"Stretching for a Healthier Tomorrow: Aditya Dhanjraj Marks International Yoga Day 2024"

Can you tell me about your project related to health and well-being? What was its main goal?

As a MyGov Campus Ambassador, I organized an International Yoga Day event under the guidance of the Ministry of AYUSH. The main goal was to promote good health and well-being (SDG 3) by encouraging people to adopt yoga as a daily practice. Over 100 participants joined, including youth and elders, highlighting the importance of physical fitness, mental peace, and a healthy lifestyle. The project aimed to raise awareness and inspire long-term commitment to holistic wellness through yoga.

What inspired you to choose this particular health issue for your project?

I was inspired to choose this health issue because I believe mental and physical well-being are the foundation of a productive and happy life. In today’s fast-paced world, stress, anxiety, and lifestyle-related illnesses are rising. Yoga, being a natural and accessible solution, connects body and mind, offering balance and peace. I wanted to empower people—especially youth—to take control of their health through simple, daily practices that promote long-term wellness and align with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

Can you share some of the activities or actions you took as part of your project?

As part of my project, I organized a community yoga session on International Yoga Day, where over 100 participants joined. I coordinated with local volunteers and promoted the event through social media and local networks. We conducted guided yoga practices, including asanas, breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation. I also gave a short talk on the importance of SDG 3 and how yoga supports physical and mental well-being. Additionally, we encouraged participants to take a pledge for daily yoga practice.

How did you and your team work together to make your project successful?

To make the project successful, my team and I worked with clear coordination and shared responsibilities. We divided tasks such as event promotion, participant registration, venue setup, and coordination with yoga instructors. Regular meetings helped us stay on track and resolve challenges quickly. We used social media and local networks to spread awareness and invite participants. On the event day, each team member ensured smooth execution—from managing the crowd to distributing yoga mats—making the event impactful, organized, and well-received by the community.

Did you face any challenges while working on your project? How did you overcome them?

Yes, we faced a few challenges while working on the project. One major challenge was mobilizing participants, especially early in the morning. To overcome this, we created engaging promotional content and personally reached out to local youth groups and community members. Another challenge was arranging a suitable venue and coordinating logistics like mats, sound system, and water. We managed this by seeking local support and collaborating with volunteers. Teamwork, planning, and community involvement helped us overcome these hurdles effectively.

What do you think was the most important thing you learned from working on this project?

The most important thing I learned from this project was the power of community engagement in creating positive change. I realized that when people come together with a shared purpose—like promoting health and well-being—they can truly make a difference. I also learned the value of planning, teamwork, and clear communication. Most importantly, I understood that small efforts, like a yoga session, can inspire others to adopt healthier lifestyles and contribute meaningfully to achieving the goals of SDG 3.

Can you describe any positive changes or improvements you observed as a result of your project?

Yes, after the successful completion of the project, several positive changes were observed in the community. Many participants shared that they felt more energized, relaxed, and motivated to continue practicing yoga regularly. Some even formed small groups to meet and practice yoga daily. There was a noticeable increase in awareness about the importance of physical and mental well-being, especially among the youth. People who had never tried yoga before felt inspired to adopt it as part of their lifestyle. The event also fostered a sense of unity and collective action, encouraging community members to support each other’s wellness journeys. Additionally, conversations around health and SDG 3 became more frequent in local discussions, which was a great step towards long-term awareness. These small but meaningful changes reflected the impact of our efforts and showed that the project had sparked a lasting interest in health and well-being within the community.

Did you receive any feedback from your classmates, teachers, or community members about your project? If so, what was it?

Yes, I received positive feedback from classmates, teachers, and community members. They appreciated the event’s purpose, organization, and impact. Many felt inspired to continue practicing yoga and praised the initiative for promoting SDG 3. Their support motivated me to plan more such activities.

How do you feel your project has contributed to promoting health and well-being among your peers or in your community?

My project helped promote health and well-being by encouraging people—especially youth—to adopt yoga as a daily habit. It raised awareness about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and reduced stress through guided sessions. The active participation and interest shown by the community proved that the event inspired many to prioritize their physical and mental health, directly supporting the goals of SDG 3 in a meaningful and practical way.

What are your plans or ideas for continuing to work on this issue in the future?

In the future, I plan to organize regular community yoga sessions and awareness campaigns focused on mental and physical well-being. I also aim to collaborate with local schools and colleges to introduce youth to yoga and holistic health practices. Additionally, I want to create digital content—like short videos and blogs—to reach a wider audience. My goal is to build a sustained movement that encourages healthy lifestyles and continues contributing to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.