International yoga day

International Yoga Day

International Yoga Day is celebrated every year on 21st June. This idea was proposed by Prime Minister of India, Mr Narendra Modi with the objective of promoting the holistic benefits of yoga among the people worldwide. Hence the United Nations declared International Yoga Day in 2015. Around 35,985 people, including Narendra Modi and notable dignitaries from 84 nations celebrated the event by performing 21 different yoga asanas in New Delhi. Many people and spiritual gurus took the initiative to promote the development of yoga.

The program gained recognition in the Guinness World Records for the largest yoga class and a more significant number of people’s involvement. Moreover, it received popularity across the world and was acknowledged globally. The word yoga originated from the Sanskrit word, ‘Yuj’ meaning to join or to unite. As per the yogic scriptures, yoga is a spiritual and aesthetic discipline which includes breath control, meditation and adopting certain bodily postures.

The ultimate goal of the exercise is to attain salvation(moksha). Moreover, its roots are present since the Vedic period and have been mentioned in the Rig Veda. The asana are not only physical exercise but hold significance in terms of spiritual connection. As stated by Amit Ray, “Yoga means addition-addition of energy, strength and beauty to body, mind and soul.” The first Hindu person to propagate and disseminate aspects of yoga to the western audience was Swami Vivekanand.

The International Yoga Day was adopted to fulfil the below-mentioned objectives:

• To promote better mental and physical health benefits among the masses.

• To draw the attention of people towards holistic advantages of yoga.

• To promote awareness about the natural and amazing results among the people.

• To help people connect with nature by practising yoga on a daily basis.

• To reduce the rate of fatal diseases all over the world.

• To unify communities through spending time for health from a busy schedule.

• To enhance growth and development and bring peace.

• To encourage people to eliminate negativity by embracing meditation and yoga asanas.

• To win over bad mental and physical health.

• To promote healthy living habits among the people.

Yoga is considered to be the most constructive and fruitful way of connecting our soul to God. It brings a balance and an alignment between our body and mind. Through meditation and breathing exercise, one can connect with nature and find bliss in the world. It opens our mind to appreciate the good in life and form peace. Moreover, a person develops a bond with the Supreme and the spiritual world.

 

It increases our thinking capacity and helps us to make better decisions. Also, one experiences immense serenity which further helps in fighting struggles in life. Furthermore, the essence of yoga revolves around elevating the life force known as Kundalini, which lies at the base of the spine. It is believed that yoga is an invaluable gift in India’s tradition passed down by our ancestors towards healthy living.

Regular practice improves flexibility among the muscles, which strains the knee due to improper alignment and creates good posture. It prevents the body from arthritis and severe back pain by strengthening the muscles. The spine is well protected by practising several backbends, front bends and twists. It is known as the natural immunity booster and increases the blood flow.

The most prominent feature it displays is focusing on the present. According to studies, yoga improves coordination, memory and IQ. People do not deviate from their course and concentrate on their goals. Also, it relaxes the entire system and makes us happier. The day commenced by practising yoga proves to be fruitful and cheerful. Lastly, it maintains our nervous system and helps us to fight stress. It adds years to your life and life to your years.