United Nations Secretary General Antnio Guterres on the eve of International Day of Yoga said that benefits of this ancient practice (Yoga) are precious in today’s dangerous and divided world.
“In a dangerous and divided world, the benefits of this ancient practice (Yoga) are particularly precious. Yoga offers a heaven of calm,” he said in a message on Tuesday, on the eve of the International Day of Yoga, which is observed on June 21 every year.
He further added that, “On this International Day of Yoga, let us embrace the spirit of unity, and resolve to build a better, more harmonious world for people, planet and ourselves.”
Prime minister Narendra Modi is set to lead a yoga session at UN headquarters in New York on Wednesday during the course of his ongoing US visit.
Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for the International Day of Yoga, observed on 21 June:
The International Day of Yoga celebrates the restorative healing and inner peace provided by this ancient practice.
This year’s theme — Yoga for Humanity — reminds us how yoga is truly universal.
With roots in India, yoga is now practiced worldwide, giving people of all faiths and walks of life the tools and practices they need to enhance and balance their physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing.
For hundreds of millions of people worldwide, yoga has also been an essential lifeline during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing an important means of coping with the challenges of social isolation and stress.
And in a world beset by disaster and division, yoga’s values of mindfulness, balance, moderation and discipline are essential as we seek out a new relationship with one another and with our planet.
On this important day, let us be inspired by this timeless practice and its values.
