…plans to introduce Yoga in schools
BY DELISA THWALA
MBABANE – The High Commission of India has stressed the importance of practising Yoga for physical and mental well-being.
This was part of the International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations, held on Monday and the main event taking place today at Woodlands high school.
The Internet describes Yoga as a physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. It was first codified by the sage Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras around 400 C.E., but it was passed down from teacher to student long before that.
The word yoga means ‘to yoke’ or ‘to unite’ in Sanskrit, and the practice aims to create harmony between body, mind and spirit, as well as between the individual and the universal consciousness.
The High Commission of India in Eswatini, which was established in August 2019, has been organizing annual events to mark the IDY, which falls on June 21.
The High Commission of India Charge d’Affaires’ Brahmam Jagabattuni said Yoga was not just an exercise, but a way of life that could enhance one’s health and happiness. He said many people confused Yoga with aerobics, but Yoga was more subtle and gentle than that.
“Yoga is not about forcing your muscles or sweating out. It is about harmonizing your body, mind and spirit. If you make Yoga a part of your life, then you can do everything better, whether it is running your family, going to the office, or running your business,” Jagabattuni said.
The main event was held at the Prince of Wales Sports Ground yesterday, with the final event scheduled for today at Woodlands High School.
The IYD is celebrated on June 21 yearly. Over 100 people participated in Monday’s event, where they learned and practised various Yoga poses and breathing techniques.
“Introduction of Yoga to the school children at a young age would keep them healthy and focused throughout the school day, which is crucial to achieving academic standards,” he further said. For this year, the High Commission of India is celebrating the IDY by organising at least one Yoga session in each region of the country.
Courtesy Pics of High Commission of India – Mbabane
