An International Guest Lecture was organized by the Department of Physical Education at MATS University to enhance students’ understanding of holistic fitness practices. The lecture was delivered by Dr. Krzysztof Stec, Assistant Professor from Jan Dlugosz University (UJD), Poland, along with Prof. Rajeev Choudhary, Professor and HOD of Physical Education, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University. The program was held at MATS University, Arang, Raipur (C.G.) on 07th April 2026.
The topic of the lecture was “Sūryanamaskāra: An Ancient, All-Inclusive Cross-Fitness Paradigm.” The session highlighted the comprehensive benefits and relevance of Suryanamaskara in modern fitness and lifestyle.
Dr. Stec elaborated on the scientific and traditional significance of Suryanamaskara, explaining that this ancient practice is deeply rooted in Indian culture and also supported by modern scientific perspectives. He emphasized that Suryanamaskara is not just a physical exercise, but a complete mind-body practice.
The lecture also focused on physical benefits, including improvement in strength, flexibility, and overall body endurance. Its positive impact on mental well-being, such as reducing stress, enhancing concentration, and promoting emotional balance, was also discussed.
The guest speakers presented Suryanamaskara as a holistic and scientific practice based on research in the field of yoga and health by Swami Kuvalayananda, Swami Satyananda, and B.K.S. Iyengar. They explained all stages of Suryanamaskara in detail, highlighting their relationship with the body’s biological structure, respiratory system, and mental balance.
The research demonstrated that Suryanamaskara is not merely a physical exercise, but an effective method to establish harmony between the body, mind, and prana (life force). The effects of fasting at different stages were also discussed scientifically, analyzing their impact on body detoxification, metabolism, and mental focus.
Practical benefits were highlighted, showing that regular practice enhances physical capacity, reduces mental stress, improves concentration, and promotes overall health.
Dr. Stec further noted that India’s yoga tradition is highly practical, with a profound effect on both the body and mind. He emphasized that this scientific and practical approach to yoga can serve as a powerful tool for global health improvement.
Additionally, the guest speakers encouraged students and faculty to adopt Suryanamaskara as a holistic cross-fitness practice, as it integrates stretching, strengthening, breathing, and mindfulness into a single routine.
The session was highly informative and interactive, with students and faculty actively participating and gaining both practical and theoretical knowledge.
The successful organization of this event was greatly supported by the university administration. Under the guidance, cooperation, and best wishes of Hon’ble Chancellor Shri Gajaraj Pagaria, Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) K. P. Yadav, Director General Shri Priyesh Pagaria, Registrar Shri Gokulanand Panda, Dean of Department Prof. Parvinder Hanspal, and Head of Department Dr. Mithilesh Kumar Singh, the program was successfully accomplished.
Thus, this International Guest Lecture was successfully conducted at MATS University, Arang, Raipur (C.G.) on 07th April 2026, with the guidance and support of the university administration and the Department of Physical Education.