Sri Vijaya Puram, June 15: With the 12th International Day of Yoga approaching, a unique wellness initiative unfolded along the shores of Karmatang Beach in Mayabunder, where participants gathered for a Beach Yoga Camp aimed at promoting healthy living, mindfulness and holistic well-being.
The programme was organised by Dr. R.P. Hospital, Mayabunder, as part of the ongoing observance of International Day of Yoga 2026. Set against the backdrop of the sea and open skies, the event brought together yoga enthusiasts, health-conscious residents and community members for a morning dedicated to physical fitness and mental wellness.
Participants performed a range of yoga asanas under the guidance of trained instructors, using the tranquil beach environment as a natural setting for practice. The combination of fresh sea breeze, open space and scenic surroundings created an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and concentration, reinforcing the connection between nature and well-being.
Organisers said the objective of the camp was to encourage individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles through regular yoga practice while highlighting the role of yoga in maintaining physical and mental balance. The event also formed part of wider efforts to increase public participation in activities leading up to International Day of Yoga, which is observed globally on June 21.
In addition to yoga postures, participants took part in a dedicated pranayama session focusing on controlled breathing techniques. These exercises were designed to promote relaxation, improve respiratory health and reduce stress levels. Instructors explained how pranayama can contribute to overall wellness by enhancing concentration, emotional stability and physical endurance.
The session was led by Dr. Priyanka Iqbal, Medical Officer (Ayurveda), and Mangat Bhagat, Yoga Instructor from Dr. R.P. Hospital, Mayabunder. They guided participants through various yoga practices and encouraged them to incorporate yoga into their daily routines as a sustainable approach to health management.
Health officials noted that yoga continues to gain popularity as a preventive healthcare practice due to its ability to improve flexibility, strength and mental resilience. Regular practice is also associated with better stress management and overall quality of life.
The beach camp reflected the broader theme of promoting wellness in community settings and demonstrated how public spaces can be utilized to encourage healthy habits. By conducting the programme outdoors, organisers sought to make yoga more accessible and engaging for people of different age groups and fitness levels.
Across the country, preparations are underway for International Day of Yoga 2026, with government departments, healthcare institutions, educational establishments and community organisations conducting awareness campaigns and yoga sessions. The observance aims to spread awareness about the benefits of yoga and encourage its adoption as a way of life.
In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, several departments and institutions have been organising events in the lead-up to June 21, reflecting growing public interest in wellness-oriented activities. Programmes such as the Karmatang Beach Yoga Camp are intended to foster community participation while promoting the message of preventive healthcare and healthy living.
Participants at the camp expressed enthusiasm about practicing yoga in a natural setting and welcomed initiatives that combine physical activity with environmental appreciation. The scenic location added a unique dimension to the experience, allowing attendees to engage in wellness practices while enjoying one of North and Middle Andaman’s most well-known beaches.
Officials said such programmes not only contribute to individual health but also help build awareness about the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. As International Day of Yoga approaches, similar events are expected to continue across the islands, encouraging residents to embrace yoga as a tool for long-term physical, mental and emotional well-being.
