By Aabigayle McIntosh

Coolidge Cricket Grounds, formerly Antigua Athletic Club, is the venue chosen for the ninth International Day of Yoga, this coming Saturday, June 17th.

International Day of Yoga has been celebrated across the world annually on June 21 since 2015, following its inception in the United Nationals General Assembly in 2014.

Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his UN address in 2014, had suggested the date of June 21, as it is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and shares a special significance in many parts of the world.

The celebrations in Antigua are organized with the support of the High Commission of India in Guyana, accredited to Antigua & Barbuda, Anguilla, and St. Kitts & Nevis, in association with Indian Honorary Consul Vijay Tewani.

Tewani said over the past 8 years the Antiguan and Barbudan public has embraced the concept and awareness and appreciation for it has increased.

He said a few business-minded individuals have also opened their own studios to further promote the practice.

“People are really looking forward to this day to come and practice yoga which is good for your physical and mental well-being and reduces stress,” Tewani said.

He explained further that yoga connects the body and soul and it is something that could be done at home, work, or any quite safe space.

Yoga, he said, connects emotional intelligence leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

Tewani also stressed that yoga is considered a gift to the world from Prime Minister Modi and has nothing to do with religion.