Yoga is described as the ancient science which focuses on bringing harmony between mind, body, man and nature.
Tracing its origins from the dawn of civilization, Yoga goes beyond the basic mechanics of exercise as it focuses on the union of the individual consciousness (soul) with the Universal Consciousness (Spirit). It is a system of raising your ability to perceive, to enhance and ultimately reach self-realisation.
In keeping with the Government of India’s motto “Vasudhiva Kutumbakum,” The Whole World is one Family, Yoga is that tool which works towards unifying the world together by promoting fraternity, harmony, holistic well-being and overall peace.
The concept of International Day of Yoga was proposed by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United Nations General Assembly on 27th September 2014. It came into effect that same year, as the United Nations formally recognised 21st June, 2015 as World Yoga Day. The decision was positively adopted by 177 countries, including the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
This year, the High Commission of India, in collaboration with various partners such as the International Day of Yoga Committee, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, Chaguaramas Development Authority, National Council for Indian Culture (NCIC) and various Yoga Centres in T&T, will be celebrating the fifth International Yoga Day on 16th June, 2019 at the Chaguaramas Boardwalk.
The High Commission of India is proud to announce its extensive work being done across the country to raise awareness about yoga and its overall health benefits. At present, yoga is being taught in schools at all age levels across the country, such as:
St Clement Vedic School, San Fernando
ASJA Girls’ College, San Fernando
Chinmaya Mission schools in Debe, Couva and Gasparillo
SWAHA Hindu College, Sangre Grande
Dayanand Memorial Primary School, Penal
In addition, Yoga is being taught to members of the general public at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Co-operation, Chaguanas and the High Commission of India in Port-of-Spain.
In the near future, the High Commission of India proposes to extend its outreach of yoga by providing Technical and Teacher’s training courses as well as incorporating ICT through the use of audio-visual tools to help in the dissemination of knowledge. The High Commission of India also intends to collaborate with numerous stakeholders to include Yoga as a practical option for healthy living.
Yoga does not adhere to any particular religion, belief system or community. Aimed at achieving inner wellbeing, anyone who practices yoga can reap its benefits, irrespective of one’s faith, ethnicity or culture. In keeping with that philosophy, the High Commission of India encourages all to avail themselves to the ongoing scholarship courses in Yoga under the flagship programme of ITEC. Since its inception in 2017, a number of fellow Trinbagonians had the opportunity to partake in the ITEC programme titled ‘A Special Course for Yoga Trainers’.
The High Commission of India invites the public to join in as it celebrates the 5th International Yoga Day on Sunday 16th June at the Chaguaramas Boardwalk. There will also be food stalls offering Vegetarian food of different types.
Article courtesy
the High Commission of India