Over 2000 Nigerians from all walks of life on Sunday at the Main Bowl of the National Stadium Lagos, came together to celebrate the maiden International Day for Yoga, as declared by the United Nations. The event themed ‘ Yoga for Happiness’ was organised by the Art of Living Foundation, the Nigeria Olympic Committee and Sewa International, and saw participants performing graceful yogic postures, sun salutations and a short meditation.
The event, aimed at creating awareness for a healthy and happy way of living, began with Art of Living instructors conducting a round of warm-up exercises, demonstration of yoga and relaxation postures, and concluded with a resounding pledge for a better Nigeria by a jubilant and enthusiastic crowd.
Through Sunday’s event, Nigeria joined a select group of over 100 countries where the Art of Living Foundation celebrates the International Day for Yoga. On Sunday, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of the Art of Living Foundation and ambassador of peace and happiness, said: “Yoga helps a human being to realise his full potential. Yoga improves the quality of life, which is so much needed today. Yoga can wipe the tears and bring smiles on every face. It can bring celebration and skill in everyone’s life.”
He added: “So let’s celebrate this world yoga day with zeal and enthusiasm, and extend this precious ancient knowledge to every human being on this planet.” Former African 400 metres hurdles champion and twotime Olympian, Henry Amike, praised the huge turnout of participants at the event, while renowned academician and founder of the Centre for Values in Leadership, Professor Pat Utomi, said: “It is essential for each and every one of us to incorporate yoga into our daily lives to progress faster as individuals and as a country.”
Sanjay Srivastav of Sewa International called on athletes to engage in yoga, saying, “we (Sewa International) are sure it will bring peace and harmony upon regular practice and shall produce many champions in Nigeria”, while Akshay Jain of Art of Living explained the goal of the foundation which he said is committed to working closely with communities in Nigeria to eradicate stress and violence and build a healthy and happy nation.”
Courtesy: New Telegraph
