Embracing Yoga: A Path to Inner Peace and Environmental Awareness
Yoga: More Than Just Exercise
New Delhi, June 20: Saima Wazed, the Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia, emphasized on Friday that yoga transcends mere physical activity, serving as a journey towards achieving inner peace and harmony, especially as we approach the International Day of Yoga (IDY).
The International Day of Yoga is celebrated every year on June 21, with this year's theme being “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.”
Wazed articulated that yoga is not solely about physical fitness; it is a means to cultivate mindfulness and a deeper connection with our bodies.
According to her, engaging in yoga enhances our awareness of our environment and the natural world.
"In light of the environmental issues we face today, yoga provides a sustainable approach by promoting simplicity, mindful consumption, and respect for nature," she remarked.
She further noted that by adopting yoga practices, individuals can lessen their ecological impact and contribute positively to the planet's health.
Yoga advocates for the preservation of clean air, pure water, and fertile soil, which are crucial for our well-being and the sustainability of our planet for future generations.
Wazed referenced various studies indicating that 77% of individuals report increased physical strength after consistent yoga practice.
Additionally, over 80% of chronic inflammation patients saw nearly a 50% decrease in inflammation levels after just six weeks of daily yoga.
Research has also highlighted yoga's benefits for mental health; a study from Harvard Medical School revealed that 60% of participants with depression noted significant symptom relief after practicing yoga bi-weekly for eight weeks.
"On this International Day of Yoga, let us acknowledge that every breath we take is a gift from nature, and each moment spent in mindfulness brings us closer to a healthier future. Together, we can foster a world of health and harmony for our minds, bodies, and the planet," Wazed concluded.