By Dr Karthik US
Consultant Urologist
SS Narayana Health Superspeciality Hospital
Davanagere
Each year on June 21, as the world rolls out its mats to celebrate International Yoga Day, I find myself reflecting not only as a doctor—but also as a student of yoga.
For most of my early career, I viewed yoga as something reserved for the spiritually inclined or those with time to spare. Between hospital rounds, emergency calls, and a growing practice, I dismissed the idea of slowing down—until my own body reminded me that I wasn’t invincible.
It was a phase of relentless back pain and mental fatigue that first nudged me toward yoga. I had tried physiotherapy and medication, but nothing addressed the deeper exhaustion I was carrying—physically, emotionally, and mentally. A friend suggested I try yoga—not just for the body, but for the breath and the mind.
I still remember my first session. It wasn’t just about stretching. It was about awareness. With each movement, I was asked to listen—to my breath, my thoughts, and the signals my body was quietly sending. It was humbling, yet healing.
Today, after several years of regular practice, I can say with confidence: yoga has transformed not only how I live, but how I heal.
As a physician, I now see yoga as one of the most powerful, side-effect-free tools we have—not just for chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and joint pain, but also for invisible battles like anxiety, stress, and burnout.
The science supports it too. Numerous studies show that yoga improves heart rate variability (a marker of stress resilience), reduces cortisol levels, boosts immunity, enhances sleep, and improves focus and mood. For patients recovering from illness, or for those simply wanting to age gracefully, yoga offers a path of gentleness and strength.
But here’s the best part: you don’t need to be flexible, fit, or spiritual to begin. You only need to show up. Start with five minutes a day. Try a few breathing exercises. Attend a beginner’s class. Let go of the idea of “perfect poses”—and instead focus on presence.
To all my fellow professionals caught in the whirlwind of deadlines and demands, and to every individual who thinks yoga is “not for them”—I offer this simple truth: Yoga doesn’t just add years to your life. It adds life to your years.
This International Yoga Day, I won’t just be recommending yoga as a doctor. I’ll be celebrating it as someone who has felt its quiet, consistent power—on the mat, in the hospital, and in life.
So, roll out your mat. Take a breath. Your body, and your future self, will thank you.
About the Author: Dr. Karthik U S is a Consultant Urologist at SS Narayana Health Superspeciality Centre, Davanagere. He holds an MBBS, MS in General Surgery, and DrNB in Urology from MPUH, Nadiad. With expertise in kidney stones, prostate disorders, uro-oncology, and minimally invasive surgeries, Dr. Karthik offers advanced and compassionate care. He is committed to delivering evidence-based urological treatment tailored to each patient’s needs with a focus on precision and empathy.
