Youth Resources department Nagaland and Nagaland University celebrate the 12th International Day of Yoga with health-focused sessions.
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KOHIMA/DIMAPUR — The Department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS) and Nagaland University commemorated the 12th International Day of Yoga on Monday, themed "Yoga for healthy ageing", with programmes held in Kohima and Lumami.
The Department of YRS organised its programme at the Indira Gandhi Stadium (IGS) in Kohima, drawing participation from the Nagaland Bharat Scouts and Guides (NBS&G), National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), students of the IGS Academy, as well as coaches and officials of the department.
Yoga instructor Kelhouzasie Lawrence led the participants through the Common Yoga Protocol session, which began at 7 am and included a series of yoga asanas, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques.
Addressing the gathering before the session, Lawrence said this year's theme highlighted the importance of maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being as people age. He noted that yoga is not merely a form of physical exercise but a way of life that helps keep the body fit, the mind calm, and the soul peaceful.
He encouraged participants to practise yoga regularly and correctly, stating that yoga should not be approached as a competition. He added that individuals should perform postures according to their own capacity and avoid forcing themselves into difficult positions.
Explaining the day's programme, Lawrence said the Common Yoga Protocol consists of a 45-minute session featuring selected asanas and breathing techniques designed to promote overall health and wellness.
Also read: International Day of Yoga: Mass yoga sessions conducted across Nagaland
Meanwhile, Nagaland University commemorated the day at its headquarters in Lumami, with activities commencing on June 18 and culminating on June 22.
According to a press release, Joy Das, Finance Officer (In charge), attended as the chief guest, while Vekhoyi Tetseo, Registrar (In charge), was the special guest.
Das, in his address, noted that this was the right theme for the year, as everyone needed remedies or precautions to help relieve stress. Although certain yoga postures are difficult, he said regular practice would make them achievable. He suggested forming a yoga club where staff members could practise yoga after office hours to remain healthy.
In his welcome address, Dr. Harish Tiwari (DDS) noted that the journey of the International Day of Yoga began when the United Nations General Assembly, on December 11, 2014, adopted India's proposal to observe June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.
Since its first celebration in 2015, the world has been observing this day every year, and the university celebrated its 12th edition. He noted that the celebration of Yoga Day has transcended geographical boundaries, with millions of people across more than 190 countries, including nations from Asia, Europe, Africa, America, and Australia, participating in yoga activities.
He stated that the theme of this year's celebration, "Yoga for healthy ageing", is not only about living longer but also about living a healthier, more active, and meaningful life.
Various activities had been organised by the university, including a yoga workshop to provide practical experience for participants in yogasanas, pranayama, meditation, and other techniques. A yogasana video competition was also held in three categories: staff (teaching and non-teaching), scholars (male and female), and students (undergraduate and postgraduate) from across its three campuses. The third programme organised was a signature campaign.