In a remarkable display of unity and wellness, the Southern Command conducted Yoga Diwas 2023 across 30 military stations, spreading the practice of yoga and meditation among its personnel. The mega yoga session, organized in hybrid mode through the Iyengar Yoga Group, saw the participation of 35,000 individuals, including soldiers, officers, and their families, from ten states.
Led by Lt Gen Ajai Kumar Singh, GOC-in-C of Southern Command, the event emphasized the significance of reconnecting with traditional Indian practices of yoga and meditation to enhance inner wellness. Lt Gen Ajai Kumar Singh highlighted that the soldiers’ journey naturally aligns with the principles of yoga, as they embody the various aspects of the eight-fold path of yogic life. These include Yama (positive attitude and action), Niyama (discipline and routine), Asana (physical exercise), Pranayama (breathing techniques during physical activity), Pratyahara (non-attachment), Dharana (concentration), and potentially leading to higher states of Dhyan (meditation) and Samadhi (living in the present moment). He encouraged participants to embrace these principles and live life with awareness to achieve unconditional joy.
The yoga sessions were not limited to military stations but also extended to remote border locations such as Laungewala, Tanot, Ghotaru, Kishangarh, Bhuj, and Lakhpat in Rajasthan and Gujarat. In these areas, both uniformed personnel and the civilian population actively participated in yoga practices, creating awareness and fostering a strong bond of brotherhood between the civil and defense communities.
The event served as a powerful platform to promote the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of individuals within the Southern Command. Through the practice of yoga and meditation, participants were able to experience the numerous benefits of these ancient disciplines, including stress reduction, enhanced focus, flexibility, and overall holistic development.
Yoga Diwas 2023 at Southern Command stands as a testament to the organization’s commitment to the welfare and growth of its personnel. By incorporating yoga into their routine, soldiers and their families can cultivate a healthier lifestyle and nurture a sense of balance and harmony in their lives. The event also reinforced the deep-rooted connection between Indian traditions and the armed forces, highlighting the significance of embracing our cultural heritage while serving the nation.
As the Southern Command continues to prioritize the well-being of its personnel, initiatives like Yoga Diwas play a pivotal role in fostering unity, resilience, and a sense of collective purpose. By integrating yoga into the military lifestyle, the command sets a positive example for the entire nation, promoting the importance of physical and mental fitness in achieving excellence in every sphere of life.
