Gandhinagar, June 21 (IANS) Describing yoga as “an excellent art of living life” rather than merely a form of exercise, Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat on Sunday said the ancient Indian discipline continues to offer solutions to modern-day challenges ranging from mental stress to lifestyle-related illnesses.

The Governor was addressing participants during the celebration of the 12th International Yoga Day at Lok Bhavan in Gandhinagar, where officials, employees and local residents gathered for a mass yoga session.

Extending his greetings on the occasion, Acharya Devvrat highlighted the significance of yoga in maintaining both physical and mental well-being.

He said yoga is a thousands-year-old Indian science and tradition that has long been regarded as a foundation for health and spiritual advancement.

“Yoga is not merely an exercise, but an excellent art of living life. In today’s lifestyle, yoga is the best medium to protect ourselves from mental stress and various lifestyle-related diseases,” he emphasised.

He said regular practice of yoga and pranayama not only helps keep the body healthy but also allows individuals to remain focused, calm and positive.

The Governor urged people to make yoga an integral part of their daily lives and work towards the goal of a “healthy body and healthy mind”.

The Governor also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts in promoting yoga globally.

“The Prime Minister’s commitment and initiatives had helped yoga gain international recognition and connected crores of people around the world with India’s cultural heritage,” he said.

According to Acharya Devvrat, yoga is also helping foster the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, the belief that the world is one family, by bringing people together across countries and cultures.

Following the programme, the Governor administered a pledge encouraging participants to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Among those present were Dr Jayanti Ravi, Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department; Ashok Sharma, Principal Secretary of Lok Bhavan; A.K. Joshi, Director of House Administration; along with other officials, employees of Lok Bhavan and citizens.

–IANS

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