Nepal celebrates International Yoga Day
TravelBizNews —
Kathmandu: Nepal celebrated International Yoga Day today organizing various programs in different parts of the country.
Nepal government organized a program at Durbar Marg to celebrate the International Yoga Day. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and high ranking officials attended the program to mark the day.
Addressing a function organized on the occasion of the International Yoga Day,Mnister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Ananda Pokharel said that Nepal is the abode of the hermits and sages who practiced yoga since ancient history.
The United Nations proclaimed 21 June as International Yoga Day by resolution 69/131. on 11 December 2014,
Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.International Yoga Day aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.
On this occasion ,UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- Moon urged all to embrace healthier choices and lifestyles and to commit to unity with fellow human beings, regardless of ethnicity, faith, age, gender identity or sexual orientation.
“Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India and is now practiced in various forms around the world. The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.Yoga balances body and soul, physical health and mental well-being. It promotes harmony among people, and between ourselves and the natural world “, he added.
This year’s observance of the International Day of Yoga highlights the important role healthy living plays in the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals, adopted last year by all 193 United Nations Member States.
“As exercise, yoga has multiple benefits. Physical inactivity is linked with a number of non-communicable diseases, such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, which are among the leading causes of illness and death worldwide. By improving fitness, teaching us how to breathe correctly, and working to diminish stress, yoga can help to cultivate healthier lifestyles.”
“Practicing yoga can also help raise awareness of our role as consumers of the planet’s resources and as individuals with a duty to respect and live in peace with our neighbors. All these elements are essential to building a sustainable future of dignity and opportunity for all, “he said.
June 21, 2016
