Ban recalls that it took him a while to gain balance when he tried yoga for the first time in Delhi, but he soon felt it was accessible for anyone.
"And yoga does not discriminate; to varying degrees, all people can practise, regardless of their relative strength, age or ability. I discovered this for myself on trying to do my first asana, a tree pose suited to beginners. It took a moment for me to gain my balance, but once I did, I appreciated the simple sense of satisfaction that yoga can bring," the UN chief said.
In celebrating June 21 as the International Day of Yoga, the UN General Assembly has recognized the "holistic benefits of this timeless practice and its inherent compatibility with the principles and values of the United Nations," Ban said.
"Yoga offers a simple, accessible and inclusive means to promote physical and spiritual health and well-being. It promotes respect for one's fellow human beings and for the planet we share," he said.
Ban asked the nations to "see the benefits of this practice in terms of individual well-being, as well as our collective efforts to improve public health, promote peaceful relations and usher in a life of dignity for all."
The 193-member UNGA adopted the resolution to celebrate June 21 as International Day of Yoga was accepted in record time, and a record 177 countries co-sponsored the India-led resolution.
Huge preparations are afoot across USA to celebrate the day with India’s External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj expected to head the celebrations at the UN and Times Square.
(Image credit: Indiatimes)