Kenya has strong potential for yoga growth, says Indian envoy Swaika

India's High Commissioner to Kenya Ardash Swaika has said there is significant potential for yoga to become more popular in Kenya as interest in the practice continues to grow across the country.

Speaking during celebrations to mark the International Day of Yoga at the Oshwal Centre in Nairobi on Sunday, Swaika said the High Commission of India has witnessed increasing interest in yoga and remains committed to supporting its expansion.

"This day was designated by the United Nations in 2014 as the International Day of Yoga," he said.

"Yoga originated thousands of years ago in India and today it is considered one of the most effective practices for mental and physical well-being."

Swaika said he was encouraged by the large turnout at the event that included children and the elderly from all walks of life. 

UN director general Zainab Hawa, who also attended the yoga session described yoga as a practical reminder that physical and mental well-being are interconnected.

The high commissioner noted that yoga's accessibility makes it suitable for people from all walks of life.

"We feel that there is a lot of potential for yoga to become more popular in Kenya," he said. "As the High Commission of India in Kenya, we organise daily yoga classes at the High Commission and we welcome people to join those classes and be part of this yoga journey."

Swaika said yoga can be practised anywhere and does not require expensive facilities or equipment, making it accessible to a wide range of people.

He cited a recent chair yoga session organised at the United Nations offices in Nairobi, saying it demonstrated how office workers can incorporate simple exercises into their daily routines.

"People who spend long hours sitting and doing desk jobs can even take five minutes to stretch while seated on their chairs," he said.

According to the envoy, yoga offers tailored exercises for people living with conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure and diabetes. He said the practice requires little space and can be done at home, in a garden or in open areas.

Addressing efforts to promote yoga in Kenya, Swaika said the High Commission has organised sessions in several parts of the country, including Nanyuki, Kisumu and Nakuru.

The mission has also partnered with institutions such as the University of Nairobi, the United States International University (USIU), the Indian Public School and the United Nations offices in Nairobi.

"We see a lot of yoga institutions all over the country and we are very happy that it is gaining ground," he said.

"The High Commission is always willing to support the efforts of yoga practitioners and yoga studios to further promote the practice of yoga." While noting that some yoga exercises may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, Swaika said trained instructors are able to guide participants appropriately. "I would say that it is one of the best forms of exercise available to humanity today," he said.

The event formed part of global celebrations marking the International Day of Yoga, observed annually on June 21 following its adoption by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014.