World Yoga Day in Northern Cyprus: events in Kyrenia and Çatalköy drew many participants

On Sunday, June 21, 2026, World Yoga Day was celebrated on a large scale in Northern Cyprus. Special themed programs dedicated to this date were held at popular coastal venues in the Kyrenia and Çatalköy regions, attracting a large number of local residents and health-conscious people of all ages.

Yoga at sunset in the Old Harbour of Kyrenia

The central event, organized by the Kyrenia municipality, unfolded in the historic atmosphere of the ancient harbour against the backdrop of the medieval castle. Participants practiced physical and mental exercises outdoors right at sunset.

The workshops were adapted to different levels of experience. The practice and mindfulness sessions were led by experienced local specialists: Naile Soyel, Ebru Münir, Malhun Gazi Ağdağ, Salih Özbırım, Seren Özseden and Sıla Tüfekçioğlu. A special guest of the program was invited instructor Güran Ataker. The event concluded with an unexpected cultural integration: after the meditations, participants, under Ataker's guidance, performed “Sustu” — a traditional Cypriot folk dance, adding energy and a festive atmosphere to the evening.

Practices in Çatalköy at the Hz. Ömer recreation area

At the same time, the Çatalköy-Esentepe municipality organized its own location for celebrating Yoga Day in the coastal Hz. Ömer (Hz. Ömer) recreation area. Here, the emphasis was on maximum closeness to nature, relaxation of the mind and physical release. A group workout and breathing exercises in the open air for the gathered residents were led by well-known certified instructor Eda Alısınanoğlu. Local residents highly praised the organization and called for such wellness practices to be held regularly on the coast.