LAHORE: The Parks and Horticulture Authority has opened a state-of-the-art community yoga centre at Jilani Park (Racecourse), according to the PHA director general.

Yoga, believed to have originated thousands of years ago in India and gained popularity in the West only in the late 19th century, commonly understood as a physical stretching practice synchronised with breathing. The numerous benefits of yoga include lower blood pressure, increased strength and bone density, and reduced anxiety.”There are several styles of yoga, ranging from gentle, meditative experiences to more physically intense formats,” DG Tahir Wattoo said in a press release issued here on Sunday.

He noted that the centre at Jilani Park will allow enthusiasts to embrace this ancient form of fitness.

According to him, initially, the PHA intends to conduct two sessions, one each in the morning and the evening for participants with a nominal fee. Later, the number of sessions will be increased to accommodate more visitors.

Referring to the perils of noisy urban life, he said the new retreat was hidden in the centre of the provincial metropolis on Jail Road. He further said the PHA was focused on making wellness more accessible, intending for the centre to offer everything “under one roof.”

He said the PHA has undergone a development spree in recent months, designing the city’s first-ever government-owned Bonsai display centre featuring dwarfed trees, opening a commercial nursery at Jail Road, and upgrading a dedicated rose garden.

The PHA has also taken drastic measures to bolster revenues to support government fiscal spending. Consequently, its revenue, according to DG Mr Tahir Wattoo has more than doubled in one year.

Separately, in the past year, PHA conducted two tent pegging events to promote the traditional sport of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. “We are committed to expanding opportunities for sports and recreational activities for the residents of Lahore,” Mr Wattoo said.

Published in Dawn, January 22nd, 2024