Today is the International Day of Yoga celebrated annually on June 21st. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 at the suggestion of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and unanimously by all 193 UN member states, highlighting the global recognition and importance of yoga..
The history of yoga goes back thousands of years, with its roots in ancient Indian philosophy and spirituality. The practice includes physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation and ethical principles aimed at achieving harmony between body, mind and spirit.
Yoga has been practiced in India for centuries and has evolved through various traditions and schools. Originally passed down orally from teacher to student, it was later documented in texts, the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which provided a systematic framework for the practice and philosophy of yoga.
The popularity of yoga began to spread around the world, especially in the 20th century. Influential yoga teachers, such as Swami Vivekananda and Paramahansa Yogananda, played a significant role in introducing yoga to the Western world. Yoga gained recognition as a holistic practice that promotes physical well-being, mental clarity, and spiritual growth.
The aim of International Yoga Day is to raise awareness of the many benefits of yoga practice and encourage its acceptance as a way to promote overall health and well-being. It celebrates the universal appeal of yoga and its potential to promote unity and harmony among people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Yoga sessions, workshops, seminars and cultural performances are held around the world on this day. It is an opportunity for us to try, expirience, learn and explore different aspects of yoga regardless of age, level of fitness or previous experience.
The celebration of the International Day of Yoga reflects the recognition of yoga as a holistic approach to physical and mental well-being. It serves as a reminder of the importance of incorporating mindfulness, balance, and self-care into our lives, allowing us to exist and experience life in a healthier and more harmonious way of our existence.
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