Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in India. International Yoga Day is a global celebration of the ancient practice of yoga, which aims to harmonise body, mind, and spirit. The International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21st. The theme of International Yoga Day changes every year, reflecting different aspects and benefits of yoga such as health, wellness, peace, harmony, and environment. The theme for this year is “Yoga for Women Empowerment.”

The Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing, MAHE, Manipal, in collaboration with the Division of Yoga, Centre for Integrative Medicine and Research (CIMR), MAHE, Manipal, conducted a guest lecture on June 13, 2024, as part of International Day of Yoga 2024. The topic for the Guest Lecture was “Yoga for Women Empowerment”. Dr Neetinakumar Patil, Associate Professor, Division of Yoga, CIMR, MAHE, Manipal, was the resource person. It was conducted at Interact Lecture Hall for fourth-semester BSc Nursing students. A total of 138 participants, including students and faculty, attended the session. Dr. Neetinakumar Patil explained the definition of yoga, the purpose of yoga, the four paths of yoga, and the sequence of yoga sessions. He emphasized pranayama, meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation, concepts of yoga in connection with mind, emotion, sense organs, stress, and multitasking; and its significance for nursing professionals. He highlighted the benefits of yoga for women and the enhancement of women’s well-being through yoga. The session was deliberated along with many relevant examples and a practice session of pranayama.

This program contributed to achieving the following SDGs:

SDG 3: Good health and well-being

SDG 4: Quality Education

The program was coordinated by Mrs. Janet Prameela Dsouza, Assistant Professor – Senior Scale, under the guidance of Dr. Jyothi Chakrabarty, Professor, and Head, Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing, MAHE, Manipal.