The Department of Yoga at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham advances the science, philosophy, and practice of Yoga through a unique integration of traditional wisdom and modern research. Rooted in the teachings of Satguru Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), the department brings together Yogic sciences, contemplative practices, cognitive research, and community outreach to foster holistic well-being.
We offer evidence-based Yoga education, teacher training, interdisciplinary collaborations, and outreach initiatives that bring the transformative power of Yoga to diverse populations around the world. The department is guided by Amma’s vision of “Education for Life,” integrating classical Yogic knowledge with contemporary scientific approaches for the upliftment of individuals and society.
Amrita Yoga® is a school of Classical Yoga rooted in Amma’s vision of awareness, compassion, and selfless service. Developed under the guidance of Brahmacharini Shobha, Amrita Yoga® emphasizes embodied awareness, heart-centered intention, and integrated well-being. Programs include foundational training, retreats, workshops, youth programs, corporate sessions, and certified teacher training. Amrita Yoga® is offered across India and internationally in universities, schools, communities, and Amma’s centers worldwide.
Amma’s guidance forms the foundation of all Yoga programs at Amrita. Her message on the practice of Yoga highlights the importance of inner awareness, compassion, and balance as the basis for personal and social well-being.
To be a global leader in integrated Yogic education, research, and compassionate service, fostering inner transformation and societal well-being.
Brahmacharini Shobha
(Ms. Shobana Pillai)
Director, Amrita Yoga®
Assistant Professor, Amrita School of Spiritual & Cultural Studies
Head, Department of Yoga – Amritapuri Campus
Brahmacharini Hemaa
Program Manager & Intermediate, Instructor, Department of Yoga, Amritapuri
Brahmacharini Aswathy
Program Coordinator & Intermediate Instructor, Department of Yoga, Amritapuri
Workshops & Special Programs
Flagship Research Themes
Brahmacharini Shobha represented Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham at Yoga Mahotsav 2024 organized with the Ministry of AYUSH. The event brought together thousands for a large-scale celebration of Yogic practice and cultural harmony.
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Workshops, retreats, and teacher training delivered across Europe, USA, Australia, New Zealand, and India, reaching youth, women, colleges, underserved communities, and rehabilitation centers.
A collaborative initiative evaluating IAM-35 and Amrita Yoga practices on cognition, neural markers, and stress reduction. Conducted with AIMS Kochi and interdisciplinary cognitive science researchers.
This initiative delivers Yoga and IAM® meditation programs across correctional institutions in India, supporting emotional resilience, behavioral transformation, and rehabilitation.
Program Overview | About the Initiative
The Department of Yoga collaborates with distinguished professionals, medical experts, and academic researchers from leading global institutions. Their expertise in regulatory science, neurology, mental health, neuroscience, social sciences, and clinical practice strengthens the department’s interdisciplinary approach, evidence-based research, and international collaborations.
Pediatric Neurologist; Psychiatry; Independent Regulatory Consultant; Former FDA, USA
Dr. Mannheim brings extensive clinical experience in pediatric neurology and psychiatry, alongside deep expertise in regulatory science from his tenure at the U.S. FDA. He supports the department’s initiatives in integrative health, safety standards, and evidence-based Yoga research frameworks.
Medical Officer & Epidemiologist (Ret.), Former FDA, USA
Dr. Mosholder contributes decades of expertise in pharmacoepidemiology, psychopharmacology, antidepressant and ADHD medication safety, suicide risk evaluation, and public health analytics, enhancing interdisciplinary studies on Yoga, mental health, and well-being.
Director, VR NeuroCognition Lab, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology; CEO & Founder, NeuCogs Ltd., Israel
Prof. Reiner is a leading researcher in applied neuroscience, VR-based cognitive enhancement, and immersive learning technologies. Her work strengthens collaborative research on cognition, attention, and the neuroscientific dimensions of contemplative practices.
Person-Centered Counsellor & Psychotherapist; Trainer & Facilitator; Social Researcher, Australia
Dr. Birman is a social scientist and psychotherapist with expertise in health sociology, mental well-being, and community research. She contributes insight into psychosocial factors, contemplative practices, and holistic frameworks that complement Yoga-based wellness studies.
Obstetrician–Gynecologist & Surgeon; Reliant Medical Group, USA
Dr. Madariya brings clinical experience in obstetrics, gynecology, and women’s health, supporting collaborative initiatives in holistic care, preventive health, and Yoga-informed wellness programs for women across different life stages.
Department of Yoga,
Amrita School of Spiritual & Cultural Studies,
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham,
Amritapuri Campus
Email: info@amritayoga.com
Department of Yoga,
Amrita School of Spiritual & Cultural Studies,
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham,
Amritapuri Campus
Email: info@amritayoga.com
