SOAS University of London and the British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) recently hosted a summit on Saturday 2 November, bringing together experts to discuss the impact of yoga on mental health and prison reform.
The event, which was live-streamed, featured sessions from leading researchers and yoga practitioners. Recordings of the event are now available for purchase on the BWY website for £40.
Dr Sat Bir Singh Khalsa, a researcher from Harvard Medical School, presented his latest findings on the benefits of yoga for mental health. He emphasized its effectiveness in managing insomnia, generalised anxiety disorder, and PTSD.
Professor Rosie Meek from Royal Holloway University and Rose Parkes from the Institute of Law in Jersey discussed the role of yoga in prison reform. Meek, who is set to publish a review on yoga and meditation in early 2025, highlighted the practice’s ability to improve sleep and provide a sense of autonomy for inmates.
Dr Umā Dinsmore-Tuli, founder of the Yoga Nidra Network, shared insights on Yoga Nidra (yogi sleep) and how its commercialization has strayed from its original purpose. Carola Chiarpenello from King’s College London presented her research on Yoga Nidra’s neurological effects and called for better research structures.
Attendees were also able to participate in yoga sessions led by teachers Ranju Roy and Jo Bogacz.
Diana O’Reilly, Chair of BWY, expressed the organization’s goal of making yoga accessible to all and its potential as a tool for individual wellness and community health.
Professor Ulrich Pagel, Chair of SOAS Centre of Yoga Studies, highlighted the university’s dedication to studying yoga traditions and promoting its cultural and therapeutic dimensions.
To access the recordings of the event, individuals can visit the BWY website and create a free account. The recordings can be accessed through the event in the user’s dashboard calendar.
The British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) is a registered charity committed to sharing the transformative power and heritage of yoga through events and education. As the National Governing Body for Yoga, BWY serves over 5000 members and is supported by a network of 100 local volunteers and a small central team.
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