Take out your yoga mat. Stretch your body, take some deep breaths and relax your mind. Join me and celebrate International yoga day!
Awareness about yoga
Yoga is an ancient practice that originated 6.000 years ago in India. It was developed as a way to interconnect the mind, body and soul. International yoga day will be celebrated on 21st of June. It’s a day for spreading awareness about the importance of yoga and its effects on health. The idea of this day was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India in 2014 during a speech for the United Nations General Assembly:
“Yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfilment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well-being. It is not about exercise but to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and nature. By changing our lifestyle and creating consciousness, it can help in well-being. Let us work towards adopting an International Yoga Day.”
The date of 21st of June was chosen as it is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. The first International yoga day was celebrated in 2015. Nearly 36.000 people, including Modi and many other high profile political figures from around the world, performed 21 asanas (yoga postures) for 35 minutes. This was the start of the first International yoga day.
Everyone can practice yoga
Yoga is for everyone. Size, age and fitness level doesn’t matter. It is about connecting with yourself and accepting yourself. It is a healthy habit. Some of the benefits of yoga:
- Reduces stress
- It improves your sleep
- Strengthens the spine
- Increases flexibility
- Maintains a balanced metabolism
I would like to encourage you to learn from the yogi lifestyle, yoga philosophy and become a better person. Watch some video tutorials or read a book to get to know more about yoga. Follow yoga classes and make time to develop some healthy habits. This year, the world is still facing the COVID-19 pandemic. Celebrate this day at home, alone or with your family.
Sources:
– Nationalday
– International Event Day
Jane Regina Sauer 
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