International Day of Yoga

 The international day of Yoga has been celebrated annually on 21 June since 2015, following its inception in the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. Yoga not only provides physical and mental relaxation but also develops strength and resilience. The numerous benefits of Yoga make it a popular practice for people across the globe, especially in times of a pandemic when mental and physical stress is under stress.

HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY

Yoga is believed to have originated in India thousands of years ago and also it's details have been found in ancient mythological books like Rig Veda. On 27 September 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his speech at the United Nations General Assmbly(UNGA), proposed the idea of practicing " Yoga Day".

In his speech Modi termed Yoga as an " Invaluable Gift of India's ancient tradition" are highlighted the importance of yoga for maintaining 'harmony between men and nature'. The draft resolution passed by India was backed by 177 nations and the first International Yoga Day was celebrated on June 21, 2015.

Theme for International Yoga  Day 2021:

According to the UN website, the theme for International Yoga Day 2021 is "Yoga for well-being" i.e how the practice of Yoga can promote the holistic health of every individual. With the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating psychological suffering and mental health problems , many people have been embracing yoga to stay healthy and fight isolation and depression.

As per the website, the message of Yoga in promoting both the physical and mental well being of humanity has been more relevant. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also asked its member States to practice Yoga and has included it in its Global Action Plan for physical activity 2018-30.

Significance of Yoga Day:

Yoga Day is celebrated across the globe to highlight the importance of yoga and how it has been beneficial in keeping the body and mind in sound health. Considered as a holistic approach and targeting the different systems of the body and mind, Yoga renews the mind with confidence. It calms the mind and improves concentration and patience. Practicing asans and Pranayama regulates the purification of the internal system of the organs. The energy generated in the body through these physical exercises is then channelled into meditation for peace, stability and calm.

How to watch the International Yoga Day Event 2021:

The Yoga Day event for 2021 will be webcast live on June 21, 2021, from 0830hrs on UN Web TV and social media pages of the permanent Mission of India. Yoga Day celebrations are supported by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and the State Bank of India in NewYork.

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