Indian Cultural Association Advocates for the use of Yoga

Sports Correspondent

To mark 5th International Yoga Day to enhance healthy living, Indian High Commission and Indian Cultural Association on Sunday organised a Yoga session at Abuja.

Mr. Sanjay Jain, the President, Indian Cultural Association, Lagos, said that International Yoga Day aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.

According to Jain, Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India.

He explained that the word ‘Yoga’ is derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.

Jain said Yoga is not just about exercise but a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature. “Some of the benefits from practicing Yoga are as follows:“Enhances vitality, focus, memory and productivity.

“Stabilizes the body, mind and emotions, strengthens and stabilizes the spine.

“Can relieve back pain, stress, anxiety and tension, relieve from chronic ailments and improves overall health.

“Yoga enhances teamwork and communication, imparts a lasting sense of joy, peace and fulfilment”, Jain said.

He noted that recognising the importance of Yoga, the United Nations proclaimed June 21, as International Yoga Day by passing a resolution. He also explained that the draft resolution establishing the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India and endorsed by 175 member states.

Mr Jain said that the resolution further notes the importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health.

He said it was in that regard that the World Health Organization also urged its member states to help their citizens reduce physical inactivity, which is among the top ten leading causes of death worldwide.

According to him, “inactivity was a key risk factor for noncommunicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes. Celebrating World Yoga Day at the premises of Indian High Commission for last three years will certainly boost the information and knowledge levels of people.

He said it would further increase awareness on Yoga, So that more Nigerians would adopt it in their daily lives.