Second International Day of Yoga Celebrated in Manila
Manila, Philippines - The Philippines joined countries all around the globe in celebrating the 2nd International Day of Yoga (IDY). Embassy of India, in partnership with Asia Society Philippines, Art of Living, Iyengar Yoga Centre, Speedo, Science of Identity (SIF) Foundation and Urban Ashram Yoga, prepared a half-day wellness and cultural program last June 18, 2016 at Ayala Triangle Gardens.
United Nations declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga (IDY) in December 2014. June 21 was chosen as it is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and shares special significance in many parts of the world. In his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said “Yoga embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between man and nature, and a holistic approach to health and well-being”
The program kicked off with an ethnic Asian fusion performance by Atomic Soul, a group under the Science of Identity (SIF) Foundation. Mr. Chandru Mahtani briefly discussed the importance and benefits of Yoga. Indian Ambassador LD Ralte gave some welcoming remarks, and thanked all the partners and sponsors. Mr. Mahtani, together with his students, took the stage again to explain and demonstrate the Common Yoga Protocol - a series of basic Yoga poses as prescribed by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
Participants cooled down and relaxed with meditation and breathing exercises led by Art of Living Foundation. This was followed by another Kirtan Yoga or Sound Yoga performance, this time by Janar Group.
Nica Hechanova of Urban Ashram led the participants through a series of sun salutations and poses, accompanied by feel-good music. The last demonstration was by Rina Ortiz of Iyengar Yoga Center Manila. Iyengar Yoga focuses on the alignment of the physical, anatomical, physiological, and psychological body. Ms. Ortiz demonstrated a few asana, while instructors among the crowd helped correct participants’ alignment and posture.
The evening ended with a bang, with a rocking performance of Om Hari Om by Mantra Kirtana. People sang and danced, and left the venue with happy hearts and relaxed minds.
The event was sponsored by Wipro Philippines and supported by India Tourism, Lulu-Phils International Exchange Inc, Mahindra Philippines, New India Assurance, and Tamber Tours & Travels. Ayala Land was the venue partner and Make it Makati and WheninManila.com were media partners.