Yin Yoga Session: A testament to tranquility and well-being

“Yoga is the fountain of youth. You’re only as young as your spine is flexible”

—Bob Harper

On the tranquil morning of April 6, 2024, Apeejay School International (ASI) in South Delhi became the epicentre of a profound journey as a renowned yoga practitioner Ms Ira Trivedi graced the school grounds with an immersive Yin Yoga Session. 

 Trivedi, born in Lucknow, is an author, columnist, and yoga teacher. She writes both fiction and non-fiction, often on issues related to women. However, her passion for yoga while she was a student at Wellesley College in 2006 while pursuing a degree in Economics; she also went on to complete her MBA from Columbia University. At the same time, she also completed Acharya training from the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre.

Welcomed warmly by the school’s Principal, Mr Purshottam Dutt Vashist, along with eager students and faculty members, Trivedi’s session commenced at 7:30 am and promised an hour of holistic rejuvenation. With soft, soothing melodies serving as a backdrop, the session invited participants to connect deeply with their bodies, minds, and souls. Nearly 35-40 individuals, clad in comfortable attire, gathered to partake in this unique experience. Following a gentle warm-up, Trivedi led the group in chanting the sacred Om setting the tone for mindfulness.

This was followed by the ancient practice of Mahamrityanjay jaap. Trivedi illuminated the significance of early morning yoga, emphasising the importance of rituals like Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations). As the sun began its ascent, participants flowed seamlessly through Sun Salutation poses, synchronising breath with movement to harness the vitality of the dawn.

The highlight of the session was her hands-on approach as she assisted people in achieving optimal postures. Infusing the atmosphere with positivity, Trivedi radiated vibrations of encouragement, fostering a collective sense of well-being and harmony.

Reflecting on the transformative power of yoga, she also urged the participants to cultivate inner peace rather than succumbing to anger and frustration. “Instead of venting out your frustrations, you must practice yoga; let us find solace in meditation,” Trivedi advised.

Following the session, attendees expressed their gratitude and admiration for Trivedi. Binny, a regular attendee, effused: “I love the sessions given by Ira. She is amazing.” Another participant, Anmol, traveled from Gurugram to partake in the event, declaring it ‘the session as beautiful as the day itself’.

In a brief interaction, Trivedi shared her passion for yoga, spanning over two decades, and praised the hospitality extended by the Principal. “I have been to many schools but I must say that ASI comes at the top. Students and teachers need to practice yoga as it is very important for an individual’s overall mental well-being. Since the lifestyle is different and pertains to long sitting hours, a yoga session shall help unveil all kinds of stress,” Trivedi shared.

The session encompassed a variety of yoga postures, including the Banana posture, vajraasnaa, and Cat-Cow pose, each contributing to a holistic experience of mind-body alignment. As the session drew to a close, participants concluded with the traditional gesture of rubbing palms together and placing them over vital points, culminating in a heartfelt vote of thanks.

“It was great to see our school community come together for the Yin yoga event organised by Ms Ira Trivedi at the ASI campus. Yoga not only promotes physical health but also enhances mental clarity and emotional balance. Let’s continue to embrace holistic well-being practices for a healthier and happier future,” Mr Vashist opined.

In the serene ambiance of Apeejay School International, Ira Trivedi’s Yin Yoga session proved to be a transformative journey, enriching participants with a deeper connection to themselves and the world around them. As the sun ascended, the echoes of tranquility lingered, serving as a testament to the enduring power of yoga to uplift and inspire.