e Yoga is an ancient practice that is used to keep one’s mind healthy and body fit. It helps an individual to make life organized and to keep the mind in peace. The International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21 since 2015, following its inception in the United Nations General Assembly in 2014.
Acknowledging Yoga's universal appeal, the United Nations declared on December 21, 2014, that June 21 every year will be observed as International Yoga Day to generate global awareness around a plethora of benefits of practising yoga. The initiative was first started by the prime minister of India, Narendra Modi with the objective of promoting the holistic benefits of yoga among the people worldwide. Various yoga programmes are held all over the country where yoga enthusiasts participate and encourage others to have a healthy lifestyle by doing yoga.
The Yenepoya School celebrated International Day of Yoga virtually. The programme began with the introduction by the MC, Mohammed Simil, a student of class VII. Chinmay S, a student from class VI invoked God’s blessings with a prayer song. Beloved principal, Grace Noronha welcomed the gathering with an opening speech highlighting the importance of yoga in our lives. The significance of the day was then elucidated by Risha Fathima, a student of class VIII.
The programme was followed by a wonderful display of yogasanas by the students of TYS. Devansh U Shetty, from class VI, introduced the honorable chief guest, Kushalappa Gowda and briefed everyone of his outstanding achievements in the field of yoga. The chief guest was then requested to enlighten everyone with his vast knowledge of yoga. Since actions speak louder than words, Kushalappa went on to demonstrate a few useful asanas such as Padmasana, Chinmudra and Kapala Bhaati, while explaining their importance in our daily lives. He encouraged all to practise them daily in order to achieve a healthier mind and body. This was ensued by a yoga session for the students by the yoga teacher from TYS, Chethan Gatty, who guided the students with some yogasanas.
The programme was graced by the esteemed dignitaries Mishria Javeed, the campus director, Grace Noronha, principal, Jacintha D'Costa, vice-principal and Dr Kushalappa Gowda, director/ yoga therapist Avishkar Yoga, Mangaluru. The vote of thanks was proposed by Shayan Mohammed and Hiba Fathima from class VII. The programme concluded by singing the school anthem by the music teacher, Cony Rodrigues.
It is a matter of pride for us Indians that we are able to share our rich heritage of yoga with everyone around the world through this day, and let everyone reap the benefits of yoga.