Dr H.R. Nagendra was an Indian yoga teacher and researcher dedicated his life to studying and practising yoga. Born in 1943, Dr Nagendra grew up in a family that valued education. He went on to study engineering and later became a professor, but he always retained his passion for yoga and spirituality. Dr HR Nagendra has a PhD in mechanical engineering. He did his post-doctoral research fellowship at British Columbia University, Canada, in 1970 and went to NASA in 1971. He is also a sought-after speaker and was invited to speak at conferences and universities worldwide.
Founder of SVYASA- a Yoga University
He is the founder of Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana, Bengaluru. Presently, he is the Chancellor of Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana, a Yoga University in Bangalore. The SVYASA university offers various courses on Yoga and allied sciences.
HR Nagendra-a pioneer in Yoga research
He has published 30 Research Papers in Engineering and more than 120 research papers on Yoga. He has authored and co-authored 40 books on Yoga. He has delivered keynote addresses at over 60 national and international conferences.
HR Nagendra’s specialisation
Dr Nagendra’s speciality was in the area of yoga research, and he believed that practising yoga was the key to better physical and mental health. He conducted extensive research on the physiological effects of yoga and demonstrated the effectiveness of yoga in treating various health issues, including stress, anxiety, and chronic pain.
HR Nagendra’s publications
Dr Nagendra was the author of several books, including “Yoga for depression”, “Yoga Sagara Saram,” and “Yoga Therapy: A Scientific Approach.” These books have been widely read and are considered to be authoritative works on the subject of yoga research. He is also the editor-in-chief of the prestigious Yoga journal IJOY and the monthly magazine Yoga Sudha.
HR Nagendra awards
Dr Nagendra was honoured with several awards throughout his life, including the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, and the National Merit Award, which recognised his contributions to the field of yoga research. He received several awards for his lifetime achievement in the field of yoga, including the Vachaspati Title by the Hon’ble President in 2018.
Dr Nagendra’s Legacy
Dr Nagendra’s legacy inspires and guides yoga practitioners and researchers worldwide. The International Yoga and the Vivekananda Yoga Research Foundation continue to offer programs and workshops on yoga, and his teachings continue to guide those seeking to deepen their spiritual practice and achieve greater well-being.
Conclusion
Dr H.R. Nagendra is a revered yoga teacher and researcher dedicated his life to studying and practising yoga. He is a pioneering figure in yoga research and a respected author and speaker. His legacy inspires and guides those seeking to deepen their spiritual practice and achieve greater well-being.
