ICAR-CIWA, Bhubaneswar Celebrated International Day of Yoga 2024

International Yoga Day is celebrated annually on June 21. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the benefits of practicing yoga and promoting its holistic approach to physical and mental well-being. The United Nations General Assembly declared June 21 as International Yoga Day in 2014, following a proposal by India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. The resolution was co-sponsored by 177 countries, highlighting the global appeal and significance of Yoga. June 21 is the summer solstice; it holds special significance in many cultures and is considered a day of spiritual importance. Yoga is not merely a physical exercise but a holistic approach to life. It integrates ethical principles (yamas and niyamas), physical postures, breath control, sensory withdrawal (pratyahara), concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana), and ultimately, self-realization (samadhi). Yoga serves as a comprehensive system for physical health, mental clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual growth.ICAR-CIWA Bhubaneswar celebrated International Day of
Yoga on 21st June, 2024.This year marks the 10th International Day of Yoga with the theme' Yoga for Women's Empowerment' that aims to transform yoga into a widespread movement that emphasises women's well-being and promotes global health and peace. Dr. Mridula Devi, Director, ICAR-CIWA, Bhubaneswar in her address highlighted the importance of finding balance in life and encouraged on physical, mental, and spiritual harmony. She advised the staff to practice yoga every day to reduce stress, keep good health and increase work efficiency. Various Yoga Asanas and Pranayamas were performed by staff as per common yoga protocol under the guidance of Yogacharya Shri. Prince Parija of Patanjali Yoga, Bhubaneswar. All the Scientific, Technical and Administrative staff along with YP, SRF and contractual staff of ICAR-CIWA enthusiastically participated in the program. The expert also answered various queries raised by the staff on the benefits of specific Asanas on physical as well as mental health. The programme was successfully coordinated by Dr. Praveen Jakhar, Principal Scientist, ICAR CIWA, Buhbaneswar.