SKY and a vegetarian diet reduces the microbial content of the mouth.

8. Fight Cholesterol
Dr Chiplonkar from Pune studied the lifestyle, behavioral and health aspects of 105 adults before and after undergoing the part I Art of Living Course. She found that majority of micronutrients showed a positive correlation with sattvic foods. After the practice of SKY for 2 months, she found a significant reduction in anxiety, sharp increase in antioxidant capacity, reduction in triglycerides and a marginal reduction in oxidative stress.

9. Beneficial for cancer patients
Arielle Warner in USA studied the psycho spiritual benefits of SKY were studied in women diagnosed with breast cancer. The subjects were evaluated 2 weeks before the Art of Living Course, 8 days after the Course and after 5 weeks of regular practice. A significant improvement in quality of life, spiritual well being, positive states of mind and perceived stress was observed after the AOL course and was maintained 5 weeks later.

10. SKY rules over other similar yoga tools
Dr Janis Carter from Australia compared the effects of different modalities like Iyengar and Desikachar yoga, Qi Gong, Sudarshan Kriya Yoga and a multicomponent yoga intervention (MCYI) in treating Australian Vietnam war veterans with long standing Post traumatic Stress disorder. She found that the interventions that used many tools of yoga viz. Sudarshan Kriya Yoga and MCYI showed the greatest efficacy.

11. Psychoanalytical healing
Dr Patricia Gerberg from USA discussed the effects of doing the SKY program in a patient undergoing psychoanalysis since a long time. She found SKY useful in healing negative past impressions and the `dissociation’ that rendered the patient unable to connect with others and with his own feelings.

Impact of Sudarshan Kriya - Harvard Health report

2010-03-05T13:32:00.015+05:30

To read the entire 'Harvard Health study report', please Click HERE

Founder of Sudarshan Kriya - H. H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

2010-02-09T07:01:00.014+05:30

His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a renowned spiritual leader and multi-faceted humanitarian whose mission of uniting the world into a violence-free family has inspired millions of people worldwide. The icon of non-violence and universal human values, Sri Sri seeks global peace through service and dialog.

Born in 1956 in southern India, Sri Sri's appeal transcends class, race, religion and nationality. Millions of people revere him as their spiritual leader, and look up to him for inner peace and promoting ecumenical values.

In 1981, Sri Sri started the Art of Living Foundation, an international nonprofit educational and humanitarian organization. The Foundation, now active in more than 140 countries, offers educational and self-development programs designed to eliminate stress and foster a sense of well-being. In Europe and the United States, the Foundation's programs are helping inner city youth turn away from gang violence, drugs and alcohol. Sri Sri's Prison Programs have helped transform the lives of an estimated 150,000 inmates around the world.

In 1997, Sri Sri founded the International Association for Human Values, a humanitarian nonprofit organization that advances human values in political, economic, industrial, and social spheres. In South Asia, South Africa, and Latin America, the Association's sustainable development programs have reached more than 30,000 rural communities.

While his self development programs have popularized traditionally exclusive ancient techniques, Sri Sri's social initiatives address an array of issues such as conflict resolution, disaster and trauma relief, prisoner rehabilitation, youth leadership, women's empowerment, female foeticide, child labor, and access to education. In Kashmir and Sri Lanka, Sri Sri is working to further dialogue between opposing parties to resolve the conflicts peacefully.

Sri Sri travels to more than 40 countries a year to share his message of social responsibility, and that all great spiritual traditions share common goals and values. His teachings of love, practical wisdom, and service promote harmony among people, and encourage individuals to follow their chosen spiritual path, while honoring other paths.

Also, check out the below videos:

Experience the Sudarshan Kriya > Art of Living Part I Course

2010-02-08T13:35:00.037+05:30

The masterpiece of the Art of Living Course is a powerful breathing-based technique called Sudarshan Kriya , or the healing breath. Sudarshan Kriya incorporates specific natural rhythms of breath to release stress and bring the mind to the present moment.

The Art of Living Course gives participants the practical knowledge and techniques to unlock their deepest potential and bring fullness to life. Whether happy and successful or feeling the stress of poor health, disappointments, or fear, every participant is cared for and comes away lighter, with effective techniques for releasing mental and physical stress and increasing his or her health, energy, peace, self-knowledge, awareness, and joy.

Experience Peace of Mind

Much of the stress or limitations in life come from vacillating between regret about the past or worry about the future. And yet, the present is the only place that happiness can be experienced. A remarkable feature of the course is that participants are able to re-discover the present moment — not as a concept but as a direct experience.

Simple Techniques for Daily Life

Participants leave with simple but powerful techniques they can practice every day, and an extraordinary weekly group practice is available in many areas. These practices are sacred treasures that grow in value over the years, helping the benefits continue to blossom in daily life.

The course also includes other breathing techniques, meditation, low-impact yoga, and skills for dealing effectively with challenging emotions and situations.

Several independent studies on the numerous mental and physical health benefits of the course have been published in international peer-reviewed journals and confirm what participants commonly report.

The Art of Living Course has been enjoyed by people of all traditions, religions, and walks of life, in universities, churches, governments, businesses, prisons, war zones, community rooms, and living rooms. The course is complete in itself and is also a foundation for other Art of Living programs.

Register for the Art of Living Part I course today!!!

For Part I course in India: Click HERE

For Part I course outside India: Click HERE
(Contact the AOL Centers near your place, to find out the Part I Course details)

Note: Click HERE to download the Part I Course registration form

Apart from the Part 1 course, there are many other Art of Living courses, depending on the age criteria, that offer Sudarshan Kriya. Click HERE for more details.

Also, check out the below videos:

Sudarshan Kriya Testimonials

2010-02-07T20:40:00.005+05:30

"The Art of Living course practices have changed my life. Negative emotions do not have the same grip on me and they go away faster. I really think my health has improved also. I am strongly recommending the course to all my friends, family, and patients."
- Jyotsna Sahni, Doctor, Tucson, Arizona

"Though my yoga practice has long been essential to my well-being, since I began practicing Sudarshan Kriya, I feel lighter, as though I'm carrying less emotional baggage, while I feel a growing solidity at my core."
- Amy Weintraub, Author of Yoga for Depression

"The Art of Living Course is the most precious gift I have ever received. The knowledge spoken and the practices taught were shared with so much love. I have happiness, strength and peace. The world has been waiting for this course."
- Daniel Mendez, Writer, Houston, Texas

"The Sudarshan Kriya has dissipated alot of the worries and anxieties I had in my life. Now I am able to deal with every day challenges with a feeling of inner strength."
- John Chu, Realtor, Miami, Florida

"Two years ago, I had been suffering from chronic appendicitis and was asked to undergo surgery. Ever since my Kriya practice, I no longer have this pain."
- Muthu (Senior Principal Engineer), Australia

"I learnt the "the art of living ." Living in the now, not in the past or future. Being able to cope with both my positive and negative emotions and being able to handle them in a manner that leaves me unaffected. Enjoying every moment and cherishing everything I have right here, right now."
- Rashmi Patel, Full Time Mother, San Ramon, California

"After doing the sudarshan kriya I have more energy and am relaxed and calm ... and I actually slept well for the first time in 22 years!"
- Robyn Johnson (Housewife), Australia

Also, check out the below testimonial videos:

Published research on Sudarshan Kriya

2010-02-05T20:32:00.013+05:30

Below are the links to the AOL research articles that were published in
international peer-reviewed journals.


Naga Venkatesha Murthy, P.J., Gangadhar, B.N., Janakiramaiah, N., Subbakrishna, D.K. (1997). Normalization of P300 Amplitude following Treatment in Dysthymia. Biological Psychiatry, 42, 740-743. Abstract Short Summary

Janakiramaiah, N., Gangadhar, BN., Naga Venkatesha Murthy, P.J., Harish, M.G., Subbakrishna D.K., Vedamurthachar A. (2000). Antidepressant efficacy of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) in melancholia: a randomized comparison with Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and Imipramine. Journal of Affective Disorders. 57(1-3):255-9. Abstract Short Summary

Bhatia, M., Kumar, A., Kumar, N., Pandey, R.M., and Kochupillai, V. (2003). Electrophysiologic evaluation of Sudarshan Kriya: an EEG, BAER, and P300 study. Indian J. Physiol. Pharmacol. 47, 157-163. Abstract Short Summary

Sharma, H., Sen, S., Singh, N.K. Bhardwaj, V. Kochupillai, N. Singh (2003). Sudarshan Kriya practitioners exhibit better antioxidant status and lower blood lactate levels. Biological Psychology 63:281-291. Abstract Short Summary

Gerbarg, P.L., and Brown, R.P. (Oct. 2005). Yoga: A breath of relief for Hurricane Katrina refugees. Current Psychiatry 4, 55-67. Abstract

Kochupillai, V., Kumar, P., Singh, D., Aggarwal, D., Bhardwaj, N., Bhutani, M., DAS, S.N. (2005) Effect of rhythmic breathing (sudarshan kriya and pranayam) on immune functions and tobacco addiction. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1056:242-52. Abstract Short Summary

Vedamurthachar, A., Janakiramaiah, N., Hegde, J.M., Shetty, T.K., Subbakrishna, D.K., Sureshbabu, S.V., Gangadhar, B.N. (2006) Antidepressant efficacy and hormonal effects of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) in alcohol dependent individuals. J Affect Disord. 94, 249-253. Abstract Short Summary

Brazier, A., Mulkins, A., Verhoef, M. (2006) Evaluating a yogic breathing and meditation intervention for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Am J Health Promot. 20, 192-195. Abstract Short Summary

Sageman, S., and Brown, R. 2006. Free at Last, in DSM-IV-TR Case Book Volume 2, edited by R.L. Spitzer, M.B. First, J.B.W.Williams, M. Gibbon. American Psychiatric Publishing, Inc. Washington, DC. 2006. pp.109-121. Short Summary

Kjellgren, A, Bood, SA, Axelsson, K, Norlander, T, Saatcioglu, F.(2007). Wellness through a comprehensive Yogic breathing program - A controlled pilot trial. BMC Complement Altern Med. 7:43-50 Abstract Full Text

Sharma H, Datta P, Singh A, Sen S, Bhardwaj NK, Kochupillai V, Singh N. (2008) Gene expression profiling in practitioners of Sudarshan Kriya. J Psychosom Res. 2008 Feb;64(2):213-8 Abstract Short Summary

Descilo, T., Vedamurtachar. A., Gerbarg, P. L., Nagaraja, D., Gangadhar, B. N., Damodaran, B., Adelson, B., Braslow, L. H., Marcus, S., Brown, R. P. (2009). Effects of a yoga breath intervention alone and in combination with an exposure therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression in survivors of the 2004 South-East Asia tsunami. Acta Psychiatr Scand., in press. Abstract Full Text

Latest Research on Sudarshan Kriya

2010-02-05T20:24:00.014+05:30

Dr Vinod Kochupillai, head of the Cancer Centre at AIIMS, the premiere medical institute of India, explains the scientific aspect of Sudarshan Kriya:

"In today's society, psycho-neuroimmunology (PNI), often referred to as of mind-body importance, is becoming very popular. PNI shows how the mind and emotions influence both the nervous and immune systems. For instance, happy people produce chemical messengers, which travel from the nervous system to the immune system, resulting in better health.

Sudarshan kriya is a unique breathing process, which removes stress from the body. Negative toxins are flushed out and each cell is flooded with new life to energize body and mind. This experience of centeredness, freedom and fulfillment releases neuropeptides, which influence the immune system positively and hence, the whole physiology.

Both sudarshan kriya and pranayama have been researched in Nimhans, Bangalore, India, where it was found successful with 70-80 per cent patients suffering from severe depression. Abnormal brain wave patterns turned normal with regular practice.

Studies conducted at Harvard, USA, revealed that 70-80 per cent patients suffering from AIDS benefited from this process. Lymph node swellings decreased, pain was reduced, breathing and digestion improved, energy levels increased. The Republic of Slovenia conducted a research on patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. With sudarshan kriya, significant improvement was found in the patient's mobility, endurance levels and lung capacity while anxiety levels came down.

Ongoing studies at AIIMS suggest that these processes help cancer patients also. It also helps in controlling the urge to consume tobacco."

Also, click HERE to download the PPT on 'The Benefits of Sudarshan Kriya' in respect of the research conducted by Dr Kochupillai.

Key findings of the latest research done on Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) in the World Conference held in Delhi:

Dr Richard Brown from the USA discussed how the application of newer technologies to basic research in Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) has thrown light on our understanding of how SKY works.
He postulated that SKY contributes to a state of alert calmness by its effect on the vagus nerve which is the core of the parasympathetic system. Recent studies have shown that the vagus nerve is crucial in social bonding, empathy and love; it is the centre of our gut instincts and is crucial to our ability to perceive, observe and make complex decisions.

Vagal activity is estimated from the respiratory sinus arrhythmia as measured by heart rate variability. Impaired vagal activity is found in people with depression, anxiety, panic disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, violent adults, fibromyalgia, post traumatic stress disorder, early Alzheimer's and obesity.

Nowadays, an instrument that artificially stimulates the vagus nerve is being used to treat depression, epilepsy, early Alzheimer's disease and is an experimental treatment for obesity.

Stephen Porges, the foremost expert on the activity of the vagus nerve on reviewing the research done on SKY has suggested that the different rhythms of breath in SKY may stimulate different diameter fibers of the vagus nerve. This makes SKY unique and likely to have a much wider range of effects than the currently available electronic vagus nerve stimulator. Dr Brown suggested that other mechanisms by which SKY works are by calming of stress response systems, neuroendocrine release of hormones, nitric oxide neurotransmission, fear conditioning circuits (prefrontal cortex and limbic system), and thalamic generators. He also discussed various knowledge points as articulated by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar from a neuro scientific perspective.

PS: More research on Prison Program Case Studies - Click here

Research on Sudarshan Kriya

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Experimental Research

EEG During Sudarshan Kriya.
M.Bhatia.
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Flowcytometric Study of T-cell Subset and Natural Killer Cells in Peripheral Blood of Art of Living Teachers, Normal Subjects and Cancer Patients.
Satya Das, Vinod Kochupillai.
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The Effects of Stress Reduction and Stress Inducing Techniques on the Visual System.
Virsha G.Vallabh, Anees Asmaljee, Nicolene Victor.
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Evaluation of The Art of Living Basic Course as the Anti-stress Program for Police Officers in the Slovenian Police.
Hedviko Visnikar, Gorazd Mesko.
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Anxiety study at Lancaster Violence Alternative LA County Probation Camp for violent youth offenders.
V. Suarez.
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Stress management for law enforcement -- pilot study.
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Theoretical Research

Yogic Breathing and Meditation. When the Thalamus Quiets the Cortex and rouses the limbic system.

Richard P. Brown.
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How SK Can Treat the Cognitive,
Psychodynamic and Neuro-Psychiatric Problems of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Sharon Sagemann.
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The Role of Autonomic Nervous System in Rapid Breathing Practices.
K.K. Deepak.
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Newman, R. (2008) The Utility of Ancient Complementary Therapies in Modern Mental Health Treatment.
Georgia Psychologist, Spring 2008.
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Miraculous Effect of Sudarshan Kriya

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Research Summary-Improved Brain Function: To study the long-term effects of SK&P on brain function, EEG (electroencephalogram) changes were recorded in 19 SK&P practitioners outside of the practice of SK&P, and compared with EEG patterns of 16 controls(doctors and researchers who did not practice SK&P, yoga, or meditation). Significant increases in beta activity were observed in the left frontal, occipital, and midline regions of the brain in the SK&P practitioners,as compared to controls (p<0.05). These results are interpreted by neurologists as indicative of increased ental focus/heightened awareness in K&P practitioners. It is striking to note that K&P practitioners displayed significantly greater mental alertness (beta activity) than the control group of physicians and medical researchers, whose profession requires development and daily use of these very skills.

EEG activity was also studied during the practice of SK&P in five females of similar age, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds. This study found an increase in EEG alpha activity, with interspersed persistence of beta activity. This indicates a state of relaxation co-existing with heightened alertness.

Effect on Cortisol, the “Stress Hormone”:
Several studies have demonstrated significant falls in cortisol levels. In one study, blood cortisol, known as the “stress hormone,” was measured in 21 individuals, 35–50 years of age. Regular SK&P practitioners (Group 1) were compared with beginning practitioners (Group 2) during their SK&P sessions. The beginning practitioners were also measured before learning SK&P, while listening to classical music (Group 3). Among beginners, the fall in cortisol levels was significantly greater during SK&P than when listening to classical music, suggesting that SK&P produces a better relaxation response.

Regular SK&P practitioners had significantly lower blood cortisol levels at baseline than beginning practitioners, indicating that they experienced less physiological stress under the demands of daily living. The significant further fall in serum cortisol levels, during and following SK&P, among beginning and regular practitioners, suggests that regular practice of SK&P progressively develops greater levels of both relaxation and resilience to stress.

Effect on Blood Lactate:
Blood lactate is another biochemical measure of stress. Participants in police training constitute a highly stressed group.

They undergo intense physical and emotional training daily. Blood lactate was measured in 10 such individuals, both before learning SK&P and after the first session. There was a significant fall in lactate levels after SK&P, suggesting that it induces a state of relaxation.

Effect on Immune Function:
The immune system protects us from disease. Natural killer (NK) cells are the surveillance cells of the immune system and are capable of destroying tumor cells as well as infected cells. NK cells were significantly higher (p<0.001) in the SK&P group than in either non-practicing individuals or in cancer patients in remission. The cancer patients then learned SK&P. After 3–6 months of regular practice, there was a significant increase in the cancer patients’ NK cell count. This is particularly encouraging, since cancer survivors have abnormally low levels of NK cells, and NK cells are believed to be important in the body’s defense against new and recurring cancers.

Effect on Antioxidant Enzymes:
The body is repeatedly exposed to environmental pollutants, and its cells continuously produce normal metabolic byproducts. Both of these factors can result in the formation of free radicals. These react with oxygen and cause oxidant damage, contributing to many diseases, including cancer and such cardiovascular diseases as heart disease and stroke. To counteract these free radicals, the human body has a defense system in the form of antioxidant enzymes. A study was conducted to assess the effect of SK&P on antioxidant enzymes.

Levels of three major antioxidant enzymes— superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione—were all found to be significantly higher in SK&P practitioners than in the matched control group. These data suggest that people who practice SK&P have an improved antioxidant status and an enhanced defenseagainst oxidant damage.
Effect on Blood Cholesterol:
Psychosocial stress is a major contributor to hypertension and coronary heart disease (CHD). In CHD, deposits of LDL cholesterol, fat, and other substances on the arterial walls slow or block the flow of blood, resulting in heart malfunction. A study was conducted to assess the cholesterol levels of individuals before they learned SK&P, as well as after 7 and 45 days of regular practice.

Significant drops in total cholesterol and LDL (harmful) cholesterol, as well as increases in HDL (beneficial) cholesterol were observed. These findings suggest that SK&P improves the blood cholesterol profile, and that regular practice may therefore prove to be an effective tool in preventing and arresting hypertension and CHD.Effect on Depression: SK&P has been shown to have a 68%–73% success rate in the treatment of depression, regardless of severity. Relief from depression, determined by psychiatric evaluation and standard psychiatric measures (Beck Depression Inventory, Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, and others), was experienced within three weeks. At the threemonth follow-ups, patients remained stable and in remission. Published studies further suggest that SK&P normalises patients’ brainwave patterns, increases serum prolactin (a “well-being” hormone), and is as effective as standard anti-depressant drug regimens. Yet it is safe, free of unwanted side-effects, cost-effective, and self-empowering.Conclusions: The subjective reports of increased health, vitality, wellbeing, and peace of mind by thousands of SK&P practitioners are consistent with research findings to date, which suggest an overall strengthening of the mind/body system. EEG, blood cortisol, and lactate levels reflect a state of relaxation, yet alertness. Significant increases in NK cells and antioxidant enzymes suggest that regular practice may help prevent many serious diseases. Decreases in cholesterol may prevent cardiac disease, and depression is quickly alleviated in a high percentage of individuals. Thus, even though further studies are needed, these findings point to the powerful health restoration and promotion effects of these time-honored practices.You may download these Research Summary:

The Science of Breath Brochure

Sudarshan Kriya in the treatment of Depression

Also, check out the below video:

Biochemistry of Sudarshan Kriya

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Ever wondered, what causes us to age, resulting in death of our body cells over the years, develop heart disease leading to plaque in the artery, or suffer from cancer causing cells to mutate and grow erratically? The answer may be simpler than we think.

Some researchers say the common denominator in all these conditions is the antioxidant status — the level of chemical process that takes place in our cells and genes. Like we measure our cholesterol level, researchers argue, we can measure our antioxidant status and determine how vulnerable we are to diseases.

In a pilot study, biochemists at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) studied the effect of Sudarshan Kriya on the antioxidant status of individuals. Sudarshan Kriya is a well known rhythmic breathing technique promoted by the Art of Living workshops.

It is preceded by Ujjayi Pranayam or long and deep breaths with constriction at the base of throat and Bhastrika or fast and forceful breaths through the nose along with arm movements.

Before we talk about their findings, let’s step back into our biochemistry class and understand what antioxidant status means. According to the free-radical theory, the cells in our body are being constantly damaged and destroyed by oxygen radicals, similar to what dirt and rust do to our cars. Oxygen radicals are different from oxygen gas in that they are molecules that are highly charged and detrimental byproducts of cell reactions.

Our body has an antioxidant defense system that constantly searches and destroys these oxygen radicals, much like our immune system, which polices our body for foreign agents such as bacteria and viruses and eliminates them. If the antioxidant defense system of our body is weak, then the number of oxygen radicals increases, causing our cells to die quickly. This results in inflammation and plaque within our heart vessels or prompts the cells to mutate into cancer cells. If we reduce the number of oxygen radicals, we improve the antioxidant status in our body, and we live longer and lead a disease free life.

It is important that we try to reduce the level of oxygen radicals and strengthen our defense system. We can increase our antioxidant levels through our diet. A healthy diet of vegetable and fruit increases our intake of important antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C, E, and beta caroten.

- As published in The Times Of India, Delhi paper dated Feb 24, 2008 [Dr Manoj Jain is an infectious disease physician working in Memphis (US) and Indore (MP)]

Interview with Sri Sri

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The following interview took place in the year 2006, when Sri Sri visited California.

Michael Fischman: Is enlightenment really possible for the average person?

Sri Sri: Yes, a big yes. Enlightenment is very possible for the ordinary individual. Actually, it is easier than for someone who thinks that they are special. You see, when someone thinks they are special, their ego becomes involved. “I am a great teacher,” or “I am a great writer,” that is only ego. Whenever someone is ordinary, simple, innocent and natural, that is enlightenment. Enlightenment is your very nature. It is in you already, in seed form. When you drop all the tensions and hang-ups and become natural, then it is right in your hand. We simply need to let go of the old patterns that are in the mind, just drop them. Then you see that something in you flowers and dawns. It is beautiful.

Michael Fischman: During the Art of Living Basic Course there is a lot of focus on the breath. Why is that?

Sri Sri: Our breath plays a very important role in our life. The breath is the connecting link between the inner world of the mind and the outer world of the body and environment. You see, there are seven levels of existence: body, breath, mind, intellect, memory, ego and the Being. Meditation works by bringing an effect from the level of Being to the mind. With the breath we bring this effect to the physical level as well.

Michael Fischman: How did this knowledge come about?

Sri Sri: The past several years, I have taught meditation and yoga to thousands of people all over the world. I noticed that there was something the people did not catch. They had very good experiences during meditation but on the level of the heart, joy and love did not seem to manifest and open up fully. When I began to give the Art of Living course and introduced people to Sudarshan Kriya, then there was a big difference. In a very short amount of time, people would open up.

Michael Fischman: How does the Sudarshan Kriya work?

Sri Sri: There is a rhythm in nature. Seasons come and go. In your own body, there is a rhythm too. You feel hungry at a certain time and sleepy at a certain time. The body has a particular rhythm. Life has a particular rhythm. Similarly, your breath also goes in a particular pattern. Your emotions move in a particular rhythm, as well as your thoughts. All these rhythms arise from your Being, which has its own rhythm. In Sudarshan Kriya we get into the rhythm of our Being and see how Being is permeating our emotions, our thoughts, our breath, and our bodies. Soon, every cell of the body becomes so alive and releases all the toxins and negative emotions it has stored from times past. Once again, we are able to smile from our hearts.

Michael Fischman: What effect does this practice have on relationships and the way we feel inside?

Sri Sri: However you try to hide what you feel, it definitely reflects on your face and in your actions. So, when you feel good, naturally your relationships will be good. Trying to work on the surface, or just the relationship aspect without feeling good deep inside doesn’t seem to work. People who are trying to be what they are not become unnatural and create much more tension and stress. That is why one must go deep into the source of one’s nature, one’s Being and come from there. You see, I don’t say that you will never get upset again in life. You may still get upset but the quality of your life will not be the same. You will not get so caught up in your emotions for long periods of time. People have found that after they do the Sudarshan Kriya, they are able to come back to themselves very quickly.

Michael Fischman: What is the true meaning of life?

Sri Sri: Ah . . . this you better find out for yourself. Don’t ask the meaning from me. It’s like asking me to chew your candy for you. It is not possible. Be with this question. I can tell you one thing, you are very fortunate that this question arises in your mind. One in a million people will get this question. It is a very sincere question. It means you have started your journey toward the light. Be with this question, and don’t be in such a hurry for a ready-made answer from somebody. Go deep into yourself and you will find out.

Sri Sri explains the Sudarshan Kriya

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His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

“I was already teaching meditation and yoga. But I felt there was something that was lacking. Though people do their spiritual practices, their life is in a sort of a compartment. They do their prayers, meditation and spiritual practices but when they come out in life, they are very different people. So, I was thinking how we can bridge this gap - between inner silence and outer expression of life. During a period of silence, the Sudarshan Kriya came like an inspiration. After I came out of the silence, I started teaching whatever i knew and people had great experiences."

"After kriya, many people feel so pure and so clear, so complete, because the consciousness, which was stuck in the matter, material, which is foreign to itself, got released from that and came back to its home.That is the sense of purity, feeling of purity."

"We need to do a cleansing process within ourselves. In sleep we get rid of fatigue, but the deeper stresses remain in our body. Sudarshan Kriya cleanses the system from the inside. The breath has a great secret to
offer."

Also, check out the below videos:

Origination of Sudarshan Kriya

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One of the 1st batch conducted by Guruji, where Sudarshan Kriya was taught, Shimoga, Karnataka.

Banks of the Bhadra river in Shimoga(Karnataka), India

In 2003-04, Guruji revisited Shimoga, the place where He got enlightened. Below are some of His timeless conversations.

Q: Guruji, How do you feel to be coming here(Shimoga) after 21 years?

Sri Sri: I don’t feel like I ever left this place. I used to sit facing the river and now I’m facing you.

Q: What was your experience here(Shimoga) ?

Sri Sri: You know when I came here 21 years back. I had already travelled around the world. I taught Yoga, Asanas, Meditation. But still I was concerned about how to make people live a happy life. After being in silence for 10 days,Knowledge of Sudarshan Kriya came to me. Nature knows what to give and when to give.When we started that time, the course used to begin early in the morning and would go till 10:30-11 PM. So some people would not turn up the next day. The rest would go and bring them back. I would keep silent and everybody would also keep silent. Then people started having beautiful experiences from the 2nd day. Our first course was here (Shimoga). Over a period of time I felt that this was a little too much for some people and so we split the course into Basic and Advance course. When I first came here 21 years back we were 70 of us here and now how many are we ?. ( there were thousands of people in the satsang ! )

Q: I know it is important for me to be here with you. But I have a little conflict as it takes me away from my family. Could you comment?

Sri Sri: You know when you are here and when you go deep and get rid of all the stresses, you are also helping your family out there. The good vibration that you produce in your system doesn’t just stay with you. Don’t think that your silence course is only benefiting you. You are being in silence, you are meditating - some of it goes to your family members as well. You may have noticed, some times you sit for mediation and nothing happens to you. And most of the meditation you know, the benefits of those meditations are going to people who have crossed the other side. So when you have to clear your debts you find balance not going up. Because debt is being cleared. So many times it happens.

There is an old saying “when you meditate the effect of it reaches to seven generations of the past and seven generations of the future.” So the genes with which you are connected u know affects all those seven generations the past and the future. That is a very common saying in India. People know it. So a portion of our meditation, merits of our meditation goes to our near and dear ones. So you don’t have to have a conflict. And when you are at home doing your job, don’t think it is not spiritual. It is also my job. If you are taking care of your family know that it is not just your family it is Guruji's family also. So the whole world belongs to me and every body is a part of my family. So if you are taking care of your family you should know you are doing a seva, a work which is a part of AOL. And when you are here, you should know whatever you are doing you are also helping your kith and kin.Where is the conflict?