Keighley has most likely made history becoming the first local authority in the UK to sponsor an international Yoga Day event. On Sunday 11 June residents observed International Yoga Day at the Keighley Civic centre, where dozens of people enjoyed an intense yoga session, through a professional yoga trainer learnt a range of poses and posture techniques.
Image: High Commission of India, Birmingham
Yoga day finds its origin in India, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi, first introduced the concept on 21 June 2015. Since then, it has become an annual event in India and around the world. On 11 December 2014, the UN had announced that, 21 June will be annually observed as ‘International Yoga Day’.
An ancient practice, rooted to Indian culture, Yoga has been used as a spiritual practice to boost physical and mental wellbeing. Yoga comprises of various poses or asanas are inclusive of both physical and breathing exercises.
The origins of Yoga can be traced back to 5000 years, when the word was first used in the ancient Hindu text of Rig-Veda.
Yoga has various health benefits.
As per a study by Harvard health, Yoga is not only helpful in weight control and overall fitness of mind and body, but also helps lower blood sugar levels or cholesterol.
The event was supported by the Indian Consulate at Birmingham.
Image: High Commission of India, Birmingham
India’s Council General, Dr Shashank Vikram, speaking to Asian Standard, said: “It is a matter of pride that the Keighley Council has joined hands with the Consulate to celebrate the International Day of Yoga in Bradford. Like last year, this year also we are celebrating Yoga throughout Midlands and the North of England, numerous organisations have joined hands with us to celebrate this movement of healthy mind and body and send out a message for the well-being of humanity.”
“This year’s Yoga is even more important as India assumed the G20 Presidency with the common theme of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – ‘One Earth One Family One Future’. I am sure that in the coming years this mass movement will get bigger and better. I invite the people of Bradford to come and benefit from this excellent Yoga initiative of the Keighley Council.”
Image: High Commission of India, Birmingham
Keighley Town Mayor, Cllr Mohammed Nazam also spoke to Asian Standard. He said: “International Yoga Day, now celebrated across the globe, holds its origins in the beautiful country of India. And here, in Keighley, we take immense pride in being the first local authority in the United Kingdom to sponsor an event of such significance. This is a testament to our commitment to promoting health, well-being, and cultural exchange within our community.”
“As the Mayor of this vibrant town, I wholeheartedly believe in the power of community and the strength we gain from supporting each other. Today, as we unite in this celebration of International Yoga Day, let us remember that it is not only about the physical postures or breathing techniques but about fostering a sense of unity, well-being, and inner peace within ourselves and our community.
