Seychelles celebrates 4th International Yoga Day

The High Commission of India in Seychelles celebrated the 4th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2018 at the iconic Palais des Sports indoor stadium in Victoria, Seychelles on Saturday.

The celebrations under the theme "Yoga for Health" jointly organized by the High Commission of India in Seychelles and the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, Government of Seychelles, was inaugurated by Jean Paul Adam, Minister of Health.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Vice-President of the Republic of Seychelles, Vincent Meriton, Minister of Family Affairs, Mitcy Larue, Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, Didier Dogley, Ambassador of Russian Federation and Dean of Diplomatic Corps Vladimir Belous. A Yoga souvenir published by the High Commission on this occasion was also released by the dignitaries present.

Video messages of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj conveying their warm wishes on the occasion of IDY 2018 were also played.

This was followed by a guided Mass Yoga Performance using the Common Yoga Protocol conducted by the Yoga Expert from the High Commission of India assisted by local Yoga instructors from Seychelles.

Apart from this, yoga for senior citizens and children, yoga for health, prenatal yoga, meditation and breathing sessions were also conducted. The event also saw the display of photographs on Yoga shot by noted Indian photographer Binoy K. Behl.

In a special video message sent a day earlier, President of the Republic of Seychelles, Danny Faure, said "I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi of India for bringing this initiative to the United Nations. The word Yoga comes from Sanskrit and means to join or unite symbolizing the union of body and consciousness. The benefits of yoga are unquestionable, strengthening us mentally, spiritually and physically.

It is crucial that we continue to make healthy choices and follow lifestyle patterns that encourage good health. Our health is our responsibility. But yoga is more than physical activity. It cultivates a balanced attitude in day to day life that is crucial for mental well being. The science of inner development and well being is the greatest gift for future generations. It is a true pleasure to mark the 4th International Day of Yoga here in Seychelles and I extend my very best wishes to everyone on this special occasion".

The event was attended by over 1000 yoga enthusiasts comprising more than 1% of the country's population from different walks of life - children, students, common people, senior citizens, socio-cultural personalities, local & government functionaries and media personnel.