Guv, minister lead Yoga Day celebrations

Bhubaneswar: People from all age groups and from varied walks of life took part in the 9th International Day of Yoga celebrations and practised yoga sessions in the state on Wednesday.
Various events, including yoga sessions, workshops and seminars promoting the benefits of this ancient practice were held on the occasion.
Governor Ganeshi Lal practised yoga at Raj Bhavan while railways minister Ashwini Vaishnaw performed yoga in Balasore, about 25 km from the tragic triple-train accident site. BJP MP Pratap Sarangi accompanied him along with hundreds of people.
The events took place in public places like parks, community centres, schools and also on online platforms. Trained yoga instructors guided participants through various yogic postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama) and meditation techniques.
“Participants experience physical benefits of increased flexibility, strength and improved posture. Additionally, yoga helps in reducing stress, anxiety and promotes mindfulness leading to a calm and focused mind,” said Narayan Nanda, a city-based yoga therapist.
Over 5,000 staff of KIIT & KISS took part in the event on its premises on Wednesday. Besides, many schools and institutes, residential colonies also conducted mass yoga sessions.