FAITH leaders, health experts, yoga instructors, mental health practitioners and fitness enthusiasts offered insights into the transformative practice of yoga during the pandemic at a three-day international yoga summit held virtually from May 28-30.
The conclave was inaugurated by one of India’s leading spiritual leaders, His Holiness (HH) Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, president of the Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh. HH Pujya Muniji, as he is popularly known, said: “It is very important for all of us to be ready to face the second wave of the pandemic with discipline and patience.
“The world is changing rapidly, the catastrophe of Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, the havoc of corona, (cyclone) Tauktae and Yaas storm, many such challenges are in front of us. Along with the government, we all also have a national duty and responsibility to meet all these challenges together.
“At this time, both immunity and humanity must be protected. We cannot merely speak about boosting our immunity without protecting our humanity and our community. We must come together for this and yoga is the answer. Yoga is not merely a set of exercises, but it is a way of life. Yoga is for all.”
Swami Kailashananda Giriji, who took part in the summit, praised the organisers and their efforts to create awareness about yoga and its benefits.
The founder of Sarva Yoga International Italy, Dr Antonietta Rosie, said yoga was an invaluable gift of India.
“My experience of thirty years is that yoga changes the whole thought of man. The sooner the yogic way of life is adopted, the better.”
First day of the event can be viewed here.
