Let us involve youngsters in Yogic way of life
| Date :07-Jul-2019 |
Vijay Phanshikar:
TRYING to connect with young people during the recent International Yoga Day celebrations proved to be a revealing experience. Though most of them had heard about Yog as a way of life, none had tried to practise it. “That is so because nobody encouraged us to do that”, most said in the most innocent manner. But when told about how simple it is to practise Yog and how beneficial it would prove, most youngsters also agreed unhesitantly that they would certainly give Yog a serious try. In fact, the reality of how our society has ignored a lot of good traditional things also applies to Yog. Even though there often has been a good deal of talking about Yog, the society in general has never adopted it as an easy-to-follow, absolutely free practise of complete wellness.
As he understood the simple practices and rich benefits of Yog, a college student said that he would stop going to gym every evening and start practising at home every morning before going to college. A couple of his friends, too, agreed to do the same. Finally, they agreed to come together in a small group to practise Yog. A couple of days later, one of them phoned to inform that the group has begun gathering at a place every morning for Yog sessions. “We have found an uncle to guide us. Some other friends, too, will join us soon. And uncle, I must say that I have begun enjoying the feel of getting up early in the morning for such a fine activity”, the fellow said with his voice dripping with enthusiasm. In fact, such an enthusiasm has an infectious quality.
Once you start doing the right thing with enthusiasm and dedication, others, too, feel impressed and want to follow suit. A couple of days ago, a bunch of youngsters caught up in the park and said, “Uncle, we also have formed a group and will meet every morning for our Yog sessions. One of us has attended a class at the (Shri Janardan Swami) Yogabhyasi Mandal and will guide us”. But will they continue? -- is the obvious question. Members of both the groups insisted that they would without break. Only time will tell if they really would keep the promise, but that they have begun is good enough an encouraging detail. Countless examples are available around us of people who practise Yog most sincerely for years and enjoy a great mental and physical health.
In many localities, Yog sessions are held regularly, in the process benefitting countless people of all age-groups. They do motivate others in a big way. Yet, this effort must be expanded to cover youngsters as a matter of social mission so that our youths become truly healthy. However, a middle-aged man often volunteering help in a Yog ‘class’ said something disturbing: “Sir, these young people are not interested in anything like this”. This may be true in some cases, but it also demonstrates an uncalled for bias against youngsters. There are examples of youths getting impressed by good ideas if those are presented to them with conviction. As far as Yog is concerned, it is necessary for the society to shed some uncalled biases and promote right things -- such as Yog. Let us give a serious push to this idea of involving youngsters in the practice of Yog.