Yoga, as any other alternate system will benefit from a scientific approach to gain insight into its different dimensions without having to compromise on its basic structure and values. This calls for a rigorous attempt to unravel and understand the role of yoga in therapy or health promotion using a scientific model that can incorporate the different dimensions of the system. Placing and understanding yoga in the light of science in such a way that it reflects the entire spectrum of human life is the challenge of any meaningful study. Research efforts at Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram (KYM) are based on this new paradigm that today modern science has begun to recognize and accept.

KYM's research wing, which is recognized as a Research Institute by the Indian Government, conducts detailed research on yoga and its application to suit various needs. The aim of this department is to evaluate systematically and scientifically the role of yoga, and to evolve research based models for therapy that underpin the holistic and comprehensive nature of yoga.

• It is a dynamic, application oriented approach that is individual based and not condition based.

• The conceptualization of yoga is much broader than it is commonly assumed, encompassing all possible dimensions of human existence: physical health, work life, family-relationships, food and lifestyle habits, spiritual orientations etc.,

• It employs all possible tools, conventional and otherwise: asana, pranayama, meditation, chanting, counseling, group sessions, life style modifications, etc. The quality of the relationship between the teacher and the student is the essential ingredient for success in the intervention.

• Variables studied cover a wide range: biomedical assessments relevant to particular conditions, psychological and cognitive parameters, intervention related factors such as flexibility, teacher factor, etc. Both objective and subjective measures are used.

• Quantitative and qualitative methodologies are harnessed: using instruments, dialogues, observation, participation, etc., rather than confining to mere scientific or intellectual enquiry.

• The objective is not to "prove" yoga but to enhance clarity of knowledge that is focused on the application value rather than pure research that is theoretically based.

Many of these studies are exploratory in nature. Studies on application of yoga for children who are mentally challenged were pioneering efforts in this field. These studies have been instrumental in making yoga a part of the regular curriculum for special educators throughout the country.

Some of these studies are structured, while others are need-based. The samples for most of the studies have often been drawn out of the KYM data bank. Hence the lack of control groups for comparison. Some studies have had high drop-out rate. Inability to attend sessions on regular basis or non-compliance in practice are common problems in yoga. Therefore at the end of the project, clear application of statistical principles could not be carried out for want of adequate sample size.

Effectiveness of yoga training has been found to be highly individualized, not everybody responds to training the same way. So, no standardized modules for therapy can be employed.