IIM INDORE STUDY | Focused On 64 Mid-Level Managers, Divided Into Two Groups

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) offers a low-risk, high-impact approach to enhancing employee well-being and workplace productivity, according to a study co-investigated by IIM Indore.

The research, led by Prof Raina Chhajer, explores how SKY, a unique breathwork practice, can serve as a powerful workplace intervention to address stress and promote holistic health. Yoga, an ancient Indian discipline, has gained global popularity for fostering balance in mind, body, and spirit.

As stress levels rise in modern workplaces, organisations like Microsoft, Apple, and Nike have embraced mindfulness programmes to combat employee burnout. Pranayama, a controlled breathing technique central to yoga, is widely recognissed for its ability to enhance mental focus and respiratory efficiency.

At the forefront of these practices, SKY is developed by the Art of Living Foundation. Combining rhythmic breathing with meditation, SKY is designed to detoxify the body and mind, enhance creativity, and promote emotional well-being.

The study focused on 64 mid-level managers. Participants were divided into two groups: 33 in the SKY group and 31 in a control group. Led by Prof Chhajer, the SKY group attended a three-day retreat featuring guided meditation, yoga asanas, and SKY breathwork, while the control group received no intervention.

Findings demonstrated that SKY significantly improved health, emotional resilience, and workplace flourishing in the intervention group. The research underscores SKY's effectiveness as a scalable wellness solution, offering organisations a proactive approach to employee well-being and productivity.