Lathika Anne and her mother Anne Lisa joining the crowd at the Penang International Yoga Day event at Penang City Park. — Photos: CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
A LONG day at work ends with a yoga session at home for 37-year-old pharmacist Anne Lisa, and that practice is keeping her in good spirits.
Having done this for the past 15 years, she is now joined by her daughter, six-year-old Lathika Anne Sree.
“I noticed that my immunity has improved and I feel healthier since taking up yoga.
“Every evening after work, I spend some time doing yoga at home.
Participants performing an asana at the yoga event organised by Malaysia Hindhudharma Mamandram Penang Branch.
“Not just for the body, yoga improves the mind and focus too,” she said at Penang City Park (previously known as Penang Youth Park) to celebrate International Yoga Day 2024.
They were among over 100 people who gathered for the three-hour yoga session.
Eight-year-old G.Thaanushiaa, who was there with her 14-year-old sister and 13-year-old brother, brought her own mat for the session.
“I started practising yoga two years ago with my brother and sister,” she said.
“It helps me sleep better at night and my performance in school has also improved,” she added.
Penang youth, sports and health committee chairman Daniel Gooi who launched the event commended Malaysia Hindudharma Mamandram Penang Branch for organising the yoga session with support of Penang Island City Council, Perfect Life Yoga Asia Academy as well as nine other yoga centres from Penang and Kulim.
Young Thaanushiaa (right) all bright and alert as she joined the yoga session at Penang City Park.
He said it was a day to symbolise unity, peace, and holistic well-being while allowing for reaffirmation to a healthier and more harmonious world.
“Over the past six years, Penang has been a proud host of the International Yoga Day celebrations.
“This day has become more than just a commemoration; it has evolved into a testament of our community’s shared values and commitment to health and wellness.
“One of the remarkable trends we have witnessed in recent years is the increasing popularity of yoga.
“It is heartening to see more men and women embracing this ancient practice, which transcends gender and age boundaries.
“The presence of male participants and professional male yoga instructors highlights the universal appeal and inclusivity of yoga as a way of life,” he said, urging those present to share the benefits of yoga with others.
“Together, we can create a more compassionate and connected society.”
Also present at the event was Malaysia Hindudharma Mamandram Penang branch chairman Thanabalan Nanda Kumar.
