The Science of Pranayama with Dr. Sundar

Breathe for a cause with Dr. Sundar

Brief Description

Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian is an associate professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), and the founder of the PranaScience Institute. Kripalu+2PranaScience -+2

He blends traditional yogic practices with rigorous scientific inquiry to explore how regulated breathing (pranayama) impacts human biology. His work notably includes the first published evidence linking yogic breathing practices to changes in salivary biomarkers — suggesting that breath-work may influence physiological systems. Yogaville - Satchidananda Ashram+1

Research Focus

• Investigating mechanisms of pranayama: how specific breathing practices affect stress, biomarkers, and well-being. PranaScience -+1
• Developing clinical tools and applications: for example, a mobile app for yogic breathing aimed at cancer survivors; tailored modules for aging populations, employees and those with chronic conditions. Yogaville - Satchidananda Ashram+1
• Disseminating practical methods: He has authored books and created programs with 37 pranayama exercises (traditional, modified, and novel), in multiple languages (English, Tamil, Hindi). Yogaville - Satchidananda Ashram+1

Why It Matters for You (and Yoga / Fitness)

Given your involvement with yoga studios and community fitness, Dr. Balasubramanian’s work has direct relevance:

• It provides scientific backing for breath‐work and yogic breathing — a powerful asset when teaching or promoting classes with strong mind-body components.
• His approach emphasises accessibility and adaptation (for older adults, those with health conditions) which aligns with inclusive fitness offerings.
• You can integrate his findings into your community messaging (e.g., “breathwork can reduce stress biomarkers”) to maybe enhance class value and member engagement.

If you like, I can locate a list of his most accessible studies or articles (for you or your community to reference) and summarise key takeaways you can use in your yoga-studio communications.