Each year, The Minded Institute is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation. This year, however, we also take a moment to recognise a legacy that has shaped us all. It is with deep gratitude and profound respect that we announce that Dr. Robin Monro’s family has passed The Yoga Biomedical Trust (YBT) to Heather Mason, founder of The Minded Institute.
Founded in 1983, the Yoga Biomedical Trust has been a pioneering force in advancing the understanding, application, and education of yoga therapy within a biomedical context.
Heather reflects, “Robin was the person who gave me my start in yoga therapy, and to now be entrusted with continuing his legacy is incredibly meaningful to me. I am deeply grateful. Robin didn’t just help establish the field of yoga therapy—he ensured it was taken seriously, bringing a scientific, biomedical perspective to its efficacy, all while staying true to the roots of yoga. His work has had an immeasurable impact, and I am determined to uphold that.”
Heather’s first step in preserving this legacy is the launch of the Monro Awards. These awards will recognise individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the field of yoga therapy. To begin, three graduates of The Minded Institute will be recognised, with the recipients announced in late January. From 2025, the Monro Awards will be open to nominations, with three awards for Minded graduates and three for those in the wider field of yoga therapy. This important initiative will allow peers to nominate one another, with all nominations carefully reviewed.
