New Delhi: More than two dozen studies at AIIMS‘s Centre for Integrative Medicine Research (CIMR) showed positive results regarding yoga and ayurveda protocols in treating multiple health conditions.
The conditions include coronary artery ailments, stroke rehabilitation, seizure disorders, vasovagal syncope, migraine, sleep disorders, diabetes and maternal health complications.
At the inaugural first international integrative medicine conference, held recently at the institute, Dr Gautam Sharma, cardiologist and founding professor in-charge of CIMR, discussed with TOI the significance of evidence-based validation in internationally recognised medical practices. He explained how the centre’s doctors conducted rigorous research trials to establish scientific evidence supporting their yoga techniques and ayurvedic medicines for specific conditions.
Dr Sharma noted that yoga’s accessibility, safety and straightforward nature provided an ideal foundation. The centre developed specific yoga modules for different health conditions, acknowledging that each situation required a unique approach. Their research produced 28 published papers, predominantly featuring yoga-based trials. They focused on areas where conventional medicine has limitations.
“The process involves collaboration with the physiology department and relevant specialty departments to understand how specific diseases or conditions manifest. They select techniques believed to reverse or minimise the disease’s impact,” Dr Sharma pointed out.
The module development involves consultation with yoga therapists and physicians, doctors and scientists, followed by national validation from at least 10 yoga experts before finalisation, he added. “This thorough approach is necessary because certain yoga techniques may not benefit hypertensive patients, while specific techniques prove helpful for individuals with insomnia. This systematic method guides their selection process,” he emphasised.
Dr Sharma said yoga demonstrated particular effectiveness in managing autonomic imbalances, which occurred when the autonomic nervous system, controlling involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion, malfunctioned. “Within the astanga framework, yoga encompasses more than physical postures. It begins with yamas and niyamas, establishing wholesome living guidelines, and includes essential breathing techniques, particularly pranayama, emphasising slow breathing patterns.”
The practice promotes a content, stress-free life through meditation, dhyan and controlled breathing exercises. Slow breathing particularly helps the autonomic nervous system, reducing sympathetic activity while increasing parasympathetic response. Combined with asanas as moderate exercise, this creates a balanced approach to wellness, integrating healthy lifestyle practices, stress management and regulated physical activity.
Nearly 400 registered participants, including international experts, academicians, researchers and practitioners, are attending the two-day Advances in Integrative Medicine (AIM) conference. The programme features workshops, presentations, lectures and discussions on evidence-based integrative medicine, emphasising collaboration between Ayush professionals and modern medical experts. It aims to enhance interdisciplinary dialogue, advance scientific innovation in integrative healthcare, and strengthen the connection between traditional medicine and modern research.