Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL) organized a comprehensive Faculty Yoga Workshop from 19 to 27 June 2025 at the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus. The 9-day workshop was curated for faculty members from various campuses of the Institute, offering both theoretical insights and practical experience in Yoga. The workshop promoted holistic well-being and reinforcing the integral education model that combines the body, mind, and spirit.

A total of 27 participants took part in the 27 sessions (36 hours) conducted over 9 days. The workshop saw enthusiastic participation from Physical Education Directors across all SSSIHL campuses, Physical Education teachers from Sri Sathya Sai Schools, and teaching and non-teaching staff from SSSIHL and Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust (SSSCT).

The workshop was structured into three daily segments:

Morning Session (6:00 – 7:30 AM)

The morning session focused on practical training through – traditional Hatha Yoga asanas, Surya Namaskara variations, Pranayama (Nadi Shuddhi, Kapalabhati, Bhramari) and Yoga Nidra and guided relaxation.

Evening session (5:00 – 6:30 PM)

The evening session saw a total of 18 interactive sessions, including, lecture-demonstrations, hands-on workshops and expert talks covering:

• Yogic Anatomy & Physiology
• Yoga Philosophy: Patanjali Yoga Sutras & Bhagavad Gita Insights
• Yoga for Sports Performance & Muscle Recovery
• Asana Alignment and Common Corrections
• Mental Wellness & Stress Management through Yoga
• Nutrition & Lifestyle for Yogic Practice
• Designing Yoga Modules for Institutions
• Role of Yoga in Preventing Lifestyle Disorders
• Special Talk: Yoga & Spirituality- Commemorating International Day of Yoga (21 June)
• Yoga for Flexibility & Core Strength
• Yoga for Recovery & Rehabilitation
• Developing Age-Appropriate Yoga Routines
• Integrating Yoga into the Physical Education Curriculum
• Teaching Methodology & Demonstration Practice
• Yoga Games & Group Activities
• Assessment Tools for Monitoring Progress
• Personalizing Yoga Plans for Students & Faculty
• Group Preparation for Yoga Day Demonstration

Final session (8:00 – 8:45 PM)

The final session included daily guided meditation, reflective journaling, and group sharing, with practices such as: Trataka, Omkara Chanting and Mindful Silence.

Special Highlights

International Day of Yoga – 21 June 2025

A special commemorative session was held in Prasanthi Nilayam on 21 June to mark the International Day of Yoga, which included a joint Yoga demonstration and practice.

Valedictory Ceremony – 27 June 2025

The closing ceremony on 27 June featured group reflection and sharing, feedback and learnings, followed by a Valedictory Address by Yogathilakam Prof. Dr. Meena Ramanathan, Professor of Yoga Therapy and Principal, School of Yoga Therapy, ISCM, SBV, Pondicherry on the topic “Salutogenesis and Spirituality” and distribution of certificates to all participants.

Key Outcomes

• Holistic Well-being: Renewed sense of balance, clarity, and vitality
• Pedagogical Impact: Enhanced readiness to integrate yoga into curricula
• Spiritual Enrichment: Deepened experiential understanding of yoga’s spiritual dimension

Resource Persons

The sessions were conducted by experienced yoga practitioners and academicians specializing in Yoga philosophy, including: Prof. Dr. Meena Ramanathan, Sri Vadivu krishna S, Dr. Naveen kumar G, Sri Vivekananda SS, Sri Narayana Reddy P, Dr. Gopi Krishna M, Sree Swathee M, Sri Rajendra Prasad, Sri Rahul Batra, and Sri Satya Sai Mudigonda.

A special note of appreciation to Sri Satya Sai Mudigonda, who served as the Workshop Coordinator, ensuring the smooth and impactful execution of all sessions

Conclusion

The Faculty Yoga Workshop served as a transformative journey for all involved—strengthening personal practice, professional skills, and the shared resolve to uphold the values of integrative, spiritually grounded education at SSSIHL.