Celebrating The First International Day of Yoga

SPECIAL REPORT: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA
MADRID, SPAIN
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre
With the support of the Indian Embassy and 12 local yoga schools, the International Day
of Yoga in Madrid was a wonderful event. Similar celebrations took place in over fifty cities
throughout Spain, including Granada, at the affiliated Sivananda Centre, and Barcelona with
the support of the Sivananda Satsang Group.
The event in Plaza de Colón in Madrid began with an open air master Yoga class and an
address by Mr. Vikram Misri, the Ambassador of India and Mrs. Manuela Carmena, the new
mayor of Madrid. The mayor visited the Sivananda stand and received information about our
programmes. Over 1,500 people participated in the asana and pranayama class organised by the
Government of India which was shown on a big video screen. Afterwards, the Sivananda Yoga
Centre conducted a 30 minute traditional asana and pranayama session parallel to other yoga
schools. Over 60 teachers and karma yogis from the Madrid Centre participated in the class.
In the afternoon, the Ambassador of India and representatives of different yoga schools
including the Sivananda Yoga Centre participated in a conference to discuss the various
aspects of Yoga (health, consciousness and spirituality).
The International Yoga Day Celebration made a very important impact in the media,
opening the news on several television news programmes.
MONTREAL, CANADA
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre
At the Montreal Centre we began the International Yoga Day festivities with a wonderful
Satsang and Yoga Class with Swami Shivabhaktananda. This gave a good grounding for the
day and Swamiji explained the significance of ‘International Yoga day.’ Many teachers, karma
yogis and students from the centre congregated, as well as staff and guests from the Ashram.
A strong sense of community and purpose was felt by those participating. It continued with a
breakfast and gathering, where people had the opportunity to connect with one another.
Prahlada led the walk up Mont Royal, where some Asana Demos were performed, both
of which created interest by people passing. The group were on hand to distribute flyers and
magazines to those who were curious; they were feeling inspired to spread the message of
yoga!! Eventually we settled at a peaceful area by the lake where the group began to chant,
later Prahlada shared some stories about Swami Vishnudevananda. It gave a good insight to
Swamiji and his mission. There was much joy and smiles expressed about the event from
those who participated, and they appreciated being involved in something meaningful. It was
an encouraging day and the vibration was high. There was a great sincerity amongst the ever
growing community. We are ever thankful for Master and Swamiji Vishnu’s grace.
YOGALife |Autumn/Winter 2015
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