Israel’s International Day of Yoga, which took place this year on Thursday, was held in a number of locations across the country to raise awareness for the return of Israeli hostage Carmel Gat, who has been held captive by Hamas since the group’s Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel.
Former hostages held captive by Hamas said Gatto provided them with guided yoga practices and meditation.
Yoga in memory of Carmel at Tel Aviv port, calling for her release
One of the yoga events aimed at raising awareness of ghat was held at sunset in the Tel Aviv port. The event, held for the 15th consecutive year in collaboration with “EllaYoga,” included traditional sun salutations and meditation accompanied by the sounds of Tibetan bowls.
Gat’s family has been actively campaigning for her release and has organized several events, including yoga and meditation gatherings. In January, the Israel Museum hosted a public yoga session which Gat’s family attended.
An additional yoga session was held in New York City in January, where family members attended the event and spoke about caring for others through Gatto’s work as an occupational therapist.
Hannah Brown and Hannah Sallison contributed to this report.
