BAPS Charities UK recently completed its inaugural 12-week wellNESS programme, a community-based initiative aimed at addressing health disparities among British South Asians, who face elevated risks of diabetes, heart disease, and mental health challenges.
Rooted in lifestyle medicine and inspired by the spiritual guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the programme was held at Neasden Temple, London, integrating science, culture, and spirituality in a trusted environment.
A Holistic Model: N.E.S.S.
The programme focused on four key lifestyle pillars:
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Nutrition: Participants learned about macro- and micronutrients through cooking demonstrations and meal-planning aligned with a sattvic vegetarian diet.
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Exercise: Weekly sessions included group workouts, yoga, and strategies for managing pain and incorporating movement into daily routines.
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Sleep: Emphasis was placed on mindful bedtime routines and enhancing focus, including the role of cheshta.
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Stress: Emotional well-being was supported through mindfulness, satsang practices, and peer support.
Delivered by a dedicated team of volunteer healthcare professionals – including GPs, psychiatrists, psychologists, physiotherapists, and nutritionists – the programme welcomed 41 participants aged 34 to 61, offering interactive, in-person education tailored to cultural and spiritual values.
Faith as a Foundation
Spirituality played a central role in promoting health. Participants explored how faith and Satsang can support well-being, for example, by reciting shlokas before eating to encourage mindful eating, following spiritual disciplines (niyam dharma), and making small, consistent habit changes inspired by the guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj.
Measured Impact
Pre- and post-programme assessments revealed significant improvements:
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Physical health: Reductions in cholesterol, HbA1C (blood glucose), weight, waist circumference, body fat, blood pressure, and resting heart rate
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Mental well-being: Increased openness around emotional health and reduced symptoms of depression
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Lifestyle habits: Healthier eating, improved hydration, and increased physical activity with better strength, flexibility, and balance
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Community connection: Stronger social bonds and peer support
Some of these findings were also presented between 18 to 20 September 2025 at the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine Conference in Brighton.
Participant Reflections
Feedback from the participants highlighted the programme’s cultural relevance and transformative impact. Nimisha Patel shared, “When I’ve done other health programmes, it’s been quite difficult to follow and to stay consistent because the suggestions they give don’t really align with our values and our diet. But from the BAPS wellNESS programme, I’ve found a community that I didn’t know I was missing. I feel like I have gained not only spiritual health from coming to the Mandir, but it has helped me focus on my physical and my mental health as well.”
Others added: “I have chronic neuropathy in both legs. From Day 1, I was encouraged to exercise. Now, just 10–15 minutes of daily yoga has helped me regain my balance. I have tried many other things over the years, but nothing really worked. I wish we had started wellNESS 10-15 years ago; I would be in much better health today.”
“This programme changed my well-being. Start this with children early – it’ll prevent future health issues.”
“The content was digestible and motivating, which has helped me stay committed to my fitness goals.”
“After months of depression, I followed advice from the sessions and felt better – enough to book a hair appointment after six months!”
“The team have done a fantastic job with this programme, and so much effort and thinking have gone into this. I would recommend it to everyone.”
Looking Ahead
The success of this pilot demonstrates the power of a community-driven, culturally sensitive approach to long-term health. By combining evidence-based education with the strength of Satsang, BAPS Charities plans to expand the wellNESS programme to other mandirs and communities, inspiring healthier, more balanced lives.