CJI Surya Kant emphasises importance of yoga at workplace

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said on Sunday that yoga offers a timeless framework for finding stillness in an otherwise chaotic world as he performed Yoga at the Supreme Court premises to celebrate International Yoga Day.

Observing the 12th International Yoga Day, CJI Kant said the annual event has rightly found a permanent place on the calendar, but beyond its official designation, what is truly being celebrated is an intrinsic piece of Indian heritage.

"For centuries, our civilisational wisdom has emphasised that true wellness is never just about physical fitness. It is about a harmonious alignment between the mind, the body, and the spirit. Yoga is the practical vehicle for that philosophy, offering a timeless framework to find stillness in an otherwise chaotic world," he said.


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The CJI told the audience, comprising court staff, judges and lawyers who also performed yoga, that the demands of daily life within the administration of justice are relentless.

"We deal with high volumes of work, tight deadlines, and the constant pressure that comes with supporting the administration of justice. This environment inevitably takes a toll on our mental clarity and physical vitality. In such a scenario, it is easy to neglect our health when professional responsibilities take over," he said, while emphasising the importance of yoga at the workplace.

CJI Kant said it is a common misconception that yoga requires perfect flexibility or hours of free time.

"I am myself still a learner when it comes to yoga, yet I can say with certainty that even a few minutes of conscious breathing or basic stretching can dramatically alter how you handle stress. It stabilises the mind, improves focus, and builds the physical resilience we need to sustain our demanding schedules. Nurturing our well-being is not a luxury; it is a necessary investment in ourselves and in the institution we serve," he said.

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The CJI said the occasion was a wonderful opportunity to come together and practice, but the real goal is to look beyond this single morning.

"International Yoga Day is an excellent opportunity to spark a transition, a moment to step onto the mat and commit to making this a regular habit. True benefits do not come from a once-a-year exercise; they come from consistency. Let this day be the starting point for a healthier routine, whether that means ten minutes of morning meditation or a short stretching routine evening after work," he said.

CJI Kant thanked the registry team for organising the event efficiently and encouraged the court staff to take the experiences from the day's session back to their desks and into their homes.

"Let us make health and mindfulness a priority, not just today, but every day," he said.