International Yoga Day 2024
In a fast-paced world and busy lifestyle, it is important to take care of your health and add physical exercise and yoga to your daily routine. However, most people adopt modern techniques to keep in shape which is not bad but they are mainly focusing on losing weight rather than having a healthy life. Modern techniques and equipment can build your shape but for inner relaxation and calmness, Yoga is the best method. It is a traditional way to not only stay fit and healthy but also to improve concentration, mental clarity, inner peace, and balance of the body and mind.
This is why most countries are including Yoga in their daily routine. With this comprehensive approach, In 2014, 175 United Nations members established the International Day of Yoga which falls on every year on 21 June. Over a decade, International Yoga Day has spread awareness of the benefits of Yoga which helps to enhance the physical and mental well-being of an individual. The Sanskrit word “yoga” drives the meaning “to join or to unite” which represents the fusion of the human body and the mind. Originating in India, Yoga has attracted people from across the globe to come to India to learn Yoga.
International Yoga Day 2024 And Its Theme
As mentioned above, International Yoga Day 2024 falls every year on 21 June with a unique theme. This year’s specific theme is “Yoga for Self and Society”. This theme aims to focus on the celebrations and activities around a particular aspect of yoga. Apart from that, this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the commemorations at Srinagar’s Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre.
History Of International Yoga Day 2024
The root of the origin of Yoga was found in the pre-Vedic period in which the great Sage Maharshi Patanjali systematized and codified the then-existing practices of Yoga. Yoga originated thousands of years ago but has been adopted in other countries in different ways. The day dedicated to Yoga was initiated by PM Modi in 2014 with a vision to spread awareness of the benefits and needs of Yoga. PM Modi initiated this move at the UN General Assembly.
While addressing the assembly he said, “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition, Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action- a holistic approach that is valuable to our health and well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover a sense of oneness with yourself, the world, and nature.” With this approach and thought, the first International Day of Yoga was commemorated on 21 June 2015 by UNGA. The vision of initiating the day is to inspire people to add the practice of Yoga to their daily routine.
Also Read: Celebrating Earth Day 2024: A Call To Protect Our Planet
Significance Of International Yoga Day 2024
Yoga has now become a part of daily routine and it is widely famous across the globe. Millions of people are practising Yoga to improve their overall health and mental well-being. Yoga not only helps to reduce depression, stress and anxiety but also improves balance, strength, endurance and flexibility.
What is the reason for proclaiming 21 June as International Yoga Day?
The reason for proclaiming 21 June as International Yoga Day is due to the longest day. As we all know, 21 June is also known as the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and it holds a special significance in several parts of the world.
This year, International Yoga Day 2024 will be celebrated at the UN Headquarters in New York.
