International Yoga Day- Everything You Need To Know!

Introduction

Yoga is the true essence of life, providing a way to unite our physical, mental, and spiritual realms. Originating in India thousands of years ago and practised and preserved by saints and sages over the years, this ancient tradition brings harmony and balance to our lives, promoting physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. The word ‘Yoga’ comes from the ancient language Sanskrit, meaning to join or unite, representing the harmonious relationship between the body, mind, and spirit. Yoga practices that integrate movement, breathing, and meditation help us connect with our inner self and the world around us.

Even though people around the world have recognized the benefits of yoga by now, International Yoga Day is celebrated every year on the 21st of June to deepen this understanding and spread awareness about the importance of yoga. In this article, we will learn about every aspect of International Yoga Day and the benefits of practising yoga.  

Origin of International Yoga Day

India has always understood the importance of yoga practices, which include yoga postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation (dhyana), and cleansing techniques. These practices are deeply rooted in Indian culture and have been a part of daily life for centuries.

To spread the importance of yoga globally and promote the well-being of people around the globe, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi proposed the idea of ​​International Yoga Day during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. The United Nations-supported this proposal, and as a result, the 21st of June was declared International Yoga Day. This proclaimed Yoga Day encourages people from all countries to practice yoga and experience its incredible benefits. The first festival of International Yoga Day was celebrated on 21st June 2015, and millions of people from all over the world participated in various yoga programs and activities.

Why is the 21st of June Celebrated as International Yoga Day?

21st June is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, known as the summer solstice. This day holds special significance in many cultures and is considered a time of change and renewal. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva, the first yogi (Adi Yogi), is believed to have started sharing the knowledge of yoga with humanity on this day and became the first teacher (Adi Guru). Also, in the context of yoga, it symbolizes the connection between the Sun and the Earth, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced and harmonious life. Yoga Day benefits include improved flexibility, reduced stress, and enhanced overall wellness.

Celebration of International Yoga Day

Since 2015, International Yoga Day has been celebrated every year with great enthusiasm in cities across India and around the world. Various programs like guided yoga sessions, workshops, and seminars are often organized on this auspicious day in public places such as parks, community centers, and schools. Participants of all ages and skill levels come together to practice yoga, learn about its benefits, and share their experiences.

International Yoga Day in Rishikesh, India

Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World”, Rishikesh plays an important role in the celebration of International Yoga Day every year. Rishikesh is a beautiful city situated on the banks of the river Ganges and in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is globally renowned for its spiritual atmosphere and innumerable yoga ashrams and schools. The city’s peaceful, natural surroundings and centuries-old yogic heritage make it an ideal destination for yoga practitioners from all over the world.

Our Yoga School in Rishikesh, India, Rishikul Yogshala Rishikesh

At Rishikul Yogashala, our esteemed Yoga School in Rishikesh, we take pride in contributing to the global celebration of International Yoga Day, also known as “Yoga Mahotsav”. Apart from conducting yoga sessions on this special day, our school also offers regular yoga courses that help people deepen their practice and understanding of yoga. Our school offers a range of programs from beginner-level courses (200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh) to intermediate (300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh) and advanced teacher training (500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh).

The ideal environment of our yoga school, guided by experienced and certified teachers, ensures a comprehensive experience to help individuals learn, understand, and deepen their yoga practice and enable them to spread their knowledge for the benefit of others. Our carefully crafted Yoga Teacher Training Courses in Rishikesh help develop a deeper understanding of yoga, improve physical fitness, promote mental well-being, and spread yogic wisdom for the benefit of individuals and communities around the world.

Significance of International Yoga Day

• Global Awareness: Celebrated globally every year, this day raises awareness about the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of practising yoga.
• Promotion of Health: The celebration encourages people across the world to adopt a healthy lifestyle through regular yoga practice.
• Unity and Peace: The collective activities undertaken during the International Yoga Festival help bring together people from diverse backgrounds and thus promote the feeling of unity and peace among them.
• Promotes Overall Health: The day dedicated to the ancient practice promotes overall health by combining physical exercise, breath control, and meditation for overall well-being.
• Improves Mental Health: Now, it is a widely known fact that yoga helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, promote mental clarity, and help balance emotions. In this way, it helps improve overall mental health.
• Creates Job Opportunities: The global awareness raised by International Yoga Day celebrations over the past few years has given yoga teachers and practitioners a chance to share their knowledge and find job opportunities around the world.

Different Ways To Celebrate International Yoga Day

International Yoga Day is a global event celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. It promotes the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga. Below are the different ways to celebrate 21 June, International Yoga Day.

• Practice Mindful Breathing: Daily mindful breathing can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and help your mind and body experience peace.  To celebrate International Yoga Day, start a mindful breathing or pranayama practice. To do pranayama, close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths, focusing your awareness on the sensation of air entering and leaving through your nose.

• Attend Yoga Classes: Being a part of yoga classes at an event or online is a great way to learn and practice yoga with guidance. This day provides an ideal opportunity to explore different styles of yoga from experienced instructors. It helps you learn structured sessions that can help you improve your techniques, stay motivated, and connect with like-minded yoga enthusiasts.

• Meditation: Meditation is an essential part of Yoga Day celebrations. Set aside time each day, preferably in the morning, to practice meditation. Find a quiet place, sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on breathing or a simple mantra. It will help you start your day with a clear mind, reduce stress, and improve your overall mental health, bringing peace and balance into your life.

• Practice Gratitude: You can also take a moment during your yoga or meditation practice to think about the things for which you are grateful. Make it a practice to take time every day to reflect and appreciate these things. Focusing on gratitude can improve your mood, reduce stress, and help you develop a more positive outlook, bringing happiness into your life.

• Learn Yoga Philosophy: Yoga is not just about physical flexibility or mental health; it helps you understand the essence of life. Read books like the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali or the Holy Bhagavad Gita to explore its deeper teachings. You can also join our introductory 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh to learn about yoga’s philosophy and spiritual aspects. This knowledge can deepen your practice and help you apply yoga principles to your daily life.

• Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Commit to eating healthy by choosing nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods give your body energy and keep you strong. Drink plenty of water and reduce your intake of sugary beverages and packaged foods. Include regular yoga practice in your daily routine, and get adequate sleep every night. Adopting a healthy lifestyle helps improve your overall health and energy levels.

• Spread The Word About Yoga: A more meaningful way to celebrate International Yoga Day is to share the benefits of yoga with your family and friends and encourage them to join or practice a class with you. Practice yoga with them daily, help them perform each asana correctly, and teach them proper breathing techniques. It will help everyone experience the positive effects of yoga and improve their overall health.

Final Words

International Yoga Day celebrates the timeless practice of yoga, which inspires and helps people around the world to live healthier and better lives. Whether you are new to yoga or experienced, this day dedicated to yoga gives you an opportunity to join millions of people who take a step forward towards holistic well-being, inner peace, and eternal harmony.

We at Rishikul Yogshala, Rishikesh, invite you to experience the true essence of yoga in the beautiful land of the Himalayas. Join us for International Yoga Day celebrations and deepen your yoga practice by enrolling in our 200 Hour Yoga TTC In Rishikesh. For those interested in deepening their yoga journey, consider enrolling in a yoga teacher training program. Rishikul Yogshala, a leading Yoga school in Rishikesh, offers comprehensive courses like the 100 Hour Yoga Teacher Training In Rishikesh, 300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training In Rishikesh, and 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Rishikesh. These programs are designed to help you master your practice and share the transformative power of yoga with others.