WASHINGTON: Yoga, practiced by millions of Americans daily, underscores deep cultural ties between India and the US, the White House has said on the occasion of second International Day of Yoga.
"There are millions of Americans who benefit from the studious pursuit of yoga and there are many mental and physical health benefits associated with those who pursue this practice regularly," White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest told reporters.
"It underscores the deep cultural ties between our two countries. It certainly is a way that the American people have benefited from the rich and ancient culture of India," Earnest said.
In December 2014, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution with a record number of 177 co-sponsoring member states to declare June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.
Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard greeted people on the occasion
of International Yoga Day.
"While many people view yoga simply as a way to increase flexibility and strength, today is a wonderful day to learn and celebrate the benefits that yoga offers," she said.
"This spirit of yoga enables us to transcend and overcome the external differences that can be so divisive, here at home and around the world, and instead truly respect and love one another," Gabbard said, the first Hindu elected to the US House of Representatives.
The Maryland Governor issued a proclamation commemorating the International Day of Yoga. Proclamations were also issued by the Governor of Illinois, Mayor of Chicago.
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Despite rain, over 500 yoga lovers across Houston rolled out their mats at sprawling Discovery Green lawn before they stretched themselves in various postures to mark the second International Yoga Day (IYD).
Consulate General of India, Houston, in partnership with Patanjali Yogpeeth (USA), Yoga studios and several community and supporting organisations made the event a huge success.
"It was our pleasure to bring together a large number of diverse Houstonians and institutions for celebrating IYD in a befitting manner.
My sincere thanks to all organisers, supporters and sponsors of this event for their contribution towards the IYD," said Anupam Ray, Consul General of India.
Agroup session featured three Yogis leading hundreds in an hour long yoga session in the park.
In a separate group, acro yoga practitioners invited visitors to try their hand at the acrobatic form of yoga.
After the yoga session, the celebration ended with the throwing of seven traditional colours into the air. Each represented a different virtue from love to peace to power.
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