UNRC message on International Day of Yoga 2022

Namaste

What if I were to tell you that there exists a single word bringing together the concepts of sustainability, unity, peace, and nature? Yoga - A single word with unlimited possibilities. Over 5000 years old, and with over 300 million practitioners globally and growing - Yoga is India’s ancient gift to the modern world. The relevance of Yoga cannot be overemphasized at a time when the world is reeling from the shocks of a global pandemic, political instability, wars and a climate crisis threatening our existence. Here in India, for example, Yoga became a source of support for our brave front line workers during the worst days of the pandemic. Yoga promotes oneness amongst people, communities and countries. It heals our body, mind and soul, and balances our relationship with nature. Yoga is a force for good and can be an important tool in humanity’s quest to promote a sustainable lifestyle in harmony with our planet. This mantra and approach can help elevate communities, societies and policies, for example the Government of India’s new LiFE campaign, encouraging each one of us to live mindful, environmentally conscious and sustainable lifestyles. I am thrilled to be celebrating International Yoga Day in India for the first time. I look forward to experiencing - first hand - the power of this ancient practice in promoting peace, tolerance and oneness today. Aap sab ko Yoga Day ki haardik shubh kaamnai.

Dhanyavaad.