Table of Contents
International Yoga Day
What is the meaning of “Yoga”? Why is ‘Yoga Day’ observed every year?
The word ‘yoga’ is derived from a Sanskrit word that means to unite or to join (body and consciousness). This day is observed every year to make people aware of the benefits of Yoga. Yoga improves flexibility, builds muscle strength, protects the spine, regulates blood flow, and helps in reducing weight.
It is a powerful tool to deal with uncertain circumstances and stress. It helps maintain physical as well as mental well-being. Hence, it makes a person feel lively.
When was it first observed?
Yoga day was first observed in 2015 and the Ministry of Ayush had made all the arrangements. Narendra Modi along with other dignitaries performed 21 asanas for 35 minutes at Rajpath in New Delhi.
This date has been particularly chosen because of Summer Solstice, which is when the sun shines brighter than any other day.
2021 THEME
Yoga has helped people around the world to stay healthy and to fight during the pandemic. It is particularly helpful in allaying their fears and anxiety. Therefore realizing its importance the theme for 7th International Day of Yoga is “Yoga for well- being”.
IYD 2021- CELEBRATION IN INDIA
- The event was held by the Union Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa- Rigpa and Homeopathy).
- PM Narendra Modi performed Yoga in Ranchi, Jharkhand with 18,000 participants. Chief Minister Raghubar Das, Ministers, and senior officials of the state were also present. It was celebrated at Prabhat Tara ground in the morning.
- PM Narendra Modi launched mYoga app which will be available worldwide. It was launched in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). The app aims to provide easy access to Yogic and training videos in different languages for people worldwide. It will also help in achieving the motto of ‘One World, One Health’.
- Yoga programmes were organized at 75 heritage locations across India with the theme ‘Yoga, An Indian Heritage’ on International Day of Yoga.
- The program was organized at 75 cultural heritage locations with the active participation of all institutions of the Ministry to commemorate 75 years of Independence.
SOME INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT YOGA
- Yoga is the oldest physical discipline originated in India. It is over 5000 years old.
- Maharshi Patanjali is known as the “father of yoga”. He compiled 195 Yoga Sutras that became the foundation of Yoga philosophy.
- B.K.S Iyengar has written the English bestselling book, ‘Light on Yoga: Yoga Dipika’.
- According to the Guinness World Records, Bette Calman (85 years old) from Australia is the world’s oldest yoga teacher
- On 21 June, 2015 at International Yoga Day, the Indian Postal Service released a stamp for yoga. The stamp has an outline of a seated yogi with the Anjali Mudra overhead.
When did the practice of Yoga originate?
It originated 5000 years back as a way to connect the mind and soul. It alleviates mental, chronic and physical pain which is why it was all the more popularised.
“Yoga is a mirror to look at ourselves from within.” One should realise that it is the point of spiritual practice to open our hearts and minds and to be more vigilant and live a peaceful life ahead. It’s the journey of the self, to the self through the self.
In our next blog, we will be discussing other current issues of national and international importance. If you don’t want to miss out on the next important blog.
Also Check World Refugee Yoga Day
