our history
the first ICYAS campus – Toronto, canada
The International Centre for Yogic Arts and Sciences (ICYAS) first opened its doors in Toronto in the early 2000s as a dedicated school for academic study, in-depth practice, full certification, and community. From the beginning, ICYAS offered comprehensive programs in a variety of interdisciplinary yogic arts. Students came from many countries to study in Toronto, seeking rigorous and extensive training that would qualify them as educators and professional practitioners able to work safely and credibly anywhere in the world. These teachings were also offered in selected locations internationally during the early years, marking a significant advancement in the academic presentation of yogic education.
School of Yoga Therapy and Natural Medicine
As enrollment increased, the Toronto location expanded into the School of Yoga Therapy and Natural Medicine. The programs grew in scope and depth, advancing academic and therapeutic study and training specialists and experts in yoga education and healing. The school became a respected presence in both local and international communities, recognized for its disciplined curriculum and for the excellence of its graduates.
Digital Teaching and Global Community
In 2009, ICYAS shifted from a physical campus and became an early innovator in online education through extensive video programs and structured online courses. Hundreds of instructional recordings formed a significant educational archive and reached an international audience. A daily online meditation was offered, without interruption, creating a shared rhythm of practice that expanded and connected a growing global community.
Government, Corporate, and Educational Leadership
By 2014, ICYAS advanced into the fields of government, corporate, and educational leadership. The Centre brought its teachings, in a variety of formats, to leaders at the highest level in organizations, corporations, governments, and institutions, working directly with individuals as well as advisory teams. Through consulting, speaking, and media programs, this work contributed to global strategy and impact, helping leaders and organizations shape new perspectives and approaches in the 21st century.
New Initiative – Renaissance mind™
ICYAS developed new educational and leadership initiatives in the applied yogic and healing sciences under the names Renaissance Mind and Renaissance Healing. These programs introduced advanced and integrative formats, establishing new protocols in training, application, and strategic leadership that were available only through the Centre. The research of this phase produced original systems of study that remain part of the institution’s foundation.
The Pandemic Years
During the pandemic, ICYAS was called upon to serve both locally and globally through online instruction, international webinars, leadership seminars, youth programs, and the Stress-Away™ project, which continues to reach students and professionals around the world. The Centre’s presence extended to regions affected by war and to communities seeking support during a time of global change.
das prakash® healing
Over many years, Yogi Akal developed and refined Laser Touch Healing, a unique system of energy medicine that later evolved into Das Prakash Healing. Following the pandemic years, ICYAS created the Das Prakash Healing Lab, working with small groups and individual participants to explore the system’s methods and applications through research, education, and treatment. From this work, Das Prakash Healing was formally established and trademarked as an advanced specialization within ICYAS and as a distinctive four-year program in the Integrative Yogic Arts and Sciences.
ICYAS 2025: International E-Campus and Professional Licensing
In 2025, the Centre launched its advanced online platform, uniting all ICYAS programs and licensing pathways within a single integrated system. Participants could study live or on demand through an interactive e-campus that supported continuing education, ICYAS licensing, and open learning. The platform connected a worldwide community of learners and leaders and marked a major evolution in the teaching and application of the Yogic Arts, Healing Sciences, and Professional Development. Its programs reflected depth, innovation, and excellence at the highest level
2026 Expansion
2026 marks a new chapter for ICYAS. Building on a strong foundation, the Centre is expanding its reach through education, communication, and social media, refining mentorship, and preparing a new generation of global licensees. This is a time of visible growth and inspired purpose, beginning the unfolding of a larger vision and the next stage in the evolution of Yogic healing and education.
“These programs are so impactful, interesting and deep. They have changed the way I understand myself, manage my life, communicate with my family, and grow my business.“
– S. Burrus, France