Prime Minister Modi during the 2022 International Yoga Day event held at Mysuru Palace in Karnataka, India. / narendramodi.in

“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” – The Bhagavad Gita.

In our fast-paced world, finding time to take care of our health can often feel impossible. Our busy schedules and unhealthy routines can leave us stressed and out of balance. That’s where yoga comes in — a holistic exercise that keeps our bodies flexible, our minds calm, and our spirits energized. Yoga provides a sanctuary of peace amidst the chaos, offering a path to inner harmony and well-being.

What is Yoga?

Yoga is an ancient practice that started in India over 5,000 years ago. It was developed to connect the mind, body, and soul, helping individuals reach a state of enlightenment. Over time, yoga has become popular worldwide, embraced not just as a physical exercise but as a comprehensive way to improve overall health and manage stress. It’s a practice that goes beyond the physical, touching every aspect of our lives and promoting peace and balance.

International Yoga Day

International Yoga Day is celebrated every year on June.21. This special day highlights the importance of yoga and encourages people worldwide to practice it. It’s a global event that brings together yoga enthusiasts from all walks of life, celebrating the positive impact yoga can have on our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Yoga Day serves as a reminder of the ancient practice’s enduring relevance and its ability to transform lives.

History of International Yoga Day

The history of yoga is rich and fascinating, dating back thousands of years. In India, yoga was created as a spiritual discipline to help individuals connect with their inner selves and achieve enlightenment. As yoga spread to the West, it became widely recognized for its physical and mental health benefits.

Today, it’s practiced by millions worldwide who appreciate its ability to enhance well-being and alleviate stress.

The idea of International Yoga Day was proposed by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 during a speech at the UN General Assembly. He suggested June.21 for the celebration because it’s the longest day of the year, known as the Summer Solstice. This date was chosen to symbolize the light and energy that yoga brings into our lives. The proposal was supported by 177 countries, and the first International Yoga Day was celebrated on June.21, 2015, with thousands of people, including Prime Minister Modi, performing yoga in New Delhi.

Why is International Yoga Day important?

International Yoga Day is important because it brings people from diverse cultures and backgrounds together to celebrate and practice yoga. It highlights yoga's benefits for mental and physical health and promotes a sense of harmony and peace. This day serves as a platform to raise awareness about yoga’s transformative effects and encourage more people to incorporate it into their daily lives.

On this day, many events and activities are organized worldwide. Yoga sessions, workshops, and demonstrations occur in parks, schools, and yoga studios. These events encourage everyone, regardless of age or ability, to try yoga and experience its positive effects. International Yoga Day fosters a sense of community and collective well-being, reminding us that yoga is a valuable tool for personal and societal health.

The theme of International Yoga Day 2024

Each year, International Yoga Day has a different theme, focusing on various aspects of yoga and its relevance to contemporary challenges. The theme for 2024 is “Yoga for Women Empowerment.” This theme aims to raise awareness about the benefits of yoga for women and encourage individuals to incorporate yoga into their daily lives for improved well-being. It emphasizes the role of yoga in promoting physical, mental, and emotional health, empowering women to lead balanced and fulfilling lives.

How to celebrate International Yoga Day

Here are some fun and simple ways to celebrate International Yoga Day:

• Join a Virtual Event: Many online events offer yoga classes and workshops, making it easy to participate from the comfort of your home.
• Go on a Yoga Retreat: Spend a day or weekend focusing on yoga and relaxation. A retreat can provide a refreshing break from daily routines and deepen your practice.
• Practice with Family and Friends: Gather your loved ones and practice yoga together. It’s a wonderful way to bond and share the benefits of yoga.
• Learn a New Pose: Challenge yourself to learn a new yoga pose. Trying something new can be exciting and invigorating.
• Create a Yoga Space at Home: Set up a special place at home for your yoga practice. Having a dedicated space can make your practice more enjoyable and consistent.

Basic rules for practicing yoga

1. Empty Stomach: Practice yoga on an empty stomach. Wait at least 3 hours after eating before you start to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
2. Start Slowly: If you’re new to yoga, begin with simple poses and gradually move to more challenging ones. It’s important to build a strong foundation before attempting advanced asanas.
3. Relax Before You Start: Take 10 minutes to relax your mind and body before beginning your yoga session. This helps you focus and get the most out of your practice.
4. Wear Comfortable Clothes: Choose comfortable, light-colored clothes that aren’t too tight or loose. The right attire can enhance your movement and comfort.
5. Use a Yoga Mat: Practice on a mat or thick sheet, not directly on the ground. A mat provides support and cushioning for your joints.
6. Morning Practice: Doing yoga in the morning can help you feel energized and refreshed all day. It’s a great way to start your day on a positive note.
7. Stay Regular: Try to practice yoga daily, even just for a few minutes. Consistency is key to reaping the full benefits of yoga.

Family yoga practice

Yoga with your family can strengthen your bonds and create a peaceful and fun routine. Here’s why you should try family yoga:

1. Increases Mutual Understanding: Spending time together through yoga fosters love and respect. It’s a beautiful way to connect with your loved ones.
2. Strengthens Bonds: Doing yoga with your kids helps you understand their challenges and life changes. It’s a special way to support each other.
3. Encourages Open Communication: Yoga brings peace of mind, making it easier to discuss problems. It creates a safe space for open and honest conversations.
4. Starts the Day Fresh: Begin the day with yoga to relieve mental fatigue and feel energized. It sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.
5. Inculcates Healthy Habits: Practicing yoga together promotes good habits like punctuality and empathy. It teaches valuable life skills and strengthens family ties.

Yoga is a wonderful practice that improves flexibility, reduces stress, boosts immunity, and much more. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, let’s roll out our mats this International Yoga Day and embrace the benefits of yoga! Let’s make this day a celebration of health, peace, and unity.