International Yoga Day 2016

• International Yoga Day is celebrated on June 21^st
• The International Yoga Day was declared by The United Nations General Assembly on October 11^th 2014
• Yoga is an age old practice in India that has attained International fame because of its multiple benefits

Yoga is a form of physical exercise that is aimed at uniting the body, mind and soul. It is not associated with any religion, which has aided in its popularity. Though yoga is an art form that started in India, it has spread to many parts of the world owing to the benefits to health and well-being. Yoga focuses on breathing, meditation and working out specific muscles that strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility.

Benefits of Yoga

There are numerous benefits of yoga, including physical, mental and spiritual:

• Flexibility of muscles
• Strengthening of muscles
• Aids in weight reduction
• Calmness to the mind
• Provides greater immunity
• Better cardiac health
• Improved breathing patterns
• Increased energy that fills the day
• Lowers stress levels in the body

Yoga asanas are of different types and people with specific health conditions should choose asanas that are meant for them.

International Yoga Day

The idea of celebrating International Yoga Day was first mooted by Shri Shri Ravishankar, a Sadguru and a yoga exponent. However, the United Nations accepted the request for an International Day for Yoga when the Indian Prime Minster, Shri Narendra Modi put forth the request.

"This year’s observance of the International Day of Yoga highlights the important role healthy living plays in the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals, adopted last year by all 193 United Nations Member States."- Ban-Ki-Moon United Nations Secretary General.

Mr. Narendra Modi's request for celebrating International Yoga Day was supported by 175 member countries, including Canada, China and the U.S. This is one of the most overwhelming support received to pass any resolution in the United Nations Assembly. June 21^st was decided upon as the day for International Yoga day as it is the longest day of the year and it coincides with the day that Yoga is believed to have been taught by the Adiguru to saptarishis.

There has been tremendous popularity that has been generated, with many people from India, U.S, China and Canada gearing up for the day. The Prime Minister stated recently that he had not anticipated such ‘enormous enthusiasm’ for the day. "This unique occasion brings all of us together to celebrate the invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. Your support and participation last year and once again now, redeems our commitment to nurture and promote this ancient discipline and reaffirm yoga as the manifestation of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world as one family,” he said.

On June 21^st,10,000 people are expected to participate in the International Yoga Day by performing Yoga at the Rajpath, while the Prime Minister will participate in the celebrations at Chandigarh’s capitol complex.

International Yoga Day logo

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The logo chosen for the Yoga day has been carefully selected to represent the different facets of yoga. The folded hands show the union of mind and body, the element of the earth are represented by the brown leaves while the green leaves represent nature. The sun represents the source of energy and also for inspiration.

Celebrating International Yoga Day Across the World

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There are yoga sessions that are being conducted across the world to celebrate International Yoga Day. From Texas to China, the improved awareness and the passion of followers have made this awareness day a success already.

Tips to Practice Yoga Correctly

In order to be a part of this popular day and to benefit from the energy that combined sessions will radiate, it is important to take note of the following:

• Find out if a well-known yoga studio near home is hosting an event on June 21^st.
• Wear loose fitting clothes that are comfortable and will let you stretch your body
• Hydrate well by sipping water
• Get a yoga mat or a thick towel for use during yoga.

Practicing yoga every day will provide holistic healing, infusing energy into the mind, body and soul.

References:

1. International Day of Yoga 21.06.2016
   http://idayofyoga.org/index.php?route=information/information&information_id=4
2. International Day of Yoga
   http://www.un.org/en/events/yogaday/
3. The Benefits of Yoga
   http://www.osteopathic.org/osteopathic-health/about-your-health/health-conditions-library/general-health/Pages/yoga.aspx

Source-Medindia