Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 21: Carmel School vibrantly observed International Yoga Day on June 21, aligning its celebrations with the global theme ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health.’ This annual event, strategically held on the Northern Hemisphere's longest day a date symbolically linked to inner balance and planetary harmony sought to underscore the profound benefits of yoga for both physical and mental well-being among its students and staff.
The initiative aimed to equip participants with tools to navigate the demands of modern life, fostering inner peace and combating stress, thereby reinforcing the global recognition of June 21 as International Yoga Day since its inception in 2015.
The programme commenced with a solemn lamp lighting ceremony, by Sr Rosevera, the principal, alongside physical education instructors Karunakar, Krishnappa, and Sachitha. A serene prayer service followed, emphasizing the spiritual core of yoga and invoking blessings. A distinctive segment featured scripture readings and insightful reflections drawn from the Holy Scriptures, including the Bible, Bhagavad Gita, and Quran, promoting a spirit of inclusivity and highlighting the universal principles of peace and harmony inherent in yogic philosophy.
Participants collectively offered prayers for inner tranquility, holistic well-being, and life balance. The ambiance was further elevated by a captivating welcome dance, performed with infectious enthusiasm, setting a positive and inviting tone for the day's activities.
Chief guest Kumareshwara Bhat, introduced by Dimple, delivered an illuminating address on the ‘6 Ws of Yoga.’ He elucidated yoga's origins, crediting Maharshi Patanjali for systematizing its ancient practices, and noted its global prevalence. Bhat also detailed suitable environments for practice, yoga's universal appeal, its role in mental control and holistic development, and its Sanskrit etymology meaning ‘to unite.’
He further elaborated on the eight interconnected limbs of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras: Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi. Demonstrating practical aspects, Bhat guided the children through the three crucial phases of Pranayama: Puraka (inhalation), Kumbhaka (breath retention), and Rechaka (exhalation), explaining their individual and collective benefits for respiratory health, focus, and overall well-being.
The engaging program was compered by Kiyana of grade 9A and Rifda Fathima of 9C, whose confident delivery ensured a smooth flow of events. Kenith of 9C extended a warm welcome to all attendees, setting a hospitable tone for the celebration. The comprehensive program concluded with vote of thanks delivered by Menha of 9B, who expressed sincere gratitude to all participants, meticulous organizers, and invaluable contributors whose collective efforts made the International Yoga Day celebration a resounding success.