Conversation on Yoga for Health – IYD 2017

On the occasion of the 3rd International Day of Yoga, a special event on ‘Conversation on Yoga for Health’ was organized at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, in the prestigious ECOSOC Chamber on 21 June 2017. The event was organised by the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in association with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Department of Public Information of the United Nations.

Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji – Muniji, President of Parmarth Niketan (Rishikesh), Co-Founder of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati ji, Secretary-General of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, President, Divine Shakti Foundation, Mr. Keith Mitchell 59, Former NFL (USA football) athlete turned yogi, Mr. Stanton Kawer, CEO, Blue Chip Marketing Worldwide, USA, Swami Sivadasananda, Sivananda Yoga Retreat, Austria and Mr. Anupam Kher, Actor and Social Activist, India were on the distinguished panel.

The ancient science of Yoga continues to be practiced by millions across the globe as it ‘works’. The regular practice of Yoga has a direct and visible impact on improving physical and mental health and contributes to social harmony and wellbeing. By helping us tune our inner selves with our surroundings comprising all nature including fellow human beings, Yoga contributes to wider societal wellbeing. Yoga promotes the practice of sustainable lifestyles leading to a better harmony between people and the planet.

The United Nations endorsed the vision of Prime Minister Modi by adopting the UNGA resolution A/Res/69/131 that proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga. The resolution notes ‘the importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health’.
During the end HH Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji lead a beautiful pledge of oneness, inspiring everyone, including Anupam Kherji, Dr Nata Menabde and the Ambassador of India to the UN, Mr Syed Akbaruddin, to take Yoga from global to local, starting in their own lives and with their own self. All of the participants deeply moved stood up, joining hands, chanting in unison the sound of Om as it powerfully reverberated throughout the hall, ending the historic International Yoga Day conversation on Yoga in Health and leaving everyone with a lot of deep insight and inspiration.

Video of the Conversation on Yoga for Health – International Day of Yoga 2017 broadcasted #LIVE by the UN: http://webtv.un.org/search/conversation-on-yoga-for-health-international-day-of-yoga-2017/5479145849001?term=yoga

Watch Highlights of the event: https://www.facebook.com/IndiaAtUN/videos/1394927573929629/

Click here to see photos!