A total of 2121 people made a Guinness World Record when they held Yoga's Cobra pose for two minutes and nine seconds in Gujarat's Vadnagar on Saturday. According to Richard Stunning, official adjudicator at Guinness World Records, a record with a title for the most people performing the cobra pose in yoga began on Saturday. The minimum number of participants for the record was 250; they had to hold the Yoga Cobra pose for at least a minute. A total of 2184 participants breached the one-minute timeline; they ended up holding the cobra pose for two minutes and nine seconds. The Guinness World Records discounted 64 participants, after which 2121 participants held the cobra pose for two minutes and nine seconds to clinch the Guinness World Record. "The Guinness World Records title that starts today is the most people performing the cobra pose in yoga, simultaneously. We set a guideline that everyone had to do it for at least a minute each, and we set a minimum target of 250 participants. Today, they did it for more than a minute, they did it for two minutes and nine seconds, and the total was 2185. We had to discount 64 participants. So the confirmed title is 2121 participants. Given we set a minimum of 250, this is smashing the Guinness World Record. Congratulations to everyone involved, and it's a fantastic achievement", Richard Stunning told ANI. Meanwhile, Gujarat Health Minister Rishikesh Patel expressed his happiness over the achievement and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the achievement. "The world is happy with the gift that India has given to it, and PM Modi did it... As PM Modi says, This Yoga is for everyone", he told ANI. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel performed Yoga on the occasion of International Yoga Day. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the main national event on the 11th International Yoga Day from Visakhapatnam. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
21 June,2025 02:33 PM IST | Gujarat | ANIWith the participation of over three lakh people, the main national event held here on Saturday to mark the 11th International Day of Yoga, created a new Guinness World Record for the largest gathering for a yoga session at one place. Prime minister Narendra Modi led the event by performing Common Yoga Protocol with 3.01 lakh people on RK Beach. He was joined by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Governor S. Abdul Nazeer, Central and state ministers. The event was held on a 28-km stretch from RK Beach to Bhogapuram. It broke the record set in 2023 by Surat by hosting a yoga session with 1.47 lakh participants at one location. There was enthusiasm among participants in the colourful event, which marked the culmination of a month-long ‘Yogandhra’ campaign. Leaders of political parties, bureaucrats, government employees, professionals, eminent people from various walks of life, youth, students, women, senior citizens and children performed yoga asanas along the coast. About 11,000 Navy personnel and their family members also joined the mega event. Eastern Naval Command also organised yoga sessions on Naval ships anchored off Visakhapatnam. The Visakhapatnam event concluded the successful month-long Yogandhra campaign that engaged 2.17 crore participants statewide, creating several records. The event showcased yoga’s universal appeal, with participants ranging from tribal communities to urban professionals united in celebrating this ancient practice. Authorities had established 326 designated compartments where participants performed asanas in a synchronised manner. Each compartment was assigned specific individuals, with coordination planned through 607 Urban Secretariats, along with additional personnel from rural secretariats. After the event, representatives of Guinness Book of World Records handed over certificate to state ministers Nara Lokesh and Satya Kumar. The ministers also received another certificate for a Guinness Record for the mass surya namaskar event held in Visakhapatnam on Friday. A total of 22,122 tribal students participated in the surya namaskar event. Lokesh expressed satisfaction over the successful conduct of the main event and stated that it was organised to give Prime Minister Narendra Modi the gift of Guinness Book of World Record. The minister stated that the event was successful beyond their expectations. Calling it a victory of people of Andhra, he attributed the success to the awareness created among people through month-long campaign. Referring to the words of praise from the Prime Minister, Lokesh said this has increased his responsibilities. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
21 June,2025 01:18 PM IST | Visakhapatnam | IANSIt's before sunrise on a Saturday and a small group has gathered at Socialite Bar in on the outskirts of Zimbabwe's capital. Instead of nursing hangovers, they sit with eyes closed and bodies in meditative poses on the bare floor. It's an unlikely setting for a yoga class. In Zimbabwe, the practice is rare and mostly found in the wealthy suburbs. Yet it is quietly taking root here in a beer tavern in Chitungwiza, a low-income town 30 km outside the capital, Harare. The initiative is led by Actions Winya, a yoga instructor who saw how economic hardship and social pressures were damaging the mental health of people in his hometown. 'Yoga is expensive... but we also got humans in the ghetto. They need mental wellness,¿ said Winya, who usually teaches in affluent areas, charging between USD 30 and USD 100 a month. That's an impossible cost for most, especially in a country where many survive through informal jobs. Since 2023, Winya has been offering free weekend classes to some of those hardest hit by Zimbabwe's economic problems. The sessions have become a source of relief for people navigating relentless challenges. Authorities acknowledge a growing societal crisis worsened by drug abuse, domestic violence and poverty, compounded by a shortage of public health services and therapists. ¿I am a coach, so they bring the stuff that they face within families (to me). This is where we come in and say, Guys, come and try yoga, it can help somehow,'¿ Winya said. Yoga, an ancient Indian practice, has become a multibillion-dollar industry and a daily ritual for millions around the world. The United Nations over a decade ago designated June 21 as International Day of Yoga. In Africa, other countries like Kenya and South Africa are introducing yoga to poorer communities, with the Indian government promoting its spread across the continent. Inside the tavern in Zimbabwe, mellow music played as about a dozen participants moved through poses. They had no mats, just a cold brick floor, but plenty of determination for inner peace. One mother tried to stay focused as her toddler dashed around, disrupting her poses. For 47-year-old John Mahwaya, the practice has been transforming. A father of four, he also supports relatives in the countryside, a responsibility he said once weighed heavily on his mental health. 'My head was always spinning. I thought I was losing my mind, and the stress started causing back pains,¿ he said. ¿Yoga helps me relax and clear my mind. I sleep peacefully these days' He said many Zimbabwean men bottle up their emotions, afraid to show weakness in a highly patriarchal society that prizes toughness. 'We focus on physical fitness, forgetting the mind,¿ he said. We suffer slowly, but what suffers first is the mind, and from there, it becomes a slow death.' Edinah Makosa, 24, joined the class earlier this year and said it gave her hope. 'I used to be depressed a lot. You know, for people my age, our main stressors are unemployment and relationships,¿ she said. 'Yoga changed my mindset. I used to think negatively all the time. Now I have started selling beauty products to earn a living. As for romance, well if it works, it works; if it doesn't, it doesn't. I no longer stress about men. I go with the flow.¿ As they practiced, the sounds of township life seeped in. Taxi drivers shouted for passengers. Vendors pushed carts, calling out to potential customers. 'We need a proper environment and studio. But we are trying,' Winya said. For participants like Mahwaya, the location didn't matter nearly as much as the healing. 'We need to promote yoga in the communities because everyone has a mind. And fitness of the mind is the responsibility of everyone, regardless of where you live,' he said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
21 June,2025 11:06 AM IST | Chitungwiza (Zimbabwe) | APOver two thousand yoga enthusiasts in Japan joined on Saturday to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga. The event was inaugurated by Yoshiko Ishiba, wife of the Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. The grand event was held at the Buddhist Temple Tsukiji Hongwanji in Tokyo in the early morning. This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” underscores the holistic connection between individual well-being and planetary health. Indian Ambassador to Japan Sibi George addressed the huge gathering of participants who came together in large numbers to celebrate the ancient Indian practice that continues to unite people across cultures and borders. Satoko Iwaya, wife of the Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, graced the occasion. It also witnessed the participation of Reverend Myoken Hayama and Reverend Tomohiro Kimura of Tsukiji Hongwanji, Joice Sibi, wife of the Indian Ambassador, senior government officials, Resident Ambassadors and diplomats, and friends of India in Japan. Glimpses of the 11th International Day of Yoga 2025 in Tokyo! 🇮🇳🧘♀️🇯🇵Inaugurated by Madam Yoshiko Ishiba, Spouse of Hon’ble PM of Japan.Occasion was graced by Madam Satoko Iwaya, Spouse of the Hon’ble Foreign Minister. Ambassador @AmbSibiGeorge addressed the gathering of… pic.twitter.com/3GZBm6m7DV — India in Japanインド大使館 (@IndianEmbTokyo) June 21, 2025 Earlier on Friday, the 11th IDY was celebrated at the Osaka Expo 2025 in Japan. “Ambassador of India to Japan Sibi George and Vice Governor of Osaka Prefecture Shigeki Watanabe inaugurated the celebrations and joined the collective yoga session alongside thousands of yoga enthusiasts,” the Indian Embassy in Tokyo posted on X. Now in its 11th year, the International Day of Yoga has evolved into a global phenomenon. The day is observed across continents and cultures, and India continues to play a pivotal role in promoting mindfulness, discipline, and sustainable living through the practice of yoga. The 2025 theme, 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health,' has further emphasised the connection between personal well-being and planetary health, aligning with India's broader vision of global harmony through traditional wisdom. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that Yoga gives the world the direction of peace at a time when it is witnessing conflicts, unrest and instability. On the 11th International Day of Yoga, he urged the international community to let this Yoga Day mark the beginning of Yoga for Humanity 2.0 where inner peace becomes global policy. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
21 June,2025 10:51 AM IST | Tokyo | IANSMarking the 11th International Day of Yoga, members of the Indian diaspora and local communities across the United Kingdom came together in large numbers to celebrate the ancient Indian practice that continues to unite people across cultures and borders. This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” underscores the holistic connection between individual well-being and planetary health. From iconic London landmarks to the serene campuses of Oxford and Cambridge, yoga mats were unrolled at various venues, drawing enthusiastic participation from people of all ages and backgrounds. Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, highlighted the significance of this year’s celebrations, stating, “This year, under the special theme of International Yoga Day suggested by India, the focus was to take yoga to as many places as possible. Our cultural centre organised Yoga Day events across several locations in the UK, particularly in major university towns such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Southampton, in collaboration with many partners.” In London, a large public yoga session was held in the heart of the city, where historic architecture offered a stunning backdrop to a vibrant display of unity and wellness. The event was open and free to all, attracting a wide spectrum of participants. One resident shared their experience, saying, “We’re celebrating the 11th International Day of Yoga at a free event open to everyone here in London. It’s a magnificent day, with the city’s historic buildings providing a beautiful backdrop. It’s truly a privilege to be part of this celebration, to come together and practice yoga. I love yoga, and I believe everyone should try it.” The Indian High Commission and its cultural wing also engaged with local yoga studios, community organisations, and universities to extend the reach of Yoga Day beyond metropolitan centres, ensuring inclusivity and broader participation. As yoga continues to gain global popularity, the International Day of Yoga has become a cornerstone of India’s cultural diplomacy, promoting health, harmony, and shared humanity. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
21 June,2025 10:27 AM IST | London | IANSThe Indian Army personnel celebrated International Yoga Day across the Himalayas, turning the harshest terrains into sanctuaries of mindfulness and wellness. Demonstrating extraordinary resolve and spiritual resilience, army personnel practiced yoga amidst the icy vastness at Shahi Kangri Lake, nestled at a staggering 20,000 feet. "Amidst the icy expanse of Shahi Kangri Lake at 20,000 feet, Indian Army marked the International Yoga Day 2025 with unwavering resolve and inner still.In a place where every breath is a challenge, soldiers embraced the timeless discipline of yoga -- a source of strength, clarity, and resilience enhancing mental focus, emotional balance and physical endurance even in the harshest of conditions," posted Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army on X. Army jawans embraced yoga as a practice of endurance and unity, reinforcing both physical fitness and mental fortitude at the iconic Galwan Valley (15,000 feet). "Indian Army personnel embraced Yoga to boost physical fitness and mental well-being.Yoga has been practiced at Galwan Valley, located at an altitude of over 15,000 feet," posted Fire and Fury Corps. The soldiers also performed yoga further east, the majestic Pangong Tso and surrounding border villages with chants and synchronised asanas, celebrating yoga's core message: "One Earth, One Health." "On International Yoga Day 2025, Indian Army honoured the timeless heritage of yoga at banks of majestic Pangong Tso and nearby border villages. A holistic practice that promotes physical health, mental clarity and emotional resilience."Yoga for One Earth, One Health," posted Fire and Fury Corps. Along the Siachen Glacier, the world's highest battlefield, yoga was practiced from base camp to forward posts, symbolising inner peace amid external extremes. "Indian Army practiced Yoga at Siachen Glacier...From Base Camp to forward posts, the 11th #InternationalDayofYoga echoed resilience, unity & wellness in the world's toughest terrain," the post said. Meanwhile, in the picturesque Nubra Valley, army personnel joined hands with local communities to mark the day, turning it into a collective celebration of harmony and health. The stage is set for the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) to be celebrated with grandeur on June 21, with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the national event from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The theme for this year is "Yoga for One Earth, One Health" echoes India's vision of global wellness. The theme reflects the integrated vision of well-being. It emphasises the interconnectedness of human and planetary health, drawing from the Indian ethos of "Sarve Santu Niramaya" (May all be free from disease). The Prime Minister will perform the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) with over 3 lakh participants at the Visakhapatnam venue, synchronised with over 10 lakh locations across the country under the 'Yoga Sangam' initiative, Ministry of AYUSH said. The mass demonstration will be held from 6:30 AM to 7:45 AM, and is expected to witness unprecedented participation from all corners of the country. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
21 June,2025 09:20 AM IST | New Delhi | ANIThe Consulate General of India (CGI) in New York, in association with the Town of Greenburgh and the Indian Cultural Association of North America (ICANA), celebrated International Day of Yoga 2025 in Westchester with vibrant participation. In a post on X, the CGI in New York said the event showcased yoga's universal appeal and its message of harmony and well-being. It added that the celebration was organised in collaboration with the Town of Greenburgh and ICANA to mark International Day of Yoga 2025. Building on the momentum of the Westchester event, the Consulate also hosted a vibrant yoga session at Times Square in collaboration with @TimesSquareNYC, bringing the spirit of International Yoga Day to one of the world's most iconic locations. Sharing glimpses of the event on X, the Consulate General of India in New York wrote, "CGI New York, in collaboration with @TimesSquareNYC, hosted a vibrant Yoga Session at the iconic Crossroads of the World - Times Square! Here are a few more glimpses from this energizing celebration of wellness and unity. #YogaforOneEarthOneHealth." Extending the celebrations beyond New York, similar events were held in Washington, DC, where the Indian Embassy organised a vibrant Yoga session at the iconic Lincoln Memorial on Thursday (local time), ahead of International Day of Yoga on June 21. The event saw enthusiastic participation from a large number of people, including members of the Indian diaspora and local residents, showcasing the growing global embrace of yoga. Speaking at the event, India's Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, said, "We are all here to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga. An enormous, great, fun-filled celebration of India's ancient civilisation heritage in the form of Yoga. A large number of extended Indian families and the Indian diaspora are present with us here, along with the other citizens of the US. It's a wonderful day, a wonderful experience for us...I want to thank everybody for being here with us this morning to celebrate this heritage from India..." Yoga and meditation instructor Acharya Govind Brahmachari, who led the session, highlighted Yoga's deeper purpose beyond physical fitness. "Yoga is widely popular already. We want to bring yoga to every household worldwide because it has many benefits. The deeper aspects of yoga are perhaps not so much known yet. We are here to spread awareness of the original purpose of yoga to actually attain a sense of freedom or oneness with the universe. So that's a deeper aspect of yoga that's very much related to meditation. Then the yoga postures, which are known as yoga asanas, are a part of the practice, part of a holistic system to support the mind, to attain freedom from unpleasant feelings and emotions and thoughts," he said. Dr Smita Patel, a participant at the session, praised the initiative and highlighted the health benefits of yoga. "I would like to congratulate Prime Minister Modi for starting this 11 years ago, and I liked today's theme 'One Earth, One Health'. As a physician, I believe yoga is as essential as breathing and taking medication. Yoga helps reduce anxiety, improve depression, and for children, it helps their attention span, concentration, ability to focus on a task, and ability to complete a task," she said. Acharya Madhuvartanand Avdhut from Ananda Marga Yoga and Meditation Centre also shared his thoughts, saying, "The first yogi was Lord Shiva, who came to this earth 7000 years ago. Yoga has three different parts. Yog Asana, Yog Darshan and Yog Sadhana... Yoga is a multi-faceted approach to healthy living. Yoga can bring world peace and it can unite human society..."
21 June,2025 08:27 AM IST | Westchester [US] | ANIOn the 11th International Day of Yoga, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) performed yoga on the banks of Pangong Tso at Border Outposts (BOPs) Dhan Singh Thapa and Chartse, located at 14,100-14,200 feet. The visuals show the 24th Battalion of ITBP officials performing yoga at the banks of the lake, Pangong Tso. Earlier, on Friday, the 54th Battalion of ITBP performed yoga in a lead up to International Yoga Day. Sharing the visuals on X, ITBP wrote, "54 Bn #ITBP organised a yoga session as a prelude to International Yoga Day 2025. Himveers participated with zeal, reinforcing the spirit of wellness and discipline." 4th Corps of ITBP, Dirang (Arunachal Pradesh) organised yoga sessions at an altitude above 12000 feet. Sharing on X, ITBP wrote, "4th Corps #ITBP, Dirang (Arunachal Pradesh) organised yoga sessions and cleanliness drives at the Corps Headquarters and forward posts at altitudes above 12000 feet." ITBP held several yoga sessions last week as a prelude to the International Yoga Day. Meanwhile, the Indian Coast Guard officials united at Visakhapatnam to celebrate International Yoga Day, and the CG Ship Rani Abbakka practised yoga on Tamil Nadu's sacred shores. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Visakhapatnam on Friday evening, where he will lead the celebrations for the International Yoga Day. The theme for this year is "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," which echoes India's vision of global wellness and reflects the integrated vision of well-being. It emphasises the interconnectedness of human and planetary health, drawing from the Indian ethos of "Sarve Santu Niramaya" (May all be free from disease). According to the Ministry of AYUSH, the Prime Minister will perform the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) with over 3 lakh participants at the Visakhapatnam venue, synchronised with over 10 lakh locations across the country under the 'Yoga Sangam' initiative. The mass demonstration will be held from 6:30 to 7:45 AM and is expected to attract unprecedented participation from all over the country. He will be joined by Union Minister of State (IC) Ayush, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav, and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu in a massive demonstration of India's global wellness vision. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
21 June,2025 08:03 AM IST | Leh (Ladakh) | ANIWhen Mumbai-based dance professional Shivani Gawde was going through a tough time in 2021, she found solace in music. “My dad was admitted in hospital and I had to fulfill many ‘adulting’ responsibilities. It was an overwhelming time,” she opens up about her experience. Sharing how music became her anchor back then, Gawde says, “My dad and I share a common love for ‘ghazals’. So, I would sit beside him in the hospital and play songs for him, and that’s how we got through the day. During that time, I was part of an online community where music artistes used to gather and just jam. They would also take requests. On one particularly overwhelming day, when my dad was asleep in the hospital, I put in a request for the song ‘Aaj Jaane Ki Zidd Na Karo’, which we both love. The artiste sang the song, and that memory is locked with me forever. In that moment, I felt okay.” Besides the song itself, the 33-year-old also found solace in the moral support the artistes and the community extended to her, and she also ended up with a friend. Gawde is one of many people who have turned to music for comfort and peace. For 22-year-old Vaishnavi Trivedi, music is not just a place of comfort but a non-judgemental space that helps her feel things. “Music helps me navigate through my emotions the way I want to. Along with music, dance helps me channel my feelings. Every time, even at work, when I feel too overwhelmed, I just sway to music and have my own mini concert,” she reveals. But why do people feel so connected to music? “Music, with different lyrics and compositions, has the ability to give words to our feelings – even those that are difficult to express, or those that we might not be explicitly aware of. It gives a sense of feeling visible and validated in such situations. Music has the power to make us feel less lonely in our experiences as we get an assurance that someone somewhere is experiencing similar feelings,” explains Utkarsha Jagga, a Delhi-based counselling psychologist and founder of The Coping Central, a mental health service. Beyond the tough times, music is a companion for many even in moments of happiness, acting as a source of motivation or joy. Dr Shambhavi Das, an Indian classical vocalist and music therapist, states, “Music naturally has a frequency that gives happiness and connects to emotions, memories, and a sense of identity. This frequency is pleasing to the senses, and has the ability to reach parts of the mind that logic and conversations cannot. Music is deeply woven into the fabric of human existence.” She also highlights that music aligns the vibrations, or frequencies, of the universe with those of the human body, bringing a sense of comfort, safety and belongingness. For 29-year-old Dhruvan Sharma, music is a constant element in his life, irrespective of his mood and circumstances. “For me, it is a medium of getting transported to a different place,” he states. “If I am going for a run, I might listen to upbeat music. In spiritual moments, I might listen to a ‘Shabad’ or religious songs. These days, I am listening to music that makes me feel I am amidst the mountains, and brings nostalgia,” he reveals. While music may be a source of comfort and happiness in day-to-day life, beyond casual listening, it is often used in clinical settings as a tool to work on mental well-being. “Listening to music can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), elevate dopamine (associated with pleasure), and even improve heart rate and sleep quality. Whether through structured music therapy or casual listening, music activates areas of the brain involved in emotion regulation, memory and reward,” states Jagga. Several studies in the field of neuroscience, psychology and music therapy have demonstrated positive results related to effects of music on emotions and brain function. One such study, published in June in the journal eClinicalMedicine, which is a part of The Lancet Discovery Science, found that music therapy may offer effective interventions for reducing anxiety symptoms. Another study published in June 2023 in the European Journal of Public Health suggested that active (music-making and singing) and passive (listening) music activities can positively influence health and well-being for people above the age of 40. What kind of music facilitates mental well-being? Experts state that different kinds of music aid well-being in different situations. “There isn’t necessarily a one-size-fits-all when it comes to music and feeling good. It’s often dependent upon our mood and the life space we have been in,” states Jagga. She adds, “Slower tempos, soothing melodies, and gentle instrumentation often support relaxation and emotional regulation. For some, upbeat or nostalgic music can be energising and uplifting. Music with affirming lyrics or that evokes a sense of meaning and connection can also support healing.” Dr Das, on the other hand, highlights the three types of music that are often used in music therapy. “There are three categories: slow melodic music which reduces stress and anxiety, steady music that helps in emotional regulation and facilitating acceptance and self-love, and rhythmic music that boosts energy, focus and motivation,” she informs. Additionally, she also states that music that blends sounds from nature aids in sleep and relaxation, and chanting mantras, or meditative music, facilitates creativity and calmness of mind. However, this cannot be generalised, she states. Music: Therapy or therapeutic? Given the deep-rooted impact of music in our lives, it is not uncommon for many to confuse listening to music with therapy, however, experts warn that this notion could be harmful. “Music is inherently therapeutic. We, as humans, have never been away from music. It aligns with us psychologically and physiologically,” states Dr Das, adding, “However, music can be considered therapy only in structured, clinical settings where it is used as a tool by mental health professionals to achieve a particular goal relating to mental well-being.” Jagga further states, “Music can absolutely be therapeutic, but it’s not a substitute for therapy. However, music can be a powerful tool within therapy, especially in music therapy – a field where trained therapists use musical interventions to address psychological goals. So, while music on its own is deeply supportive, healing and regulating, it’s best seen as a complement to therapy, not a replacement for it.”
20 June,2025 11:11 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainJust like the humble karela, the lauki is ignored on the vegetable cart by most people except those who know the true importance of including them in your diet. If the taste doesn't give you any motivation, let the health benefits of bottle gourd convince you to consume them during the rainy season. Mumbai health experts say the gourd, which is popularly called lauki in Hindi, is not only important for digestion but also aids in other bodily functions during this time of the year. As monsoon season gets underway, mid-day spoke to Jinal Patel, dietitian at Zynova Shalby hospital in Ghatkopar West, and Ushakiran Sisodia, chief dietitian at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre to highlight the importance of consuming bottle gourd during the monsoon. They not only shed light on its health benefits but also tell you how to make it more interesting for you to consume during this time of the year. What are the health benefits of bottle gourd?Patel: Bottle gourd, also known as lauki, dudhi, or sorakaya, is a powerhouse of nutrients and has been used in Indian households and Ayurvedic remedies for centuries. Rich in water content (about 92 per cent), it helps keep the body hydrated and cool, especially during the hot summer months.Sisodia: Bottle gourd helps cure poor digestion because it is good for those having digestive issues. It is also good for those looking to lose weight and helps diabetics to lower blood sugar levels. The gourd also has cooling effects and improves well-being. From nutrition point of view, it is 92 per cent water and has low proteins making it more beneficial for kidney patients, and those having high blood pressure. The low-calorie and high-fibre content will help in aiding weight loss. The fibre can relieve constipation. The low glycaemic index makes it a suitable vegetable to keep blood sugar levels in range for cardiac patients as it is rich in potassium and antioxidants, really cool for having blood pressure and control cholesterol levels. Is there any difference in the benefits of bottle gourd as compared to other gourds?Patel: Low in calories and high in dietary fiber, bottle gourd supports digestion, prevents constipation, and promotes weight loss—making it a favorite among those on a fitness journey. Its high water content also helps in flushing out toxins from the body and supports kidney health. Due to its alkaline nature, bottle gourd helps in managing acidity and improving overall gut health. Additionally, its mild sedative properties can help reduce stress and promote better sleep. Lastly, what are the dishes that people can make with bottle gourd to make it interesting?Patel: Whether cooked as a sabzi, made into soup, or consumed as juice, bottle gourd is a simple yet powerful vegetable that offers multiple health benefits, making it an essential part of a balanced diet.Bottle gourd juice, when consumed in moderation, is known to regulate blood pressure, control cholesterol levels, and support heart health. It is also beneficial for people with diabetes, as it helps regulate blood sugar levels. Sisodia: The many dishes you can make with bottle gourd are dudhi raita, thepla, stuffed paratha, and dudhi halwa with skimmed milk powder. You can even have juice by adding beetroot to it. You can use as side vegetables with main dish and even can be added to dal preparations.
20 June,2025 08:16 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoYoga is a journey towards inner peace and harmony than just physical exercise, said Saima Wazed, Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia on Friday, ahead of the International Day of Yoga (IDY). The International Day of Yoga is marked annually on June 21. The theme this year is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health". "Yoga is more than just physical exercise. It is a journey towards inner peace and harmony, and teaches us to listen to our bodies and to live mindfully," Wazed said. The WHO Regional Director stated that practising yoga can help people become more aware of the surroundings, and nature. "In a world facing environmental challenges, yoga offers a path to sustainability by encouraging us to live simply, consume mindfully, and respect the natural world," Wazed noted. "In embracing yoga, we can reduce our ecological footprint and contribute to a healthier planet," she added. Yoga encourages to protect clean air, pure water, and fertile soil -- essential for our well-being. These vital resources ensure a thriving planet for future generations. She cited several studies which showed that 77 per cent of people report feeling physically stronger after practicing yoga regularly. More than 80 per cent of patients with chronic inflammation experienced a nearly 50 per cent reduction in inflammation after just six weeks of daily yoga. Further, studies have also proved how yoga can help mental health. A study by Harvard Medical School found that 60 per cent of participants with depression experienced a significant reduction in symptoms after practicing yoga twice a week for eight weeks. "Today, on International Day of Yoga, let us remember that every breath is a gift from nature, and every moment of mindfulness is a step towards a healthier future. Let us create a world of health and harmony, of mind, body and planet," Wazed added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
20 June,2025 04:22 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
