Yoga – Srinagar Athletes Showcase Floating Yoga Ahead of International Day
Yoga – International Yoga Day celebrations in Kashmir received a unique boost as a group of young athletes gathered on the calm waters of Pokhribal Lake in Srinagar to perform a floating yoga session, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative in Jammu and Kashmir. The event, held ahead of June 21, combined physical exercise, meditation, and water-based recreation in a setting surrounded by nature.
Unique Yoga Session Held on Pokhribal Lake
The programme was organised on Thursday morning by renowned water sports athlete and coach Bilquees Mir, widely known for her contributions to kayaking and canoeing in the region. Around 20 participants, including 10 boys and 10 girls, took part in the hour-long session conducted on specially arranged floating platforms anchored across the lake.
Participants performed various yoga postures while balancing on the floating structures. Some also practised meditation while standing partially immersed in the water, creating an unusual blend of yoga, relaxation, and outdoor activity.
Athletes Adapt Yoga to Their Natural Training Environment
Speaking about the experience, Bilquees Mir said the event introduced a completely new dimension to yoga practice. While yoga is commonly performed indoors, in parks, or during large public gatherings, carrying out the activity on water presented a fresh challenge.
According to her, athletes involved in water sports are already comfortable in aquatic environments, making it easier for them to adapt traditional yoga techniques to floating platforms. The participants, all of whom regularly train in water-based disciplines, viewed the session as an extension of their existing fitness routines.
Mental Fitness Remains a Key Focus
Bilquees highlighted that yoga has long been incorporated into athletic training programmes because of its role in improving concentration and recovery. She explained that participants began their day early, completing an 11-kilometre run before assembling at the lake for yoga and meditation exercises.
She noted that while activities such as running, paddling, and gym workouts help build physical strength, yoga contributes significantly to mental well-being. Improved focus, reduced stress levels, and enhanced emotional balance can positively influence athletic performance during training and competitions.
Water Environment Adds a Calming Effect
A major objective of the initiative was to demonstrate how natural surroundings can enhance mindfulness practices. Bilquees said that performing yoga on water can create an additional sense of calm, helping athletes disconnect from daily pressures and maintain emotional stability.
She pointed out that competitive sports often place significant demands on athletes, who must manage intense schedules, expectations, and performance-related stress. Floating yoga, she believes, can serve as an effective relaxation technique that supports mental health while encouraging participants to connect with nature.
Positive Engagement for Young People
The veteran sports coach also underlined the importance of providing constructive activities for youth. She said programmes that encourage physical activity and mental wellness can play a meaningful role in keeping young people engaged in healthy pursuits.
According to her, practices such as yoga and meditation help develop discipline and inner balance, offering positive alternatives that can steer youngsters toward productive lifestyles and away from harmful influences.
Plans for International Yoga Day Celebrations
Bilquees confirmed that similar floating yoga activities are expected to be organised on International Yoga Day. However, she cautioned that the practice requires proper preparation and should not be attempted without adequate swimming skills and training.
She also revealed that the initiative was conducted independently without support from any government agency or sports organisation. Expressing optimism about its future, she said official backing could help expand the concept, attract more participants, and promote floating yoga as a specialised wellness activity in the region.