The Yoga Biomedical Trust (YBT) was founded in 1983 as a registered UK charity (no. 285265) to support the development of yoga as a holistic therapeutic approach to the treatment and prevention of medical conditions, and to promote positive health and wellbeing.
From its inception, the Trust occupied a unique position at the interface between yoga, clinical medicine, and complementary healthcare. Grounded in scientific understanding and informed by a broad knowledge of yogic traditions, its work helped demonstrate how yoga could be adapted therapeutically to meet specific health needs, while also supporting general wellbeing.
Under its leadership, the Yoga Biomedical Trust pioneered some of the earliest programmes of advanced yoga therapy training, clinical work, and research in the UK. These initiatives were developed through collaboration between experienced yoga practitioners and medical professionals of high standing, with the long-term aim of seeing yoga therapy recognised and integrated within modern healthcare systems, including the National Health Service.
The Trust was founded and directed by Robin Monro, PhD (1932–2024), a pioneering figure in the field of yoga therapy. Originally trained as a molecular biologist, Dr Monro left a highly promising scientific research career to dedicate his life to exploring and advancing the therapeutic application of yoga. His work laid critical foundations for the development of yoga therapy as a credible, evidence-informed discipline in the UK and beyond.
Following Dr Monro’s death in 2024, stewardship of the Yoga Biomedical Trust and this website has been entrusted to The Minded Institute, founded by Heather Mason, who was mentored by Dr Monro early in her professional career and worked closely with him over many years. This stewardship is held with deep respect for his legacy and a commitment to preserving the historical significance of the Trust, while signposting the continued evolution of yoga therapy within contemporary clinical and professional contexts.
For those seeking modern, evidence-based yoga therapy education, training, and resources, further information is available via The Minded Institute.
