International Yoga Day in Navi Mumbai: ‘Pran & Paryavaran’ Connects Yoga With Mangrove Conservation

Unique Initiative Combines Wellness and Environmental Action on Navi Mumbai Coast

On the occasion of International Day of Yoga, a meaningful initiative in Navi Mumbai brought together personal wellness and environmental responsibility under one platform. The Environment Life Foundation (ELF), in collaboration with Shivomay Yog & Wellness, organized a special programme titled “Pran & Paryavaran”, combining yoga practice with mangrove conservation activities.

The event also marked the foundation’s 305th consecutive weekly mangrove cleanup drive, creating awareness about the strong connection between healthy living and a healthy environment.

Yoga Amid Mangroves Inspires Volunteers Despite Rain

Held during the early morning hours along the Navi Mumbai coastline, the programme witnessed participation from nearly 40 volunteers, who gathered despite light rainfall.

The yoga session was conducted in the peaceful surroundings of the mangrove ecosystem and was led by Dipali Udiavar, founder of Shivomay Yog & Wellness, who is also known for her work as an integrative yoga practitioner and psychotherapist.

Participants practiced yoga while reflecting on the importance of protecting nature for overall physical and mental well-being.

‘Healthy Environment Means Healthy Life’

According to organizers, the theme “Pran & Paryavaran” symbolized the relationship between life, breath and environmental balance.

Speaking during the event, Dharmesh Barai, founder of Environment Life Foundation, highlighted the importance of environmental protection in everyday life.

He shared that clean air, safe water and healthy wetlands are essential for human health and not optional luxuries. He also encouraged citizens to reduce waste generation and actively contribute towards protecting natural ecosystems for future generations.

Volunteers Take Sustainability Pledge Before Cleanup Drive

Before beginning the cleanup activity, volunteers collectively took a pledge to adopt and promote the 3R principle — Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

The initiative encouraged participants to practice responsible waste management and include sustainable habits in their daily routines.

Organizers said small lifestyle changes can create a significant positive impact on the environment over time.

Nearly 300 Kg Waste Removed to Protect Mangrove Ecosystem

After completing the yoga session, volunteers, popularly known as “Mangrove Soldiers,” carried out the cleanup drive across the coastal stretch.

The team successfully removed approximately 300 kilograms of waste, including plastic materials, thermocol, discarded footwear and biomedical waste.

The cleanup effort aimed to protect mangroves by removing pollutants that block aerial roots and negatively affect coastal biodiversity.

Support From Authorities Strengthens Conservation Efforts

The Environment Life Foundation acknowledged the support received from the Mangrove Foundation and the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) for helping with coordination and logistical arrangements.

Organizers said such collaborations are important for creating long-term environmental awareness and encouraging active citizen participation.

A Message Beyond Yoga Day

The event concluded with a strong message that individual health and environmental conservation are deeply connected. Through the combination of yoga and community action, the initiative encouraged citizens to embrace sustainable practices and contribute towards building cleaner and healthier surroundings.

As the city observed International Yoga Day, the programme stood out as an example of how simple actions can support both personal wellness and ecological preservation.