International Yoga Day 2026: Heal-Station Brings Yoga To Mumbai's Local Trains

When

you think of yoga, what comes to mind? Asanas ranging from standing poses to seated stretches and balance postures—all practiced in a calm and quiet environment with a relaxed body and mind. Now imagine doing the same in the bustling surroundings of a Mumbai local train. Unusual as it may sound, that is exactly where Heal-Station comes in, transforming everyday travel time into an opportunity for yoga and wellness.

Yoga Beyond the Mat

For most Mumbaikars, the local train is more than just a mode of transport—it is the lifeline of the city. The Mumbai suburban railway carries roughly 75 to 80 lakh commuters every day. People who often travel long distances call it their second home, with many forming strong bonds, playing cards, performing Garba, celebrating Haldi-Kumkum, and even singing Ganesh aarti inside the train. It was while observing these everyday scenes during her commute from Borivali that Ruchita Shah, founder of Heal-Station, came up with an unusual idea. If commuters could use their travel time for social and cultural activities, why not for yoga? With Mumbaikars spending nearly two hours a day on local trains, she saw an opportunity to turn travel time into wellness time—giving birth to the concept of "Travel Time, Yoga Time." "As Mumbaikars, we are always on our toes and hardly get any time for ourselves. Why not use this travel time for yoga instead?" Shah told Times Now.

Bringing Yoga to Where People Are

For Heal-Station, bringing yoga into public spaces such as trains is about meeting people where they are. Shah noted that "local trains are the lifeline of India's financial capital, and the people who travel in them often carry immense daily pressure. Practicing yoga during the commute offers a practical way to reduce stress, regain physical strength, and return home feeling more positive and energized." What started as a fun activity in 2017, with just one person teaching 15-20 people, has spiralled into a full-blown foundation that is helping scores of Mumbaikars practice yoga while travelling.

Small Practices, Big Impact

"There are a few yoga asanas that focus on breathing, like sitting parvatasana and sukshma vyayama, which help loosen joints and remove energy blockages, along with stretching exercises such as shoulder rotations that help relax both the body and mind. These can be practised even in a crowded train, whether standing or sitting," Shah said. The impact, according to Program Coordinator Alka Thakkar, can be significant even in a short span of time. She explains that just a few minutes of mindful breathing or simple stretches amid a chaotic commute can help reset the nervous system, interrupt chronic stress patterns, and provide mental clarity. The response from commuters has been overwhelmingly positive.

As per Shah, the reactions typically follow a familiar sequence: shock, surprise, satisfaction, and smiles. "While many passengers are initially startled by the sight of yoga being practiced inside a train, they often become enthusiastic participants," she added. Commuters often report feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, happy, and blessed after just 15 minutes of practice. Sheetal Chauhan, Campaign Coordinator at Heal-Station, said that the growing global interest in yoga is encouraging because more people are experiencing its benefits. However, she believes it is equally important to preserve yoga's authenticity and ensure that the traditional knowledge of the practice is passed on in its true form.

Yoga Building Bond, Strengthening Communities

Beyond individual benefits, Heal-Station believes yoga can also address broader social challenges. Senior Yoga Teacher Shanti Gala said that practicing together in public spaces helps break down emotional barriers between strangers. "Shared participation creates opportunities for human connection and builds bonds among people who might otherwise remain isolated from one another," Gala added. The team also sees yoga as a tool for strengthening communities. They believe that when individuals become more self-aware and less reactive through regular practice, entire communities become more empathetic, resilient, and peaceful.

Yoga and Healthy Ageing

June 21 marks the 12th International Day of Yoga. This year's theme is "Healthy Ageing." At a time when the geriatric population is increasing, yoga can play an especially important role for older adults, Shah said. Gentle movements help maintain mobility and physical agility, while community-based sessions provide meaningful social interaction and help combat loneliness and isolation.

'Do yoga where you are'

For the volunteers involved, the initiative has been equally transformative. Senior Yoga Teacher Volunteer Kiran Gilder says yoga has taught her resilience, balance, and mindfulness, helping her approach life's challenges with a positive mindset. Their message remains simple: "Just do yoga—irrespective of where you are." Whether in a train, at work, or at home, even a few mindful minutes dedicated to conscious breathing and proper posture can have a lasting impact.