10th International Day of Yoga: The Embassy of India hosts a celebration in Yangon

The Embassy of India in Myanmar, in collaboration with Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, celebrated the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY)on Friday.

The celebration at Thuwanna National Indoor Stadium is part of a nationwide series of events commemorating the International Day of Yoga.

The celebration saw a diverse gathering of over 600 Yoga enthusiasts including prominent Myanmar nationals, government officials, members of diplomatic corps and members of the Indian Diaspora, all coming together to partake in Yoga Session led by experienced instructors. The event highlighted Yoga's profound impact on holistic health, emphasizing the unity of mind and body.

Ambassador, Embassy of India, H.E. Abhay Thakur, said "It’s an occasion for the Embassy of India to bring together diverse sections of societies all over the world. …We have managed to celebrate Yoga not only in the cultural center but also across Myanmar; 17 events done by the Embassy of India, 8 in Yangon, 5 in Mandalay, even in Sittwe. We have managed to organize the events in our consulates and, of course, in Nay Pyi Taw. It’s a great occasion to bring everyone together and spread the message of peace, harmony, joining forces, and coming together, uniting to promote peace in our family, in our society, in our country, and in the whole world.”

The event in Yangon featured a series of activities, including guided Yoga Session andMeditation Workshop. Under the IDY theme of “Yoga for Self and Society”, participants engaged in various Yoga postures, breathing exercises and meditation techniques, experiencing firsthand the rejuvenating effects of these practices.

Instructor, Shwe Ingyin Yoga, said " I'm really excited and proud to be part of the 10th International Yoga Day. As everyone knows, the essence of Yoga is profound, and more and more people are becoming interested in it. I believe that organizing events like this will help to spread the practice of Yoga more widely."

The word ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj’, meaning ‘to join’, ‘to yoke’, or ‘to unite’.

Yoga, an ancient practice from India, is globally considered an invaluable gift to humanity. It encompasses a comprehensive approach to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, fostering resilience, peace, and balance in daily life.

Celebrating the International Day of Yoga brings together people from diverse cultures in the shared practice of Yoga.