MUSCAT : Yoga is an ancient art that originated in India and spread all over the world, gaining popularity for its holistic approach. The International Yoga Day is a summation of its glorious past and its relevance even today in boosting mind and body wellness.

“Yoga is the relationship between mind, body and breath, which creates a new space in your body – free from barriers – to live a healthy and empowered life,” states Prema Arun, Founder of Yoga City, Oman, and co-founder of Shankara Yoga Kendra, Bengaluru, India.

Explaining that the key objective behind the Yoga Day is to raise awareness of the many benefits of practicing yoga, she says, “The International Yoga Day holds great significance as it promotes a holistic approach to the well-being of the body and mind. It serves as a reminder of the connection between physical and mental health. The day brings communities together to learn and embrace a harmonious way of living.”

Over her 15 years of her stay and practice in Oman, Prema has witnessed perceptible changes in the mindset of people to yoga and its benefits. “In Oman, there has been a noticeable increase in awareness and participation in yoga classes, particularly after the pandemic. Many Omanis have joined these classes and are experiencing the benefits of yoga as a mind-body exercise,” she observes.

Trained in Astanga Yoga, Power Yoga, and Vinyasa, Prema has made it her mission to transform lives of busy homemakers, corporate professionals, and children alike through her teachings, which emphasize on lifestyle modifications.

Highlighting the essence of lifestyle modification, she says “While yoga is indeed a rewarding physical activity, it goes beyond that and encompasses a holistic lifestyle that promotes emotional wellbeing and mental health. The practice of yoga improves strength, balance, and flexibility through slow movements and deep breathing, which increases blood flow and warms up muscles. Furthermore, it is essential to note that yoga not only keeps the body healthy, but also enhances mental wellness by reducing stress and tension.”

In a symbolic gesture, the Indian Embassy in Oman has released an innovative video titled ‘Soulful Yoga, Serene Oman’ in collaboration with ‘Visit Oman’ – the national tour operator and the subsidiary of Omran Group – to mark the International Yoga Day.

This aims to visually demonstrate the fusion of yoga’s tranquility with Oman’s picturesque landscapes. This initiative not only promotes tourism but also signifies the power of wellness practices in fostering cultural exchange between nations.