Global authority in mental health, Ishan Shivanand

The revolution in digital transformation is uproaring news today.

Businesses are under added pressure to leverage Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, adapt to low-code platforms, increase automation, and more to deliver value to their customers.

But with tech giants continuing to enhance algorithms and digital systems for the world to follow, where is the line drawn for end users, i.e. the people?

It’s known that the COVID-19 pandemic ushered a sudden shift to tech.

With the entire world getting settled where stuck, people moved dramatically towards online platforms – we were witness to the advancing social media features, augmented and virtual reality, digital economy, etc. Any possible problem faced during the lockdown was being addressed by an app.

However, due to no regulatory management of these technological advancements, they happened at the cost of our mental health – including that of our families, children and loved ones.

Multiple research studies form testimonies to the stark rise in the rates of distress, burnout, anxiety, depression and insomnia due to social isolation, travel restrictions, fear of infection, and sheer uncertainty.

Meditation program by Shiv Yog Master Acharya Ishan Shivanand in Gurugram, India

Since ancient times, Indian yogis and revered masters have been known for their indelible contributions to healthcare and well-being – through their profound scientific wisdom, self-discipline, and mastery over the mind and subtle bodies.

Delving into the mysteries of life and existence, they have paved the way for yoga as a comprehensive approach to integrated healthcare and total well-being.

One such learned authority in mental health is Ishan Shivanand, Acharya at Shiv Yog – a spiritual institution based on the science of “union with the self”.

Raised and trained in Indian monasteries by his father and enlightened mentor, Dr Avdhoot Shivanand, Ishan Shivanand is a globally recognised mental health researcher and professor with expertise in non-pharmaceutical meditative modalities.

Ishan Shivanand leading Mental Resilience Training at Princeton University, New Jersey

During the pandemic, observing the upsurge of mental health disorders among the global population, Ishan Shivanand designed progressive meditative protocols based on Indian Knowledge Systems for people stuck in lockdowns.

The protocols, derived from the ancient yogic wisdom and healing sciences of India, consisted of breathwork and disease-preventive yogic techniques, including cognitive and emotional stimulation.

Naming the protocols Yoga of Immortals (YOI), he released these modalities in audio-visual format through a mobile app called Shiv Yog Play App for regular practice.

The modalities were practised by thousands of practitioners on a daily basis, who reported reduced stress levels and improved quality of life.

To assess the efficacy of the protocols in anxiety, depression and insomnia among healthcare workers, Asian and global populations, and athletes, he organised a research team with US-based doctors, clinicians and statisticians to lead international research.

With groundbreaking series of research which got published in leading international medical journals, a remarkable 72-82% reduction in insomnia, anxiety, depression, and Urinary Incontinence was observed among test participants, with a 77% increase in quality of life, within a few weeks of consistent Yoga of Immortals practice.

The research surveys also noted the participation of over 10,000 people, a considerable involvement compared to similar research studies.

During the pandemic, Ishan Shivanand also brought together thousands of seekers through Facebook Live to lead Nithya Prarthana (Night Prayer), a 10-Day series of theological prayers and chantings directed towards global peace and upliftment of universal consciousness.

The seekers shared their experiences of developing deep internal peace, harmony and balance within their own state of being during the crisis.

Currently, Ishan’s Yoga of Immortals programs help build mental resilience among youth, healthcare workers, elite competitive athletes, military personnel and veterans. He has also partnered with Government, medical, and corporate institutions in India, the US and Mauritius – including Rutgers University, Mayo Clinic, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bangalore, Bharati Vidyapeeth (DTU) Medical College etc.

The published medical journals on the efficacy of Yoga of Immortals can be reviewed at Frontiers (Digital Mental Health), Annals of Medical Research and Practice, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Frontiers (Mood Disorders), Gold Journal (Female Urology), American Urological Association and Preprints.

Connect with Ishan Shivanand on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and Website.

Disclaimer: Content Produced by Vanyashree Chaudhary