Abstract

One of the six major philosophical systems of Indian philosophy, Yoga represent a tradition of theory and practice. As the philosophy of Yoga has been applied to healthy living strategies for people with various disease conditions, no Yoga programs have yet been applied to the condition of HIV/AIDS. The aim of this project is to demonstrate how the philosophy of Yoga applies to healthy living for a person living with HIV/AIDS. On a philosophical level, the project represents the purpose of The California Institute of Integral Studies that values personal experience as an essential component of philosophical study along with the academic methods of tutorial, research and writing. ;After Part One that covers the philosophy of Yoga and the history of HIV/AIDS, an applied program for the person with HIV/AIDS follows in Part Two. The program aims to show the public how a Yoga lifestyle program addresses the health condition of HIV/AIDS. ;The dissertation begins discussing the History and Philosophy of Yoga and includes a survey of Classical Yoga schools based in the USA. Chapter Two studies The Yoga Institute of Bombay, India that offers numerous Yoga and Health programs. The discussion of HIV/AIDS occurs in Chapter Three along with an overview of the philosophy of natural healing. Chapter Four applies the Yoga's theory to the HIV/AIDS situation. Chapter Five reviews the applied Yoga program for HIV/AIDS covering psychology, exercise, psycho-physical practices, meditation, prayer, nutrition, group support, hobby which each support the Yoga's overall lifestyle approach to health and well-being