Over 3,500 people observe 1st int'l Yoga Day in Houston

Around 3,500 yoga lovers across the Houston rolled out their orange mats before they bend and twist their bodies in complex postures to mark the first International Yoga Day.
Consulate General of India, Houston, in partnership with Patanjali Yogpeeth (USA), 30 other sponsors and supporting organisations made the event a huge success. Indian Musilms of Greater Houston Association was one of the sponsors of the International Yoga Day.
"It was our pleasure to bring together a large number of diverse Houstonians and institutions for celebrating the first International Day of Yoga in a befitting manner. My sincere thanks to all organisers, supporters and sponsors of this event for their contribution towards the IDY," Harish Parvathaneni, Consul General of India, told PTI.

"Houston has a vibrant Yoga family and there are many Yoga centers from different parts of the world. It is an opportunity to remove the duality and promote the spirit of oneness between mind and body, thought and action and man nature," he said.
With over 3,500 registered attendees from all walks of life and age groups, the free event had everything for yoga lovers from interactive yoga sessions and demonstrations to Collective Yoga Session for Harmony and Peace consisting of Asanas, Relaxation, Pranayama as well as Meditation.
There were separate morning and afternoon sessions conducted by various yoga experts who also held workshops on Therapeutic effects of the ancient Indian spiritual practice.

The Yoga Day also had sessions for children and also demonstrated "how to do yoga while sleeping".
Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Governor of the State of Texas sent his proclamation on International Day of Yoga.
"It shows we can truly look toward a greater future where community is one. We support the vision that many can and will come together to support unity, service to humanity and wellness practices to enhance our daily lives as one human race," said Jenny Buergermeister of Texas Yoga Conference, who was working with the Indian consulate in organising the Yoga Day.