Times of Yoga brings together Kochi residents

Kochi: An International Yoga Day event titled Times of Yoga was held on Saturday at Ivy League Apartments in Kakkanad as part of a pan-India wellness initiative. The programme was based on this year's theme, Yoga for One Earth, One Health.

Organised by The Times of India in association with Welcare Hospital, Bank of India, Redporch Nest, Vaidyaratnam, Plumeria Holidays, Chittilappilly Square, Luxon Motors, and The Art of Living, the event featured a two-hour wellness session from 7am to 9am.

People of all age groups—from children to senior citizens—participated, united by a shared commitment to health and well-being.

The session was led by Raj Gopal Krishnan, an accomplished yoga instructor and general secretary of the India Yoga Association (Kerala Chapter), who is also an international faculty member at The Art of Living. He guided participants through a sequence of postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness practices tailored to all skill levels.

"The session was inclusive and relaxing—great for beginners," said Vrinda Menon, a resident.

Eighty-year-old Chidambaran KK from Ernakulam said, "Yoga keeps me energetic. Though my limbs were stiff at first, it has helped my flexibility and health over the years."

Children, too, enjoyed the experience. "I learned new asanas, and the instructor even told jokes!" said Class V student Ameya Rahul.

Welcare Hospital also set up a kiosk for basic health screenings. Chief operating officer of the hospital Dr Thomas Mathew also handed over privilege cards offering residents discounts on consultations and other services.

"Yoga reminds us to pause and care for our inner peace," Krishnan said, reflecting on the day's significance.