Tom Gordon MP celebrates International Yoga Day with local community session in Harrogate’s Valley Gardens
Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has submitted a motion to Parliament recognising International Yoga Day and praising a local initiative offering free, inclusive access to the ancient practice of yoga.
The motion highlights the importance of International Yoga Day, observed annually on 21 June, and applauds Guneet Khurana, a Harrogate yoga teacher who invited local residents to a free community yoga session in the Valley Gardens on Sunday 22 June.
Open to all abilities – including complete beginners – the session included gentle movement, breathwork, meditation, and chanting, designed to promote a sense of calm and connection. The event was a great success, enjoyed by all who attended.
Commenting on the initiative, Tom Gordon MP said:
“Yoga is about more than just movement – it’s a powerful tool for improving mental health, managing stress, and building a more mindful, resilient community. I’m proud to support International Yoga Day and commend Guneet for creating a welcoming, accessible space for people to come together and focus on their wellbeing.”
ENDS
The text of the EDM is as follows:
That this House recognises International Yoga Day on 21 June, a global celebration established by the United Nations in 2014 to raise awareness of the many benefits of practising yoga; acknowledges that yoga offers inclusive and accessible ways to improve both physical and mental wellbeing through movement, breathwork, and mindfulness; commends the work of community leaders and teachers across the UK who offer welcoming, non-judgemental spaces for people of all ages and abilities to connect and unwind; and in particular, applauds Harrogate-based yoga teacher Guneet Khurana, who is marking International Yoga Day by offering a free and inclusive yoga session in Valley Gardens on Sunday 22 June, promoting wellbeing, connection, and calm in our local community.
