International Day of Yoga - Being with Self

 

The Yoga is India's ancient tradition and is more than a physical activity. Yoga is essentially a spiritual discipline based on subtle science, which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body.

"Yoga is the journey of the Self, through the Self, to the Self - Bhagavad Gita".

Yogas origin can be traced back of 5000 year's ago. Yoga is not just a form of exercise it is an Art that unites body and mind.

What is Yoga ?

Yoga is a ancient Hindu spiritual and ascetic discipline, a part of which including breath control, meditation and the adoption of specific bodily postures, is widely practiced for health and relaxation.

The word "Yoga" derived from the Sanskrit word "Yuj" which means "to unite". It is union of "Atma"(Individual consciousness) and "Paramatma"(Universal consciousness), which indicates a perfect harmony between the mind, body, man, nature and the universe.

Origin of the International Yoga Day

On September 27, 2014 during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly, (UNGA) Prime Minister Narendra Modi put forth his suggestion for the occasion of a "Yoga Day".

In his speech Prime Minister Modi called Yoga an "in valuable gift of India's ancient tradition" and called for the "harmony between man and nature" through Yoga.

This initiative was supported by as many as 177 Nations, the highest number of co-sponsors ever for any UNGA resolution of such nature.

Recognising it's universal appeal and following Prime Minister Modi's proposal, 21 st June was marked as the date to celebrate International Yoga Day. As this day marks the "summer solstice" the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, which holds special significance in many parts of the World .

From the perspective of Yoga the "summer solstice" mark's the transition to "Dakshin Ayana". The second full Moon after "summer solstice" is known as "Guru Poornima".

LORD SHIVA

Lord Shiva, the first Yogi(Adi Yogi) is said to have begun imparting the knowledge of Yoga to the rest of mankind on this day and became the first Guru (Adi Guru).

International  Day  of  Yoga  2024 Theme

The theme for this year's International Day of Yoga is "Yoga for Women Empowerment".

Significance of International Day of Yoga

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.

Yoga renews the mind with confidence. It calms the mind and improves, concentration and patience.

Yoga helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Yoga is a great way to increase spiritual and social health.

Yoga improves our  heart  health and respiratory health also it prevents various kind of disease.

Yoga boosts immunity and metabolism, it also aids in the weight loss journey.

Yoga increases flexibility and muscle strength, it also helps us in reducing hypertension.

The message of Yoga in promoting both physical and mental well being of humanity has never been more relevant. In the hard time of people around the Globe  are adopting the ancient teachings of Yoga to stay healthy and rejuvenated, to fight social isolation and depression.

Yoga is also playing a significant role in the psycho- social care rehabilitation of patients in quarantine and isolation. It is particularly helpful in allying their fears and anxiety.

The United Nations has been offering Yoga to its personal as a means to deal with physical and mental health.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recommended Yoga as means to improve health. Its various benefits include increased flexibility fitness, mindfulness and relaxation.

As this year on 21st June we celebrate the 10th International Day of Yoga.

I wish you all a happy and healthy life.

Yoga: Ancient Practice, Modern Benefits

This passage explores yoga, an ancient Indian tradition that goes beyond physical exercise. It emphasizes yoga's spiritual and holistic approach to well-being.

Key Points:

• Yoga originated in India over 5,000 years ago.
• It combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation for a mind-body connection.
• The word "yoga" means "to unite" in Sanskrit, signifying harmony between body, mind, and spirit.
• International Yoga Day, celebrated on June 21st, highlights yoga's significance for global health.

Benefits of Yoga:

• Improves mental and physical health
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Enhances flexibility and strength
• Promotes relaxation and focus
• Boosts immunity and overall well-being

Additional Information:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed International Yoga Day at the UN in 2014.
• The theme for 2024 is "Yoga for Women Empowerment," reflecting its role in coping with global challenges.
• Yoga is practiced by the UN and WHO to promote staff well-being.

                                                       By Viinod Baherani