One of the most satisfying aspects of public life for me is the opportunity it gives to help improve the health and well-being of the people I represent, you.
My monthly health forums focus on a wide range of topics on good physical and mental health and have had a positive impact. They help people identify areas that need improvement and give them avenues to make positive changes in their day-to-day lives.
Regular readers also know my newspaper column frequently tackles health and wellness issues for young and old and everyone in between—even the family pet.
It was extremely gratifying when 300 people showed up on March 28 for an event I spearheaded—the first Knox Mountain Walk for Health and World Peace. The walk was designed not only to promote physical activity, but also to celebrate our community’s diversity and ability to live in harmony, despite our differences.
In the spirit of helping improve the health and well-being of the people I represent, I’ve decided to organize a gathering on June 21—Father’s Day—on the lawn across from the Kelowna Family Y on Hartman Road to celebrate the International Day of Yoga.
Okanagan residents can be part of a global event as cities around the world celebrate the first International Day of Yoga, which was declared by the United Nations General Assembly at the urging of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The principles of yoga align with my philosophy of achieving life satisfaction through a healthy mind, body and spirit.
Yoga has been described as an art and science for healthy living—something for which the Okanagan Valley is renowned.
I want to emphasize that you don’t have to be an active yoga practitioner to take part on International Day of Yoga. It is for all ages, from beginners and those who have never tried yoga, to experts.
I fall into the category of those who have never tried yoga, but I am looking forward to this event along with my colleague Steve Thomson, MLA for Kelowna-Mission, as we follow the direction of Melanie Morrissette of Abs-tract Fitness.
There is an added incentive for participants, too. Everyone who takes part is eligible for a Gateway Casino prize package consisting of a two-night stay at the Penticton Lake City Casino, two tickets to the Elvis Festival, and a two-night stay at the Grand Villa Casino in Burnaby, plus dinner.
What better way to celebrate Father’s Day and the first day of summer than by joining your friends and neighbours for one hour of yoga and fellowship, from 10 to 11 a.m.
It’s a simple step toward achieving better health for body and mind, and maybe win a great Father’s Day gift for someone special in your life…or just for you.
See you there.
