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.
_____________________
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.