The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has written to the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), on the health benefits of Yoga, particularly in boosting immunity and helping recovery from COVID-19.

Mr Femi Adesina, the President’s spokesman in a statement on Saturday in Abuja, said the prime minister wrote the Nigerian leader as the world celebrates United Nations (UN) International Day of Yoga.

The Prime Minister’s letter, dated May 14, read in part:

“In 2014, the overwhelming response of the United Nations General Assembly to recognize June 21 as International Day of Yoga underlined the universal appeal of Yoga that transcends all barriers.

“Since then, the International Day of Yoga has been marked globally with great fervour.

“In a few weeks, the world will mark the seventh International Day of Yoga.

”Like the year gone by, this year’s International Day of Yoga will also be marked under the shadow of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

“In the midst of this monumental challenge, our COVID-19 warriors have waged a remarkable fight against the pandemic.

”While the threat of the pandemic remains, there have been positive developments since the last International Day of Yoga.

”In addition to various treatment protocols, scientific understanding about the virus, we now also have several vaccines to protect our people from the pandemic.

”Vaccination drives are underway in several nations, including India. I remain optimistic that humanity shall overcome the pandemic very soon.

“The theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga is “Yoga for Wellness’’, which is particularly relevant in the current context.

“Yoga has many benefits for the body as well as for the mind. Despite all the efforts and precautions, COVID-19 may infect any person. However, a strong immune system can aid in the fight against it.

”Yoga can help build that immunity, for instance, through breathing exercises that strengthen the lungs.

”At the same time, across the world, millions of people have been forced to stay indoors for months.

”This has taken a toll on their mental health as well. Regular practice of Yoga can also help them recover.”

According to the prime minister, Yoga has an inherent power to connect, saying Yoga is good for community, immunity and unity.

He observed that the theme of International Day of Yoga celebrations this year reflected the concern for the good health and wellbeing of people across the globe.

”It is an endeavour to ensure that we focus on fitness as well as wellness.

“I wish to extend through your good offices, my deepest gratitude for the cooperation and efforts extended by one and all in making the International Day of Yoga celebrations a resounding success in your nation every year.

”I am sure that this year will be no different.

“Please accept my best wishes to you, your family and your citizens, for good health and well-being,’’ he added.