World Meditation Day was celebrated on December 21 at Thiruvanmiyur Beach, marking the occasion with community spirit and the practice of mindfulness through yoga and meditation.
The event, organized collaboratively by the Eastern Coast Beach Walkers Association (ECBWA) and the Vethathri Maharishi Yoga Centre (MVKM Trust), began early at 6:30 am and saw more than 50 enthusiastic participants. This observance fell under the recently declared International Day of Meditation by the United Nations General Assembly, which aims to promote the benefits of meditation globally.
Participants engaged in various yoga and meditation practices led by esteemed instructors from the MVKM Trust. Renowned yoga teachers including Prof. Balakrishnan, Prof. Nayanar, Prof. Bhavani, and Prof. Sugirthakumar guided attendees through the sessions. The tranquil beach setting provided the perfect backdrop for reflection and connection with nature.
To complement the morning's activities, refreshments including tea and snacks were provided to all participants. Prof. R. Thanasekaran, the Secretary of ECBWA, expressed gratitude to everyone attending, underscoring the importance of community involvement in such wellness initiatives. He stated, "All yoga teachers were honoured," highlighting the contributions of the instructors who dedicated their time to promote physical and mental well-being.
This gathering not only served to celebrate World Meditation Day but also to strengthen community bonds and encourage individuals to incorporate meditation and yoga practices regularly. Participants expressed their appreciation for the event, noting its impact on improving their overall health and mindfulness.
The observance at Thiruvanmiyur Beach is part of a broader initiative to increase awareness around mental health and well-being across communities. By fostering environments where individuals can practice meditation, the ECBWA and MVKM Trust are contributing to the movement of holistic wellness and self-care.
Events like these serve as reminders of the value of meditation and physical wellness, promoting healthier lifestyles and greater community cohesion. Through collective efforts, organizations hope to inspire more individuals to explore the benefits of yoga and meditation and participate in future events dedicated to these practices.
World Meditation Day continues to serve as a platform for promoting mental health awareness and mindfulness across the globe, with local observances like this highlighting the power of community and shared wellness practices.