The movers, shakers and devotees of Geraldton yoga scene and Mid West Indian community once again joined forces to celebrate International Day of Yoga.

The day has been marked around the globe since 2015 on Sunday, June 21 — the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere and the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere.

For the ninth year in a row, the Geraldton Yoga Club hosted an event in Geraldton to celebrate the occasion.

GYC president Julie Myers said it was another wonderful celebration working in conjunction with the Mid West Indian Cultural Society and Consulate General of India in Perth, with support from the City of Greater Geraldton.

“This year’s theme was healthy aging, diversity, community, and connection — which is what we do every week in our community classes. Everyone is welcome and one of the best things is seeing people of all backgrounds connecting through yoga,” she said.

More than 100 participants gathered at the QEII Centre for the event, which started with an opening ceremony that included a traditional lighting of the lamp.

“The atmosphere was amazing — it was wonderful to see people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities rolling out their mats and joining this celebration of multiculturalism and community spirit,” deputy mayor Natasha Colliver said.

Local yoga teachers then delivered a two-hour session, which began with an outline of the eight limbs of yoga and how yoga extends far beyond the mat and into daily lives as a complete, living practice.

“What a privilege to teach to so many amazing yogis, and teaching alongside these passionate, awesome teachers is such a treat,” yoga teacher Suzanne Ottersen said.

Yoga enthusiast Shirley McKinnon said, “the whole experience leaves you calm and centred, and meditation with the sounds of the crystal bowls was deeply relaxing.”

The Mid West Indian Cultural Society again prepared Annadhanam, which is the traditional sharing of food, which was prepared by a skilled Indian chef and served by volunteers.

“Sharing food is a beautiful way to bring people together. In the yogic tradition, food is considered sacred, nourishing the body, mind and spirit while fostering gratitude and community,” MICS president Dr Jignesh Vania said.

For more information, visit geraldtonyogaclub.com.au