First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones will lead celebrations to mark this year’s International Yoga Day with the UK’s biggest ever yoga class.
Up to 1,000 people are expected to turn up to the free yoga class on Sunday 19th June at 10am at the National Indoor Athletics Centre, at Cardiff Metropolitan University’s Cyncoed Campus.
Even the First Minister of Wales will be at the event for the mass class and yoga enthusiasts of all levels of experience are welcome to join in. There will be classes for different abilities, from complete beginners to veteran yogis, and there is capacity for well over 1,000 people inside the indoor running track and organisers are expecting a record turn-out and there will be a few surprise activities on the day.
The event has been arranged by the Honorary Consul of India for Wales, Raj Aggarwal OBE, who has been practising the ancient Indian physical, mental and spiritual discipline for many years.
In preparation for the big day Mr Aggarwal took a small class with the current Miss Wales Ffiona Moyle, 23, Miss Swansea Sophie Bell, 18, and Miss Newport Georgia Phasey, 18, at his Central Pharmacy in Cardiff.
Speaking about his support for the event, the First Minister Carwyn Jones said:
“I am pleased to take part in this global event to celebrate the 5000 year-old practice of yoga, which originated in North India. Wales has a strong relationship with India and I have been fortunate to visit the vast and beautiful country many times in recent years as we continue to develop our valued business ties.”
“Yoga is not only a great way for people to keep fit and healthy, it also helps focus the mind and allows people to relax and unwind from the stresses and strains of modern life.”
And the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi – also sent a personal message of support for the Cardiff event which will be relayed on the day – called for the adoption of June 21 as International Day of Yoga during an address to UN General Assembly in September 2014 stating:
“Yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfilment – harmony between man and nature and a holistic approach to health and well-being. It is not about exercise but to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and nature.
In Suggesting June 21 – the summer solstice – as the International Day of Yoga, Mr. Narendra Modi added:
“The date is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and has special significance in many parts of the world.”
Recognising its universal appeal and following this address, in December 2014, the United Nations declared June 21 International Yoga Day and it was observed globally for the first time last year. Over 175 nations co-sponsored the resolution – the highest number to ever co-sponsor such a resolution.
Speaking about his support for the event, the First Minister said:
“Yoga is not only a great way for people to keep fit and healthy, it also helps focus the mind and allows people to relax and unwind from the stresses and strains of modern life.
“I am pleased to take part in this global event to celebrate the 5000 year-old practice of yoga, which originated in North India. Wales has a strong relationship with India and I have been fortunate to visit the vast and beautiful country many times in recent years as we continue to develop our valued business ties.”
Honorary Consul of India for Wales, Raj Aggarwal added:
“We are delighted that the First Minister will be joining us to celebrate International Yoga Day – a great opportunity for Cardiff and Wales as a whole to join the world in celebrating this timeless practice, which can be enjoyed by all; young or old, it does not discriminate and promotes respect for fellow human beings and the planet.
“For those new to yoga, this could be a taster, or for those experienced, a slightly different type of session to enjoy – the message is that all are welcome, so come and join us!”
International Yoga Day at Cardiff Metropolitan University will be celebrated on Sunday, 19th June between 10am and 11:30am. The day will include yoga demonstrations and guest participation. Individuals of all ages are welcome and encouraged to bring friends and family.
