Yoga, Meditation and Cardiac Health: Theory and Practice

In October 2025, The India Center, in collaboration with Registered Student Organization International Medical Outreach, organized an engaging session on Yoga, Meditation, and Cardiac Health: Theory and Practice featuring Milind Dhond, M.D., a cardiologist and researcher in integrative health. The event focused on exploring the intersection of traditional mind-body practices, such as yoga, which originated in India, and modern cardiovascular care.

Drawing on both clinical insight and research, Dr. Dhond discussed the measurable benefits of yoga and meditation for heart health, including stress reduction, improved autonomic balance, and overall cardiovascular resilience. He emphasized how these approaches can complement conventional medical treatments and play a role in preventive care.

The session also included a practical component, with participants guided through breathing and meditation techniques that reinforced the connection between theory and practice. Attendees valued the opportunity to learn tools they can apply in their daily lives.

This program also built on International Medical Outreach’s experiential learning trips to India, where students have been exposed firsthand to integrative health practices. The organization is planning its third trip to India over winter break, further expanding these global learning opportunities.

By bringing these perspectives to campus, the collaboration highlighted the value of global learning experiences and reinforced The India Center’s commitment to fostering dialogue at the intersection of medicine, culture, and community engagement.

“This program reflects our goal of bringing global perspectives into meaningful conversation with academic learning at UCF. By connecting students’ experiences in India with evidence-based discussions on integrative health, we’re creating space for more holistic informed approaches to medicine.”
— Leila Chacko, Assistant Director, The India Center