International Yoga Day 2024: Every year on June 21, the International Day of Yoga is celebrated worldwide to raise awareness about yoga’s health and well-being benefits. This year’s International Yoga Day theme also educates about Yoga, which originated thousands of years ago in India.
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It is yoga’s core concept to maintain balance – not only by balancing the body but also by balancing one’s relationship with the world. Meditation, moderation, discipline, and perseverance are some of the values that are emphasized in yoga. Yoga offers a sustainable way of living for communities and societies.
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International Yoga Day Theme 2024
The theme of this year’s International Day of Yoga is “Yoga for Self and Society“. This day, observed on June 21, emphasizes the importance of yoga. The day is celebrated worldwide with a variety of events.
What is Yoga?
The practice of yoga originated in India and is known for its physical, mental and spiritual dimensions. Yoga is a Sanskrit word meaning joining or uniting, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness. Various forms of yoga are being practiced around the world today, and its popularity continues to grow.
International Day of Yoga – History
By resolution 69/131 on 11 December 2014, the United Nations declared 21 June to be the International Day of Yoga.
A record 175 members of the United Nations endorsed the proposed resolution establishing an International Day of Yoga. During the opening address of the 69th session of the General Assembly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi first introduced the proposal: “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition.”. Essentially, Yoga is a way to unite the mind and the body, as well as thought and action, resulting in a holistic approach beneficial to our health. The practice of yoga isn’t just about exercise; it’s about finding oneness with oneself, the world, and the natural universe.”
Significance of International Yoga Day
The purpose of the International Day of Yoga is to raise awareness of the many benefits of practicing yoga throughout the world.
Among the highest causes of death in the world, physical inactivity is among the leading causes of death, as well as a key risk factor for noncommunicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes, notes the resolution.
A renowned practitioner of yoga, the late B. K. S. Iyengar, said, “Yoga cultivates the ability to maintain a balanced attitude in everyday life and imparts skill in execution.”
International Day of Yoga Activities
The activities that can be done on the International Day of Yoga are:
- Morning Sun Salutations: Start your day by embracing the gentle warmth of the rising sun as you flow through a series of invigorating Sun Salutations. Feel the energizing rays filling you with vitality and setting the tone for a harmonious day ahead.
- Community Yoga Class: Join a local yoga studio or community center to participate in a group yoga class. Connect with fellow yoga enthusiasts, share positive energy, and experience the collective power of practicing together. Feel the support and unity that arise from a shared commitment to wellness.
- Outdoor Yoga in Nature: Find a serene spot in nature, whether it’s a peaceful park, a tranquil beach, or a quiet forest, and roll out your mat. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the gentle sounds of nature, and allow the natural surroundings to enhance your yoga practice. Connect with the earth beneath you and feel a profound sense of grounding and harmony.
- Family Yoga Session: Gather your loved ones, whether it’s your immediate family or close friends, and create a joyful and inclusive yoga session. Engage in playful partner poses, encourage laughter, and create a space of love and connection. Experience the joy of practicing yoga together, fostering deeper bonds and a shared sense of well-being.
- Meditative Yoga Retreat: Dedicate the International Day of Yoga to deepening your meditation practice. Find a serene and quiet space in your home or visit a local meditation center. Settle into a comfortable seated position, focus on your breath, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquility. Allow your mind to find stillness and experience the profound benefits of meditation.
- Yoga for Self-Care: Take this day to prioritize your self-care and well-being. Indulge in a restorative yoga session, using props and gentle stretches to relax and rejuvenate your body. Treat yourself to a soothing bath with essential oils, practice mindfulness, or engage in any activity that nourishes your mind, body, and spirit.
- Yoga and Art Fusion: Combine your love for yoga and creativity by engaging in a yoga and art fusion activity. Express your inner self through painting, drawing, or sculpting inspired by your yoga practice. Allow the creative process to be a form of meditation and self-expression, capturing the essence of your yoga journey through art.
WHO Mobile App on Yoga – mYoga
As of June 20, 2021, WHO has launched the WHO mYoga app, which helps people stay active and healthy. It is a safe and secure app that does not collect any personal data from users.
A collection of videos and audio files are included in the app, which is easy to use as well as free for people seeking to learn or practice yoga the first time or for those who already practice yoga regularly.
Basic Yoga Poses for Beginners List
Folwing is the list of basic yoga poses that are beginner-friendly.
- Balasana (Child’s Pose)
- Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)
- Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-Facing Dog)
- Bhujangasana (Cobra)
- Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge)
- Utkatasana (Chair Pose)
- Virabhadrasana (Warrior One)
- Virabhadrasana II (Warrior Two)
- Vrksasana (Tree Pose)
- Utthita Trikonasana (Triangle)
- Kumbhakasana (High Plank)
- Uttanasana (Standing Fold)
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International Day of Yoga FAQs
Every year on June 21, the international day of Yoga is observed.
The Yoga Day theme for 2024 is ” Yoga for Self and Society”.
In 2015 the first International Day of yoga was observed.
Balasana (Child’s Pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog), Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-Facing Dog), Bhujangasana (Cobra) are basic yoga poses.
mYoga is the mobile app that was launched by the World Health Organization.
Yoga Mahotsav-2024, a grand event was organized 13th March 2024 to commemorate 100 Days Countdown to IDY -2024 at Vigyan Bhawan. The event was celebrated with this year’s IDY theme “Yoga for Women Empowerment”.