The art of yoga

There are various ways to take care of one's self. From the simple act of taking a bath to the most extensive process of getting a medical checkup, all of these are considered forms of self-care as they cater to your various needs.

One form of self-care that we've been exposed to for years now is what we call yoga. We've seen and heard about yoga in various films, TV series, and on a number of social media platforms but apart from the view of a person calmingly stretching on a mat, what is yoga?

According to the United Nations, yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India and is packed with physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. The word 'yoga' is said to be derived from Sanskrit and symbolizes the union of body and consciousness.

The main point of yoga is to promote overall well-being and harmony all while enacting various physical postures, concentrating, and trying on different meditation techniques and breathing exercises. Research has shown that it can help relieve stress, improve mental and emotional health, and promote healthy sleeping patterns.

During the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi explained, “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action ... a holistic approach [that] is valuable to our health and our well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the person behind the idea of observing International Yoga Day which we commemorate today, June 21. The day aims to raise awareness worldwide of the countless benefits one can get when practicing yoga.

This year, the theme for International Yoga Day is “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakan” and puts emphasis on the healthy living of every human being irrespective of any discrimination with the regular practice of yoga.

The Sanskrit phrase “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakan” translates to the whole world is one family. According to Shreya Choudhuri of Prime Hub, this statement reflects the concept of all human beings being connected together and that everyone should live in complete harmony and cooperation with each other.

In the Philippines, International Yoga Day was celebrated at the music hall of SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. At the event, renowned radio host RJ Ledesma started the festivities with a devotional hymn (Ganesh Stuti) performed by Indian expat singer Sharada Malladi.

The yoga practice commenced with the Suryanamaskar (sun salutation), led by Janice Cuevas, a certified Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga teacher. This was followed by the practice of key Yoga asanas led by Donna Lampano, a certified Yoga Guru. Thereafter, Clara Day Herrera, a certified international expert guided the participants through the Pranayama guided breathing practice. Iachina Hernandez, the founder of BetterLife Studio, concluded the event through a meditation session.

Prior to June 21, there were also various yoga activities done to promote the special day. Bharati - Indian Expat Women's Association held yoga practice sessions at the National Training School for Girls and the Haven for Women Institute run by the Department of Social Welfare and Development-National Capital Region (DSWD-NCR) in Muntinlupa City, the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City, and the Bureau of Fire Protection in the City of Manila.

Yoga practice sessions were also conducted by Bharati in Parañaque City's Nord Anglia International School and Miriam College in Quezon City. In Pampanga City, the Indian Cultural Association of the Philippines (ICAP) held a Yoga practice session at Alpha Aviation Group in Clark. The Indian Women in Enterprise (I-WE) held a Yoga practice session at the Club United, Merville in Parañaque City.

With this celebration, we get to witness yoga in all its forms and purposes. It's a balance between physical, mental, and spiritual and a way for us to get in tune with each.

SPEAKING OF SELF-CARE YOU MIGHT WANT TO CHECK OUT THESE BINGE-WORTHY FILMS WITH THEMES SURROUNDING MENTAL HEALTH.