In 1997, we launched a research project focused on determining the effect of lifestyle changes - specifically a vegetarian wholesome diet, moderate aerobic exercise and stress control by Rajyoga meditation.

The project was co-partnered by the Defense Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences and the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, and sponsored by the Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy. Other collaborating medical institutes were the J J Group of Hospitals & Grant Medical College (Mumbai), U N Mehta Institute of Cardiology (Ahmedabad), G B Pant Hospital (Delhi), V S Hospital (Ahmedabad) and Care Hospital (Hyderabad).

We invited patients suffering from coronary artery blockages to Abu for one-week sessions at intervals of six months. Patients were introduced to lifestyle changes, and their blood test and physiological parameters and the extent of reversal of atherosclerosis (blocked arteries) was monitored during their stay. They were encouraged to keep up the meditation practice back home.

Over 500 patients volunteered to participate in this research. The data collected over five years was analyzed to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment as a permanent cure for cardiac patients. The positive research results have resulted in our keeping up with our coronary artery disease programme.