Program Coordinators

Dr. Bethany Bechtel and Stewart Thomas serve as program coordinators. In collaboration with researchers and staff at sVYASA Yoga University they have developed this unique program designed to meet the specific needs of health care professionals.
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Dr. Bethany Bechtel includes yoga practices in her work as an Acupuncture Physician in Gainesville, Florida. For over twenty years she has been involved in biomedical research and an active practice as an Acupuncture Physician. Recipient including two Fulbright Fellowships to India, research at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), and current research collaborations with the Vivekenanda Yoga Research Foundation and sVYASA University. Dr. Bechtel holds a Ph.D. in Biophysics from the University of Pennsylvania, has hosted collaborative research on yoga techniques at sVYASA and the University of Florida (UF), and holds a position at the Chemistry Department at UF. In addition she holds degrees in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, as well undergraduate majors in Molecular Biology and French Literature. She maintains her own medical practice at Harmony Point Acupuncture in Gainesville, Florida where she leads weekly yoga classes for her patients.

Stewart Thomas is Co-Director of the non-profit organization Florida's Eden and an independent artist and graphic designer. He brings long term experience of India, organizational skills and an interest in yoga and tai chi to this program.

Yoga is a powerful tool towards health that people can use for themselves. Bethany provides weekly classes for her acupuncture patients so that they have the chance to integrate yoga techniques into their daily lives. Yoga can also be used clinically for the treatment of ailments. Patients can then take these practices home with them in order to maintain wellness. It is our experience that the full integration of the various components of yoga are best learned in India. It is this experience that we hope to share with you and the reason why we are leading this group. In addition we have a true love of the people and places of India. During our stay we hope to offer you a glimpse of the vibrant culture of South India.