By TWV Team
In today’s fast-paced world, the pursuit of mental and physical wellness has become a priority for many. From gym workouts and road running to hiking and wellness retreats, individuals across the globe are embracing various physical activities to improve their overall well-being.
In Kenya, one practice has increasingly captured the imagination of fitness and wellness enthusiasts – yoga. Rooted in the Indian subcontinent, yoga is an ancient discipline that blends physical, mental, and spiritual practices. The word “yoga” itself means “to join” or “to unite,” symbolising the union of body and consciousness. Today, yoga is practised in diverse forms around the world and continues to gain popularity as both a fitness regimen and a spiritual journey.
On 21 June, the Indian High Commission in Kenya hosted a large-scale yoga festival at the Sikh Union Club of Kenya, attracting over 2,500 participants. The event was graced by Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano, along with senior government officials, corporate CEOs, diplomats, and political leaders. “A consistent yoga practice brings clarity to the mind and strength to the body, which is a step toward mindful leadership and holistic well-being,” said CS Miano.
She praised yoga as a tool that has helped her navigate the demands of public service and invited both Kenyans and international visitors to explore Kenya’s serene landscapes as ideal settings for yoga retreats.
India’s long-serving Prime Minister Narendra Modi is widely credited with championing yoga on the global stage, using it as a soft power instrument to promote peace, harmony, and cross-cultural unity. His efforts culminated in a landmark moment on 11 December 2014, when the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 69/131, proclaiming 21 June as the International Day of Yoga (IDY).
Proposed by India and co-sponsored by a record 175 UN member states, the resolution recognised yoga’s universal appeal and its benefits to physical and mental well-being. Since then, IDY has been commemorated annually in world capitals, with events organised by India’s 191 High Commissions and Consulates worldwide. These celebrations have played a key role in strengthening India’s diplomatic ties and enhancing its global cultural footprint. Yoga has thus become one of India’s most successful cultural exports and a powerful symbol of its commitment to global peace and wellness.
