SF Consulate, Community Organizations Host 11th International Yoga Day

India-West Staff Reporter

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The Association of Indo Americans (AIA), in collaboration with the Consulate General of India, San Francisco and the India Community Center (ICC), celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga on June 22. The event, aligned with the global theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” drew over 250 enthusiastic participants.

The celebration began with welcoming remarks from various dignitaries. Abhishek Sharma, Consul at the Consulate General of India, delivered a speech emphasizing the scientific relevance and holistic benefits of consistent yoga practice, including its positive effects on stress reduction, mental clarity, and physical well-being. Other speakers, including Milpitas Mayor  Carmen Montano, Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee, Santa Clara Councilmember Raj Chahal, Sunnyvale Councilmember Murali Srinivasan, Manoj Goel from ICC, and Sister Kusum from Brahma Kumaris, collectively highlighted yoga’s significance in daily life and its adaptability to individual needs.

The program featured practical sessions designed to enhance well-being. Sister Kusum led a session on “Meditation and Self-Transformation,” focusing on inner peace and mental clarity. Following this, yoga expert Manoj Sharma guided participants through the Common Yoga Protocol, demonstrating essential asanas and breathing techniques such such as Yogasanas, Kapalbhati, Pranayama, Dhyana, Sankalpa, and Meditation. Dr. Ambili Sudhakaran then conducted a session on Deep Relaxation Techniques, providing hands-on practice and stressing the importance of accessible, high-quality yoga training.

.