The art of practicing yoga helps in controlling an individual's mind, body and soul, besides bringing together physical and mental discipline to achieve a peaceful body and mind, Himachal Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said on Tuesday. Talking to reporters after participating in Yoga on the occasion of International Yoga Day-2022 organized by the Ayush Department at the Ridge, he said that Yoga helps manage stress and anxiety and keeps us relaxed. It also helps in increasing flexibility and muscle strength besides improving respiration and energy, he added. Urban Development Minister Suresh Bhardwaj, Vice Chairman Handicraft and Handloom Corporation Sanjeev Katwal, Mayor Shimla Municipal Corporation Satya Kaundal, Chairman cum Managing Director SJVNL Nand Lal Sharma, Secretary Ayush Rajeev Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Shimla Aditya Negi, Director Information and Public Relations Harbans Singh Brascon, Superintendent of Police Monica and other senior officers were also present on the occasion.