BWY and SOAS Centre of Yoga Studies are joining forces to host a summit titled ‘Yoga in the Age of Overload’ on Saturday 1 November, 2025. This day-long event will be held both online and at the SOAS Gallery Lecture Theatre at SOAS University of London. The summit aims to bring together scholars and yoga practitioners to explore how the ancient practices of yoga and ayurveda can help individuals cope with the pressures of modern life.
Professor Ulrich Pagel, Chair of SOAS Centre of Yoga Studies, states, “We are examining the role of yoga and ayurveda in bringing balance to a world that is constantly bombarded with information and struggling with feelings of loneliness. This summit provides a platform for meaningful discussions between academic research and practical application, highlighting how ancient wisdom traditions can offer practical solutions to contemporary challenges.”
The summit will be opened by Julia Hobsbawm OBE, an award-winning entrepreneur and author, who will deliver a keynote speech on the impact of toxic work environments on physical wellbeing. Her presentation will also mark the 10th anniversary of her renowned book, ‘Fully Connected: Social Health in an Age of Overload’.
The event will also feature panel discussions with leading experts, including Dr Theo Wildcroft from the Open University, Amarjeet S Bhamra, lecturer in Indian Traditional Sciences, and Emeritus Professor Dominik Wujastyk, an expert in classical Indian society and polity. Dr Finnian Gerety will conclude the summit by sharing clinical research on his MANTRAMS project, which explores how mantra practice can support mental health and build emotional resilience.
Participants will also have the opportunity to take part in practice sessions led by experienced BWY tutors Rajesh David and Judy Hirsh Sampath. These sessions will focus on sound yoga and therapeutic yoga practices specifically designed to counteract the effects of digital overload and restore inner balance.
Diana O’Reilly, Chair of BWY, expresses her excitement about the collaboration with SOAS, stating, “It is fascinating to see modern research validating the benefits of yoga that practitioners have known for centuries. Our lineup of speakers brings evidence-based insights that showcase how these ancient practices can provide real, measurable benefits for individuals struggling with stress and overwhelm in today’s world.”
Attendees can join the summit either in person or online, with tickets priced at £75 and £45 respectively. To secure a spot, please visit the website. First-time visitors will need to register for a Free User account.
About BWY:
The British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) is a registered charity committed to sharing the transformative power and rich heritage of yoga through events and education. As the National Governing Body for Yoga in England and Wales, BWY serves over 5000 members and is supported by a dedicated volunteer network and a small central team.
About SOAS:
SOAS University of London prides itself on being the world’s university. The institution uses its expertise in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East to explore global issues and challenge perspectives. SOAS offers interdisciplinary programs taught by internationally recognized academics who are actively engaged in research and fieldwork that influences governments, industries, and communities worldwide. The SOAS Centre of Yoga Studies (CYS) is globally renowned as the leading hub for Yoga Studies and is home to the specialized MA in Yoga Studies program.
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