Yoga not confined to any religion: Guv

Uttarakhand Governor  KK Paul has said Yoga is a comprehensive means of placing the human body and mind in balance with nature and has the unique capability of saving people from the harmful effects of chemicals released within our bodies  due to stress and tension. “Yoga plays a significant role in helping a person attain his mental and physical well being and realise his potential,” he said while addressing, as chief guest, the inaugural session of the three-day national conference on “Yoga for wellness in life” organised by Dev Sanskriti Vishwa Vidyalaya at Shantikunj,  Haridwar.

The Governor said that Yoga was an integral part of Indian civilisation, culture and way of life and was not confined to any one religion. “This scientific and disciplined way of life has been practised by the sages since ancient times and been handed down  from one generation to the next.”  He said that the entire world now was now following the practice of Yoga, having  recognised it on scientific basis. He said that Yoga was a unique and balanced synthesis of physical kriyas, asans, pranayam and dhyan which disciplines the human mind and body and inspires a person towards positive thoughts  while inculcating virtues like patience, sensitivity and compassion .

Describing the conference as relevant for the present times, the Governor said he was confident that the meet would prove beneficial for the welfare of society. Dr Pranav Pandya, Chancellor of the University, elucidated the importance of yoga with the help of Geeta Shloks. Aside from physical abnormalities, yoga also corrects mental abnormalities. 

Dr Kamakhya Kumar, convener of the seminar, said in the next three days, students will learn different ashans and their benefits and will do practicals on them too.  Several research papers will also be presented during the seminar, he added.