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.