The 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) was celebrated with great enthusiasm and collective spirit at JMN Medical College and Hospital under the national initiative Yoga Sangam 2025. The event witnessed the participation of faculty members, medical staff, and students, all joining hands to promote the holistic values of yoga as a pathway to physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Before the session began, all attendees gathered at the venue and collected their designated dress kits. All participants adhered to the prescribed dress code—JMN Yoga T-shirt and Pyjama, which was distributed by the college prior to the event. There were approximately 50 participants, including students, faculty members, and administrative staff.
The session began promptly at 7:00 AM and was inaugurated by Principal Dr. (Prof.) Amita Ray, who offered her welcome address and emphasized the role of yoga in nurturing the mind-body connection, especially in the context of healthcare and medical education.
The yoga demonstration began with a dynamic and energizing round of Suryanamaskar, gracefully led by Mr. S.N. Singh (DGM). As he performed the asanas, he also explained the physiological benefits of each phase of the sun salutation, particularly its ability to improve circulation, enhance flexibility, and stimulate the endocrine system. Following this, the session transitioned into standing postures, conducted by Mr. Harsh Kumar Shaw (IT Executive). He demonstrated important postures such as Trikonasana (Triangle Pose), Vrikshasana (Tree Pose), Padahastasana (Hand to Foot Pose), and Utkatasana (Chair Pose). Each pose was accompanied by a brief explanation of its alignment techniques and health benefits, including improved balance, spinal alignment, and concentration. Next, the session moved into seated postures, guided by Ms. Shreya Ghosh from the HR Department, who skilfully demonstrated poses such as Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose), Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend), and Vakrasana (Spinal Twist) to promote hip opening, digestion, and spinal elongation. She was joined by Aditi Prasad, a first-year medical student, who showcased postures for spinal and back pain relief, including Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist Pose) and Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose). She has also done a project on “Importance of yoga in our life” in school. Their calm and steady movements resonated with the participants and encouraged mindful practice.
In a highlight of the session, Principal Dr. (Prof.) Amita Ray herself led the participants through the practice of Matsyasana (Fish Pose), demonstrating its restorative effects on the spine and the respiratory system. Her demonstration was a moment of inspiration for all present, emphasizing the value of yoga at all levels of physical ability.
Throughout the session, each yoga posture was accompanied by a brief oral demonstration of its health benefits, ensuring participants were both physically engaged and intellectually informed.
To bring the practice to a calm and centered closure, a guided meditation session was conducted by Mr. Harsh Kumar Shaw. Participants were gently led into stillness, awareness of breath, and mental clarity—a deeply reflective end to a dynamic morning.
The event concluded with a group photograph capturing the collective spirit of the day, followed by a nutritious breakfast comprising Dalia with vegetables, sprouts salad, and milk. The meal underscored the day’s commitment to health and well-being, providing a perfect start to the morning.
