International Day of Yoga marked in Ha Nam province

Ha Nam (VNA) – A celebration of the ninth International Day of Yoga was held at the Tam Chuc national tourism site, the northern province of Ha Nam, on June 20.

The activity, organised by the provincial People’s Committee and the Indian Embassy in Vietnam, aimed to help improve public awareness of health care and also strengthen the Vietnam - India solidarity and friendship. It attracted yoga experts and coaches from India, over 500 yogis from across Ha Nam, as well as international visitors.

In his remarks, Ta Dinh Quyen, Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and head of the organising committee, said the event, deeply imbued with the two countries’ cultural identities, is hoped to contribute to bilateral friendship and encourage physical exercise in the community to improve public health. It was also expected to introduce locals as dynamic and hospitable hosts to visitors from nationwide and other countries.

Dr Monica Sharma, Director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre at the Indian Embassy in Vietnam, said the UN decision to select June 21 as the International Yoga Day received support from member states, including Vietnam – a comprehensive strategic partner of India.

The day is dedicated to the practice of yoga and the reception of its benefits. Yoga is not only a type of physical exercise but also a lifestyle. Through the practice, people can improve the strength, flexibility, and balance of their bodies, reduce stress, and boost their ability to focus. It also helps practitioners raise their sense of responsibility towards community health, she added.

At the celebration, more than 500 people joined in artistic yoga performances./.