Care, Accept, Love, Meditate (CALM) — so goes the motto of the Indian School of Breathing. Bringing a contemporary and semi-classical combination of yoga, mind exercises and personality development courses to the masses of Chennai, this new-age breathing ‘school’ helps you listen to your inner voice.
The hustle and bustle of city life, at some point, can drain a person of his energy and stress levels can sometimes hit the roof. Whether you’re a student, working professional or even a homemaker, a calmer approach to de-stressing can do wonders.
ISB was founded in 2003 by Dr. Sukanya (Alternate Medicine). Since its inception, the Indian School of Breathing has been focusing on yoga, meditation and breathing techniques for individuals for a calm and relaxed mind. Breathing exercises and meditation can detoxify your system, enhance clarity in the things you do and instil confidence. Your body language and posture tells a lot about your character.
Dr. Sukanya, a psychology major, believes that a majority of the ailments that exist can be cured with the power of the mind. “There is nothing that a human being cannot do with his mind. Most of the illnesses are psychological and with the right lifestyle and exercises, one can overcome it. One doesn’t necessarily have to depend on modern medicine and machines,” she says.
A balance of mind, body and soul is necessary. Through these exercises, Dr. Sukanya says, one can connect to one’s soul. “Every individual perceives an asana differently. It is through this perception that one can reach inside of them to be alert and self aware.”
Yoga, Pranayama, Sujok accupressure, tai-chi, reiki, healing remedies and counselling are some of the main alternative medicine remedies that are offered here. Sleep deprivation is common among young professionals and students these days. There are exercises to improve sleep patterns and help activate the mind. A fresh, rejuvenated mind and body acts as a catalyst that improves one’s work efficiency. Expectant mothers also have the option of going for pre-natal yoga which benefits both the mother and child.
Apart from various meditation techniques, there are also programmes for kids to improve their personality, overcome certain fears and stammering. Mithila Rohra, one of the yoga teachers at ISB, stresses that this is a holistic approach and not simply limited to yogasanas. “There is a structured method to everything, from simple movements, communicating to determining and closing in on goals that a person needs to accomplish.”
There are a number of packages that different people can opt for — from regular classes and special package for women to personality development courses for kids from eight to 16 years and senior citizen packages.
Youngsters can also take one of the courses offered here to keep fit instead of hitting the gym. Now, celebrities from the West are also taking a leaf out of our books and have accepted yoga as part of their daily lives and workout regimen.
“While going to the gym and rigorous exercising does keep you fit, you are open to the risk of causing internal injuries and subjecting the body to extreme conditions. It is aggressive and mechanical,” Dr. Sukanya advises.
ISB recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and has expanded its operations to Ormes Road in Kilpauk. More information is available on its facebook page or contact 9841781471/9840645501.
