The Commonwealth Secretariat in collaboration with the Indian High Commission in the UK and Heartfulness Worldwide teamed up to hold a special Yoga session at Marlborough House in London to celebrate the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY).
The event over the weekend, which was attended by members of the diplomatic community is a part of the global Yoga 4 Unity initiative, which highlights the benefits of Yoga in promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
In 2014, the United Nations declared June 21 as the annual International Day of Yoga. The well-known benefits of yoga align with the Commonwealth Secretariat's ongoing efforts to enhance health throughout the Commonwealth and combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through lifestyle adjustments and physical activity.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his video message: “The world is looking at Yoga as a powerful agent of global good. Yoga helps us realise that our welfare is related to the welfare of the world around us.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced in today's world, Commonwealth Secretary-General the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC said in her video message: "Our work is full of challenges, and none of us can pour from an empty cup. Yoga offers us a special avenue for self-examination and the pursuit of a healthier, more balanced life. This ancient tradition serves as a profound tool for enhancing mental and physical health for people all over the world, which is vital for our ongoing efforts to combat non-communicable diseases."
Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami reiterated the global importance of yoga in his remarks: “Yoga fosters physical and mental well-being holistically, transcending boundaries and uniting people worldwide.
“The theme for this 10th edition of International Yoga Day is ‘Yoga for self and society’, which underscores the importance of yoga in promoting global health and universal harmony. Through yoga, we can jointly contribute to a more peaceful, connected and sustainable world.”
Attendees also had the opportunity to view an exhibition titled ‘A History of Yoga and its Benefits’, which showcased the rich heritage of Yoga.
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Kamlesh D. Patel (Daaji) of Heartfulness Worldwide said: “Yoga is more than an exercise; it is a complete science that transforms us and gives us confidence, clarity of mind, and happiness. I am very happy to know that all of you have gathered at the Commonwealth Headquarters, Marlborough House, to celebrate the 10th International Day of Yoga, the first time this has been celebrated with the Commonwealth.”
The 10th International Day of Yoga – on June 21 but being celebrated all over the month – coincides with the Commonwealth Year of Youth emphasising the importance of health and development in young people. By promoting practices like Yoga, the Commonwealth Secretariat aims to foster resilience, reduce anxiety, and support the overall well-being of more than 1.5 billion youth across our member states.
The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent and equal sovereign states, India being the largest.
