Yoga is known to offer a holistic approach to improving one’s overall health and, at the same time, connecting people with themselves and their deepest feelings, said Indian High Commissioner to Namibia, Mandarapu Subbarayudu.
He explained that Yoga serves as a bridge between the individual and society and has become a global movement with more and more people from all cultures across all continents embracing it.
“The day was also celebrated at other places in Namibia, including Okahandja. Several special workshops and demonstrations focusing on various aspects of wellness have been held at the High Commission of India under the guidance of yoga expert Dr Anurita Misra,” said the diplomat.
The 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) was celebrated in Windhoek with enthusiasm on 22 June 2024.
Yoga practitioners and enthusiasts, as well as dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, and residents of Windhoek, gathered at the United Athletic Field in Olympia to propagate the message and benefits of yoga for the well-being and healthy living of people.
Subbarayudu said free yoga classes are being offered at the High Commission and those interested are always welcome.
This year marked the 10th IYD with the theme “Yoga for Self and Society”.
Yoga, a transformative practice, represents the harmony of mind and body, the balance between thought and action, and the unity of restraint and fulfilment.
He said it integrates the body, mind, spirit, and soul, offering a holistic approach to health and well-being that brings peace to our hectic lives.
“Its power to transform is what we celebrate on this special day,” he said.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the day urged everyone to make yoga part of their daily lives.
“The world is looking at yoga as a powerful agent of global good. Yoga helps us live in the present moment without the baggage of the past. When we are peaceful within, we can also make a positive impact on the world. Yoga is making new ways of positive change in society,” said the yoga enthusiast.
The IYD aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.
The resolution by the United Nations notes “the importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health”.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also urged its member states to help their citizens reduce physical inactivity, which is among the top 10 leading causes of death worldwide, and a key risk factor for non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes. WHO in collaboration with India, has launched WHO mYoga, a yoga app to help people stay active and healthy. The app is considered safe, and secure and does not collect any data from users. It is available for free download on Android devices, and Apple devices. –psiririka@nepc.com.na