Breath For a Cause with Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian

Join us at MLC for a transformative weekend with Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian, an internationally recognized leader in breathwork research and practice, as he leads two workshops: The Science of Pranayama and Chanting is Pranayama.

These sessions blend ancient yogic wisdom with modern science, offering both practical techniques and insight into the healing power of breath and sound. This special weekend also supports the creation of the Thirumoolar Tamil Chair for Integrative Therapies at MUSC’s Hollings Cancer Center, a permanent research position dedicated to studying yogic breathing and its applications in health and healing.

Proceeds from the event will go directly to this initiative, with matching funds maximizing the impact of your participation.

Dates:

November 8-9, 2025

2pm - 4 pm

Saturday, November 8

Science of Pranayama workshop

Delve into the science of breath with this unique Pranayama workshop. While Pranayama is gaining recognition for its positive impact on mental well-being, robust scientific research remains limited. Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian bridges this gap with pioneering research, including studies on salivary biomarkers and explorations of the ancient Siddha tradition. This workshop combines ancient wisdom with modern scientific insights derived from Dr. Balasubramanian's firsthand research. Participants will:

· Examine key excerpts from ancient Pranayama literature.

· Engage in practical sessions featuring both traditional Pranayama practices and innovative techniques developed by Dr. Balasubramanian.

· Gain a deeper understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying Pranayama's effects.

· Discover the clinical and social applications of Pranayama for various populations.

Sunday, November 9

Chanting IS Pranayama workshop

Explore the powerful synergy of breath and sound with this unique workshop on chanting and kirtan. Combining regulated breathing with vocalization, these practices are integral to the yogic tradition. Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian, a pioneer in Pranayama research (including studies on salivary biomarkers) and an expert on the ancient Siddha tradition, brings a unique perspective to this workshop. Drawing from his firsthand research and published work on the Thirumanthiram of Saint Thirumoolar, this workshop blends ancient wisdom with modern science. Participants will:

· Explore ancient texts on chanting.

· Practice key chanting methods from the Pranayama tradition and innovative techniques developed by Dr. Balasubramanian.

· Understand the biological mechanisms of chanting.

· Learn about the clinical and social applications of chanting.

Fee:

1 day: $45

Both days: $75

Note: We accept cancellations up to 30 days prior to the workshop and you will receive full refund minus 10% of the original workshop fee. No refunds are available for cancellations within 30 days of the workshop.

Bio:

Dr. Sundar Balasubramanian is a leading researcher in cancer biology and yoga, specializing in the application of breathing exercises (Pranayama) for improved health. He holds an Associate Professor position in the Department of Radiation Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina and is the founder and director of the PranaScience Institute. He is the Yoga Specialist at the MUSC Health & Wellness Institute.

Dr. Balasubramanian's groundbreaking research has established the first scientific link between salivary biomarkers and Yogic breathing. His ongoing studies, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), explore the potential of breathing practices to enhance well-being in various health conditions. These studies include the development and testing of a Yogic breathing app for cancer survivors, the use of gentle yoga and pranayama for healthy aging, and the creation of a web portal dedicated to Yogic breathing education.

Dr. Balasubramanian's dedication extends beyond research. He has created practical tools to improve Yogic breathing practices for a variety of populations, including employees seeking wellness improvement, cancer survivors, aging individuals, and those with scleroderma.

In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Dr. Balasubramanian was named one of the world's top 5 breathwork experts by Mr.Feelgood magazine in 2023.

A prolific author and speaker, Dr. Balasubramanian shares his knowledge through various mediums

Dr. Balasubramanian is a renowned author with six books, contributions to several book chapters, and several scientific publications to his credit. His influential works include "PranaScience: Decoding Yoga Breathing," "Mind Your Breathing: The Yogi's Handbook with 37 Pranayama Exercises" (available in Tamil, English, and Hindi), and "Breathe a Little Better: One Pranayama a Week." He also incorporates chanting as a tool for breathwork practice, offering audio albums like "Chanting Is Pranayama," "Kandhar Anubhoothi," and "Thirukkural Maraimozhi."

Dr. Balasubramanian's background is deeply rooted in the traditional practices of Yoga and Tamil Siddha medicine from his upbringing in Tamil Nadu, India. He actively shares his expertise through workshops, training programs, and lectures on the scientific underpinnings of Pranayama around the globe.

Dr. Balasubramanian holds prestigious certifications in the field of yoga therapy. He is a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) and the Integral Yoga Teachers Association (IYTA), and he is a certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT). He is also a Yoga Alliance Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 500), and his courses are accredited for Yoga Alliance Continuing Education credit hours. His impactful TEDx talk has garnered over 1.1 million views.

TEDx Talks:

You can read more about this initiative here:

https://hollingscancercenter.musc.edu/news/archive/2025/02/18/tamil-chair-inc-pledges-1--and-half-million-to-establish-endowed-chair-at-hollings-cancer-center

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