MORE than a hundred people, including children and senior citizens, were up bright and early yesterday to participate in the world’s first International Day of Yoga at Raisethorpe Secondary School grounds.
The Midlands Hindu Society with the consulate-general of India and Department of Sports and Recreation, enlisted Swamini Anbu Karisie, a 77-year-old renunciate and yoga teacher, to demonstrate the ancient discipline to the group.
“It was an absolutely wonderful morning together. This serves as a holistic experience to create balance in the homes and in our lives. It was really good to see families join in and on Father’s Day too,” said public relations officer for the Midlands Hindu Society, Sherry Mahabeer.
Swamini Karisie and co-instructor Rani Appasamy, from the Saiva Sithanda Sungum in Pietermaritzburg, brought peace and serenity to the crowds through yoga for more than an hour.
Members of the Divine Life Society walked around assisting people with their positions.
Divaar Pillay (7) said he enjoyed the early morning session with his grandfather.
“I really liked the exercise and after doing yoga I feel much better,” said Pillay.
Principal of H.S. Ebrahim School and Training Centre for the mentally disabled Ruby Naidoo was accompanied to the yoga session by pupils from the school hostel.
“Yoga speaks to the mind, body and spirit and my learners loved it,” said Naidoo.
Msunduzi Mayor Chris Ndlela, clad in his tracksuit and takkies, sat meditating and participated in the yoga session.
“Yoga speaks about connection with the holy spirit and helps in living a longer and healthy life. I enjoyed my morning doing some yoga and will definitely be pursuing it further,” said Ndlela
