Radio Cadena Agramonte emisiora de Camagüey
Havana, June 30 – The ancient practice of yoga, a traditional spiritual, physical, and mental discipline bequeathed to humanity by India, is highlighted today in Cuba, which recently celebrated its International Day.
“Yoga for One Health, One Earth” was the central theme of this year's celebration, whose main activity included the participation of some 350 practitioners, accompanied by a significant representation from the Asian nation's diplomatic headquarters on the island, led by Armstrong Changsan, ambassador in Havana.
Speaking to those gathered at the Coliseum of the capital's Sports City, Changsan emphasized that the theme of the occasion aims to demonstrate how this ancient practice is linked to the health of the planet, according to the digital media Jit, the agency of the National Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation (INDER, for its acronym in Spanish).
“Yoga strengthens the body, creates awareness and responsibility. By taking care of ourselves, we take care of the earth because we are one family,” Changsan said.
India's top diplomat in the Antillean nation expressed his gratitude for the support of the Cuban government, the INDER, and the enthusiastic practitioners for embracing this shared heritage with all humanity.
On behalf of the hosts, Yoel Rodríguez, INDER's Director of Physical Education and Health Promotion, stated that the most important aspect of an event like this is participating in one of the prophylactic and therapeutic activities that contribute to the well-being of the health of the Cuban population.
This was the eleventh time that all of Cuba celebrated International Yoga Day. The day began with the customary lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by an exercise exhibition featuring master Eduardo Pimentel, president of the Cuban Yoga Association. The evening concluded with a colorful segment featuring music and dance from the Asian nation, the cradle of the oldest civilizations on the planet.
Since its origins in India, yoga has emphasized meditation and liberation. Its main text is the Yoga Sutra, believed to have appeared around 400 AD, and constitutes one of the six orthodox doctrines (darshanas) of Hinduism.
The United Nations agreed on December 11, 2014, to celebrate the International Day of Yoga, following the support of 175 member states for the draft resolution presented by India.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized at the time that "yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient traditions," which is why the date chosen for the celebration, June 21 of each year, this legacy and its benefits to humanity are recognized. (PL) (Photo: Taken from the Internet)
