The world unites today to celebrate a practice as ancient as civilization itself – Yoga. This year’s International Day of Yoga crosses the 10-year mark with the theme focused on “Yoga for Self and Society.”
Derived from the Sanskrit word, Yoga, which means to join or to unite, is a transformative practice that represents the harmony of mind and body, the balance between thought and action, and the unity of restraint and fulfillment. The initiative was started by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, and endorsed by the UN in 2014, emphasizing yoga’s universal appeal and its role in promoting a balanced and fulfilling life.
An event organized by the Permanent Mission of India to the UN in collaboration with the UN Secretariat will take place today, in the North Lawn Area of UNHQ, globally involving participation and recognition of yoga’s values. Yoga Day aims to raise awareness of the many benefits of yoga practice globally, with a focus on calming busy lifestyles and its holistic approach to health and well-being.
In a fast-paced world, yoga is an essential practice today, due to its comprehensive benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual health. It promotes practices for maintaining a balanced mindset in everyday life and enhances proficiency in carrying out one’s tasks. It offers a route to personal transformation and equips individuals to handle life’s challenges with grace and balance.
Last year, it was focused on the theme “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” emphasizing the timeless Indian idea of global unity, inclusivity, and interconnectedness. Events worldwide focused on promoting global solidarity and mutual respect, encouraging acts of kindness, compassion, and service to others. The theme also underscored yoga’s potential to foster a more peaceful and harmonious world, reinforcing the idea that yoga’s teachings extend beyond the mat to influence global harmony.
Today, yoga is regarded as a journey to discover oneness with everything. It encourages healthier lifestyle choices, reducing physical inactivity, a key risk factor for diseases like cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and diabetes.
