International Yoga Day

Yoga union of body, mind, and spiritual dimension for a holistic experience of human life.

Yoga is an ancient concept that started during the Indus-Sarasvati Civilization in Northern India over 5000 years ago. First mentioned in the Rig Veda, yoga is a Sanskrit term meaning ‘union’, of body and consciousness. The message behind yoga is the promotion of physical and mental wellbeing. To celebrate Yoga day as just one form, for just the physical workout is only doing half of the work for holistic wellbeing. Yoga Asanas are one of the parts of deep and unhinged knowledge. According to Saint Patanjali, the philosophy of Yoga has 8 Limbs, that are Yamas (external discipline), Niyamas (internal discipline), Asana (posture), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (withdrawal of senses), Dharna (concentration), Dhyana (meditative absorption) and Samadhi (union, integration). It is all of these elements together that lead a person to a life of bliss and peace.

Understanding and practicing all these elements can take time and thus has to be worked with patience.

First proposed by the Indian PM, Mr. Narendra Modi in the United Nations General Assembly on the 27th of September, 2014, this day got its due recognition, following a worldwide celebration from 2015 onwards. 21st June was picked as a date for the occasion since that day is not only the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere but is also significant in many parts of the world. It has never been exacerbated more than now about the psychological suffering among people across the globe, as if we are in the same uncertain boat, all at once.

THE THEME

The Ministry of Ayush organizes various activities in light of the propitious day. Keeping in view the current pandemic that has circumscribed us, this year’s theme is “Be with Yoga, Be at home”. This event is going to be held virtually consisting of panel discussions and webinars on mental wellbeing, the holistic approach of yoga on human physiology and psychology, demonstration of yoga (asanas) in combating ill health and thereby promoting spiritual health. Whosoever wishes to be a part of the event can register themselves and partake in the celebrations from the comfort of their homes.

Everybody’s journey and association with yoga can be different, but what remains the same is the outcome, the positive effect it has had on people. The key is to not compare your progress with anyone else, rather focus on being more peaceful and happy with your own growth and individual progress.