WIDE-EYED and eager, six-year-old T. Triyambigai joined her aunt on the mat for an International Yoga Day event at SMK Hamid Khan in George Town, Penang.
The youngster was clearly excited to be taking part along with some 100 participants in a two-hour session organised by Arutjothee Yoga Academy.
Triyambigai enthusiastically followed yoga teacher R. Kasthuri Kalaichelvi’s instructions by moving, stretching, balancing and doing poses alongside the adults.
“I love running, jumping and skipping.
“My aunt showed me some simple poses at home. I especially like the bending poses.”
Engineer N. Mekala said her niece was curious about the session and wanted to join.
“She has done yoga at her kindergarten, so she understands what it’s all about.
“I brought her today so that she can enjoy herself and spend quality time with me,” said Mekala.
Jenny Teh, who attended the programme after being coaxed by her friend, said she felt good after the event.
It was also her first time trying yoga.
“I was a little nervous at first because I didn’t know what to expect. But after the session, I felt more relaxed and refreshed.
“I will definitely consider taking up yoga to improve my breathing and overall well-being,” she said.
Kasthuri said yoga was often associated with physical flexibility and strength, but its impact on mental health was just as profound.
“Mental health is just as important as physical health, and yoga offers a holistic approach to nurturing both.
“In today’s fast-paced world, many people are dealing with stress, anxiety and emotional fatigue.
“Yoga provides a safe space to slow down, reconnect with the breath and become more aware of our thoughts and feelings,” she added.
Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh, who launched the event, praised the academy, founded in 2000, for its contributions to community well-being.
“What stands out to me about this academy’s approach is its grounding in therapeutic yoga.
“Because the practice is centred on breathing technique rather than physical intensity, it is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or physical condition.
“This inclusiveness is, I believe, the true strength of what is being taught here.”
He said yoga showed that good health need not be complicated or out of reach.
“Often, the most valuable tools for our well-being are already within us,” he added.
Ramkarpal later joined the participants in a stretching session.
