Why in news?
As part of prison reform, jails in Chhattisgarh began offering yoga and Sudarshan Kriya sessions to inmates. The programme aims to reduce stress, improve mental health and turn prisons into places of rehabilitation rather than punishment alone.
What are Yoga and Sudarshan Kriya?
Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that combines physical postures, breathing exercises and meditation to promote holistic well‑being. Sudarshan Kriya is a rhythmic breathing technique taught by the Art of Living Foundation. It involves cycles of slow and rapid breaths, which practitioners believe can calm the mind and release stress.
Benefits for inmates
- Psychological healing: Regular practice can reduce anxiety, depression and aggression, helping inmates cope with confinement.
- Self‑control: Yoga and controlled breathing improve emotional regulation and may decrease instances of violence inside prisons.
- Rehabilitation: Teaching life skills and fostering self‑discipline can prepare inmates for reintegration into society.
Significance
The initiative highlights a shift toward reformative justice. It recognises prisoners as human beings deserving of mental and physical health services. Similar programmes elsewhere have shown drops in recidivism and better adjustment after release.