Yoga is quickly becoming one of the most popular, if not the most popular, workout regime among those who are looking to gain flexibility, strength and even lose weight. It can be done from the privacy of your home or in a classroom. Yoga is ideal for reducing stress and for relaxation. Once you get into Yoga, you learn that it is so much more than just a way to workout and keep in shape. It is a philosophy, a passion and a way of life. Here, at Independence Square we see how Yoga has caught on.
President Maithripala Sirisena and thousands of yoga enthusiasts celebrated International Day of Yoga at Independence Square in Colombo on June 23 despite the rain. The President practised a number of yoga asanas and thanked yoga institutions in Sri Lanka for their excellent efforts. The event was attended by a number of Sri Lankan ministers and officials, apart from the public, including professionals, doctors, academicians and cultural personalities, across all religions and ethnicities.
High Commissioner for India, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, welcomed President Maithripala Sirisena. The Yoga celebrations started with a video message from Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. The Indian High Commissioner highlighted the global efforts led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to spread awareness about Yoga. “Yoga brings peace by combining the body, mind, spirit and soul. Yoga brings harmony in the family, society, nation and the world”, he said. Highlighting the interest of President Sirisena in health issues and the ambassador praised the whole hearted support in promoting the practice of Yoga.
The event was organised by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of Sri Lanka, National Youth Services Council Sri Lanka and other Yoga related organisations.
