International Yoga Day: Yoga is an alternative for therapy, says Moradabad's philanthropist Arvind Goel

As the world prepares to celebrate the 8th International Day of Yoga on June 21, a Moradabad-based philanthropist and educator, Arvind Kumar Goel, works silently to tap the Yoga's vast potential to change lives for the betterment.

Yoga is all about moving towards an experiential reality where one gets to know about one's ultimate reason for existence. And, it's certainly not just about asanas, meditation and difficult physical postures or a method to stay healthy as often projected, but encompasses ancient wisdom of the sages to unlock spiritual awakening and holistic healing, thus positively impacting our earthly lives.

Though Yoga is broadly classified into four groups - Karma, Bhakti, Jnana, and Raja, Arvind Goel's focus has always been on Karma (action-oriented) Yoga which encourages to move on the path of service through selfless action for the good of others.

Goel's belief in Karma yoga manifests from his actions in the field of philanthropy in the last three decades. He has erected hundreds of old age homes, shelters for the poor, helps run a large number of educational institutions and pulled thousands out of poverty providing them the means to dignified lives.

But he also knows, the problem is humongous and he alone cannot fulfil the dream to eradicate suffering from this planet. And thus, Goel deploys the tenets of Karma Yoga to bring about change. He connects spirituality with service and encourages others to develop a selfless mindset.

Now be it the celebrities who consider Goel their ideal or industrialists who wait eagerly to get a chance to meet him or simply those lakhs of students whom he provides education to, Goel's message is clear - follow Karma Yoga with a selfless heart to bring about change in the lives of the poor and needy. And do not expect anything in return. It is the attitude towards the action which is more important than the action itself.

Karma Yoga works both ways. On one hand it betters the lives of the poor and on the other hand, it connects the benefactor with the divine as it brings inner peace.

This obviously changes one's attitude towards life. And, a relaxed and happy mind is better able to cope with sensitive issues. Yoga keeps the mind peaceful and content, and so helps strengthen the bonds you share with people. Karma Yoga lrnds a purpose to an otherwise rudderless life. Goel's motto on this International Day of Yoga is to make the world a better place to live in.