June 19, (THEWILL)- Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has written to Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari on the health benefits of Yoga, particularly in boosting immunity and helping recovery from COVID-19.
Modi, in a letter dated May 14, 2021, to the President, recalled the overwhelming response of the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, to recognise June 21 as International Day of Yoga.
He said since then, the day had been marked globally with great fervour.
Femi Adesina, Media spokesman to President Buhari, disclosed that the Prime Minister stated that: “In a few weeks, the world will mark the seventh International Day of Yoga. Like the year gone by, this year’s International Day of Yoga will also be marked under the shadow of the COVID-19 global pandemic.
“In the midst of this monumental challenge, our COVID-19 warriors have waged a remarkable fight against the pandemic.”
The letter added that: “While the threat of the pandemic remains, there have been positive developments since the last International Day of Yoga. In addition to various treatment protocols, scientific understanding about the virus, we now also have several vaccines to protect our people from the pandemic. Vaccination drives are underway in several nations, including India. I remain optimistic that humanity shall overcome the pandemic very soon.
“The theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga is ‘Yoga for Wellness,’ which is particularly relevant in the current context.”
On the health benefits of Yoga, the Prime minister said: “Yoga has many benefits for the body as well as for the mind. Despite all the efforts and precautions, COVID-19 may infect any person. However, a strong immune system can aid in the fight against it. Yoga can help build that immunity, for instance, through breathing exercises that strengthen the lungs. At the same time, across the world, millions of people have been forced to stay indoors for months. This has taken a toll on their mental health as well. Regular practice of Yoga can also help them recover.
“Yoga has an inherent power to connect. Yoga is good for community, immunity and unity. The theme of International Day of Yoga celebrations this year reflects the concern for the good health and wellbeing of people across the globe. It is an endeavour to ensure that we focus on fitness as well as wellness.”
Modi expressed gratitude for the cooperation and efforts extended in making the International Day of Yoga celebrations a resounding success in Nigeria every year, hoping that this year will be no different.
“Please accept my best wishes to you, your family and your citizens, for good health and well-being”, the letter added.
