India has highlighted yoga as a practical response to the growing challenges of ageing and stress in contemporary society, encouraging Nigerians to embrace the ancient discipline as a pathway to healthier and longer lives.
Speaking at the 12th International Day of Yoga celebration held at the Velodrome of the National Stadium in Abuja on Saturday, the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh, described yoga as an effective tool for promoting healthy ageing, physical fitness, emotional balance and mental well-being.
The event, themed “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” attracted diplomats, government officials, students, members of the Indian community and wellness enthusiasts, reflecting the growing global acceptance of yoga beyond its Indian origins.
Singh said the theme was chosen in response to increasing concerns over health challenges associated with ageing populations and sedentary lifestyles worldwide.
According to him, many ailments commonly linked to old age can be prevented or delayed through regular yoga practice.
“The message we want to convey is that people can remain active and youthful even in old age if they make yoga a part of their lives. It is a simple but effective way of promoting healthy ageing,” he said.
The envoy described yoga as one of India’s enduring contributions to global wellness, noting that its benefits extend beyond physical exercise to include mental and emotional health.
He observed that in an increasingly fast-paced and demanding world, yoga provides an opportunity for individuals to reconnect with themselves, improve focus and manage stress more effectively.
Singh explained that yoga combines breathing techniques, stretching, gentle movements and mindfulness practices that help improve flexibility, balance, strength and mobility while enhancing mental resilience.
He further noted that yoga has evolved into a universal language of wellness and peace that transcends geographical, cultural and linguistic boundaries.
The High Commissioner recalled that the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014 following a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a move that helped transform yoga into a global movement for healthier living.
He said the large turnout at the Abuja celebration demonstrated yoga’s growing relevance in addressing contemporary health concerns and its ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds in pursuit of better health and well-being.
Singh commended the National Sports Commission, officials of the Indian High Commission and other partners for supporting the programme, while urging Nigerians to adopt yoga as a daily lifestyle practice.
According to him, healthy ageing begins with conscious lifestyle choices and preventive healthcare measures, with yoga offering a simple and accessible means of achieving both.
