Sudarshan Kriya and related practices as taught in the AOL courses have been the subject of medical research and scientific study since 1995. Independent studies suggest that these techniques are effective in increasing lung capacity, reducing the blood plasma levels of cortisol (the "stress hormone") and lactate (a chemical in the blood that is also associated with stress), alleviating depression, decreasing serum total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (risk factors for cardiovascular disease), as well as increasing HDL cholesterol (‘good’ cholesterol), changing EEG (‘brain waves’) patterns indicative of relaxed alertness, to name a few of the intriguing findings. AOL promotes timely and scholarly investigation of the Sudarshan Kriya and related practices as they relate to physical, social, and emotional well-being of the individual. Research collaborations and suggestions from interested parties are welcome.		Several expanded studies are currently underway, investigating the effects of these techniques on cardiovascular health, breast cancer, HIV infection, and psychosocial wellbeing. Click here for a summary of research on AOL practices, ‘The Science of Breath Research Summary’. If you have any questions, or would like additional information about medical studies, please contact the AOL International Research Committee at European Centre: North American Centre: