Alli and Kyle in Nicaragua: International Yoga Day

One thing we have learned about Nicaragua was that they celebrate Every. Single. Holiday. This country is always celebrating something. While there are many national holidays such as Day of the Revolution (July 19th; celebrating the ousting of the Somoza dictatorship in 1979) and Central American Independence day (September 15th, 1821), there are also the more obscure international holidays that I never knew were actual “days” until I lived here. A few examples: International Forest Day, International day of the Birds, The day against Burning Forest, International Child Day, World day for More efficient electricity, World day without automobiles, Day of the Water, and International day for a world without tobacco. And, trust me, the list could go on and on. I have made many a bulletin boards for these holidays at the schools I work in :)

Now I am not saying all this celebrating and recognition is a bad thing! It is just so different from the holidays we celebrate in the states. I would have never guessed there was an international “hand washing” day (October 15th). If you enjoy clean hands, THIS IS YOUR DAY! :) In all honesty, not ALL these are celebrated as true “holidays” in Nicaragua (day off of work or school, a special presentation like you see during mother’s or father’s day or a parade for independence day). BUT they are listed in the official Ministry of Education calendar and government calendars. It’s fun to read through these calendars and see what interesting days are coming up in the month, and which ones we will add to that month’s mural.

Surprisingly, one day that was not celebrated was International Yoga Day! I have been teaching a few basic yoga moves with my elementary gym class in Quebrada de Agua. I am no Yogi. But we focus on balance, controlling our bodies (and voices) and on a good day, quiet moments :) So on International Yoga Day we focused on some yoga moves and we talked about what other students may be doing around the world to celebrate the day. Here are some pictures of my students doing their best tree pose. We had a blast practicing and will continue to practice while advancing in our poses!