Publications

Saravanakkumar S.B., Vithya V., Gopalan N.

This randomized controlled trial examined the impact of a 12-week yoga program on cortisol levels, heart rate variability, and psychological measures in 120 college students. The yoga group showed significant reductions in perceived stress (p < 0.01), improvements in HRV parameters, and enhanced emotional regulation compared to controls.

Saravanakkumar S.B.

This paper examines Patanjali's classification of mental modifications (citta vrittis) through the lens of modern cognitive psychology. It argues that the five vrittis—valid cognition, misconception, conceptualization, sleep, and memory—correspond to distinct cognitive processes and that their regulation through yoga practice offers a comprehensive framework for mental training and wellbeing.

Saravanakkumar S.B., Sivakami N., Gopalan N.

This 6-month RCT evaluated the efficacy of yoga therapy versus standard physiotherapy for chronic low back pain in 90 participants. The yoga group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in pain intensity (VAS scores), functional disability (ODI), and quality of life (SF-36) at 3- and 6-month follow-ups, with effect sizes ranging from medium to large.

Saravanakkumar S.B., Vithya V.

This interdisciplinary paper explores how Patanjali's ethical principles (yamas and niyamas) can inform the development of ethical frameworks for artificial intelligence. We propose specific mappings between yogic ethics and AI ethics challenges, suggesting that concepts like ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), and aparigraha (non-possessiveness) offer valuable guidance for AI development and deployment.

Gopalan N., Saravanakkumar S.B., Vithya V.

This meta-analysis of 32 RCTs (n=2,450) examined yoga's effects on cardiovascular risk factors. Yoga practice was associated with significant reductions in systolic BP (-5.2 mmHg), diastolic BP (-3.7 mmHg), LDL cholesterol (-8.4 mg/dL), and improvements in heart rate variability. Effects were more pronounced in studies with longer intervention durations (>12 weeks) and supervised sessions.

Vithya V., Saravanakkumar S.B., Gopalan N.

EEG recordings from 25 advanced yoga practitioners during meditation showed increased theta and alpha power, particularly in frontal and parietal regions, compared to controls. These findings suggest enhanced attentional control and reduced mind-wandering in experienced meditators, supporting the neuroplastic effects of long-term yoga and meditation practice.

Saravanakkumar S.B.

This keynote address explored how core yogic concepts—including the eight limbs of Patanjali, the Bhagavad Gita's teachings on selfless action, and the Upanishadic understanding of consciousness—offer practical guidance for addressing contemporary issues such as climate change, social inequality, mental health crises, and technological disruption.