New Delhi, June 8 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee on Monday released Yogikasparsh, a yoga manual in braille written by Nivedita Joshi, at a function in Rashtrapati Bhavan here.

He said on the occasion that Yoga is an art, science and philosophy that helps to join the powers of body, mind and soul for achieving self-realization.

The President added: "It is perhaps only yoga that provides the complete answer to a person's physical, mental, moral and spiritual well-being."

"Modern medical science has validated that the practice of yoga not only reduces stress but has multiple long lasting beneficial effects. Yogic discipline not only helps control the wavering mind but also inspires the pursuit of excellence," he said addressing the gathering on the occasion.

The President said the publication of a Yoga manual in braille was a welcome pioneering step in the right direction.

The yoga manual in braille was prepared by young yoga teacher Nivedita Joshi in association with scientists at the IIT - Delhi.

The Yogikasparsh is expected to help millions of blind people learn and practice Yoga.

Nivedita Joshi, daughter of senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi, suffered from a critical ailment some 19 years ago and got fully cured with the help of Yoga. Later, she dedicated her life to this ancient art of India and became a Yoga teacher herself.

Her parents were also present on the occasion.