The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued fresh
guidelines for opening up of more activities in areas outside Containment Zones,
including the opening up of Yoga institutes from August 5.

“Yoga institutes and gymnasiums will be allowed to open from
August 5, 2020. In this regard, Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be
issued by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) for ensuring
social distancing and to contain the spread of COVID-19…The night curfew has
also been removed,” an order issued by the MHA said.

This comes even as schools, colleges and coaching institutions
besides Metro Rail, cinema halls, swimming pools, bars and entertainment parks will
remain closed till August 31. Also, the full lockdown measures shall continue
to be implemented strictly in the Containment Zones for another month.

There is a new wave of interest in Yoga by people of all age
groups during the pandemic times, given its benefits in improving the immune
system and the overall health. However, the lockdown measures forced many
organisations to go online and provide classes on Yogic Asanas (physical exercises),
pranayam (breathing exercises) and meditation.

“I began to practice pranayams on a daily basis since
the lockdown was implemented, as a substitute for morning walks. The benefits
are there for the taking. We welcome the decision to allow Yoga institutes,” said
Vinod Kumar S, a Kochi-based journalist.

According to experts, the Yoga Asanas help in
improving the blood circulation and Pranayam in purifying blood due to increased
intake of oxygen, which is very crucial for improving immunity. Meditation also
helps people stay positive and ward off loneliness and depression during the
pandemic threat.