We celebrated the International Yoga Day (IYD) on Friday, 21 June at 7 AM at our clubhouse with much fanfare. It was a pleasant morning when we gathered to celebrate the glory of our ancient Indian culture.
The IYD celebration was organised by the Cultural Committee ably supported by volunteers, including a few young volunteers. The enthusiasm was such that many participants arrived before time. As we entered, soothing music greeted us as also a tilak on our foreheads by the volunteers.
The arrangements were good with ample space on the floor to spread out our mats as well as chairs for those who had difficulty sitting on the floor. The volunteers guided us to spread our mats and take our positions.
The chairs were arranged appropriately, on the periphery of the hall.
BOM VP, Professor Nita Verma welcomed us with an introductory speech, followed by welcoming our inhouse Yoga teacher, Supriya (11241), to take over.
Supriya’s calm voice made the soothing environment even better. We began with deep breathing and warming up. Supriya asked us to stand with our arms folded, with our palms ensconced in our armpits. She explained how this posture gives us time to reflect.
This posture, as practised by Swami Vivekananda, provides a momentary pause to our actions and focus is brought to our thoughts. This, in turn, leads us to make the correct decisions.
We then moved on to other easy Yoga asanas like the Bridge, Cobra, and Tabletop. We concluded with meditation and Shantipaath. Celebrating the IYD together encouraged the fence sitters to become regular practitioners.
Yoga, being a tool for connecting the body to the mind, should be practiced by all, from a youthful age to remain fit and fine at an older age. The IYD saw residents of all ages participating in good numbers making the celebration a success.
In the end, we availed the services of the coconut water seller stationed outside and ended the IYD with a healthy, refreshing drink. Thanks to the Cultural Committee, Supriya and the volunteers for conducting the celebration smoothly!
