Newbury enjoys sunshine at International Yoga Day event in Victoria Park

Residents made the most of the sunshine in Victoria Park at Newbury’s International Yoga Day event on Saturday (June 21).

More than 100 people rolled out their mats and enjoyed the warmer weather when they took part in the town’s fifth annual International Yoga Day group event, organised by Hindu group Bharati Shakha Newbury in association with Swasti Yoga and Newbury Town Council.

Among the distinguished guests taking part was former Newbury MP Laura Farris. She said after the event: “I loved my yoga class in Victoria Park.

“I am so grateful to the organisers for getting us all out in the open on International Day of Yoga.”

Bharati Shakha Newbury member Sanjeev Agarwala said: “The event featured group yoga sessions, breathing exercises and community interaction, embodying the core values of yoga: unity, balance, and holistic living.

“It reminds us that true wellness is only possible when we live in harmony with nature.”

The 2025 theme, ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’, highlights the deep connection between human wellbeing and the health of the planet.

At the close of the event, Newbury mayor David Harman spoke highly of the significance of International Yoga Day and lauded Bharati Shakha Newbury for its consistent efforts in promoting wellness and community service.

He also highlighted the organisation’s initiatives such as tree planting, litter picking and hosting charity coffee mornings.

In 2014, the United Nations proclaimed June 21 as International Yoga Day because of the practice’s universal appeal and physical, mental and spiritual benefits.