Yoga: For a Better Living…

With people from various walks of life adopting yoga as a route to a fitter life; Yoga– the age-old Indian practice of physical exercise has garnered a lot of popularity. Since the inception of the ‘International World Yoga Day’ on June 21, 2015, the art of yoga has touched the shores of all the continents.

In this world of high paced lifestyle, people see yoga as an alternative to the world of the gym, as yoga not only provides the relaxation time to the muscles but also vitalises the mental health along with the good facilitation of the internal organs.

The date– June 21 was recommended to mark the International Yoga Day since it marks the longest day in the northern hemisphere and many believe that it marks the day that Lord Shiva – one of the Hindu Trinity, began imparting yoga to his followers and became its first guru. Since the inclusion of Yoga into the UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in December 2016, India’s elusive cultural heritage finds expression in the ideas, practices, beliefs, and values shared by communities across various countries.

There are numerous yoga asanas that work on different levels to help us live a wholesome life. We must try all these and pick the ones that are truly meant for us. The chosen ones must be practiced regularly in order to develop a healthy lifestyle. The whole idea behind dedicating a day to Yoga is to help the world recognise the wonders it can do if practiced regularly.

Activities for ‘International World Yoga Day’ in Goa

As part of the celebration, the Ministry of AYUSH will host a state level programme at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium on June 21. Over 200 government employees and 800 students will participate in the Yoga Day celebration which will be held from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. under the guidance of Goa State Yoga Academy. Besides, programmes will be held in Mapusa, Panaji, Margao, Quepem, and Ponda.

“Quote it……”

Yoga basically means the union of body, mind, and soul. When you start doing yoga your body, mind, and energies will be aligned in such a way that your health will flourish, the mind will be peaceful. Health will flourish means your body will not have any disease. You will start to grow spiritually.

International Yoga Day has created awareness among people and also yoga can bring communities together in an inclusive manner that generates respect.

–Gaurav Mahambre, Engineer, Porvorim

The word yoga to me literally means "union” or to "merge".

More than a set of physical postures or exercises defines yoga as a science to determine the nature of who you are and what you want to be. Yoga is essentially a technology to change the shape of who you are. But it has changed in today's modern era and it has become a way of earning process.

– Nidhi Tar, Photographer, Mapusa

Yoga, an ancient but perfect science; deals with the evolution of humanity.

Yoga helps in many ways like Weight loss, Stress relief, improved immunity, increased energy and other factors that help to improve our immunity. Meditation is the best part as it helps to keep us calm and peaceful. Yoga helps in finding the inner peace. International Yoga Day has helped in spreading the power of yoga and also to connect people through yoga.

–Deepali Nagarsekar, Student, Taliegao