Honourable Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi proposed the International Day of Yoga as a prestigious annual event to be celebrated worldwide on June 21st during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, and subsequently adopted by the UN, recognizing the profound impact of Yoga on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. This day serves as a global platform to raise awareness about the benefits of practising Yoga and promotes harmony and balance in individuals and communities. This year we are going to celebrate the 9th International Day of Yoga on the 21st of June.
Yoga is an ancient traditional practice that originated in India thousands of years ago. Rishi Patanjali has documented the first doctrine on Yoga as Patanjali Yoga Sutra. He has gifted this profound science to keep our bodies healthy and minds at peace. The practices of Yoga encompass physical postures (asana), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation that aim to create a state of union between the body, mind, and soul. The IDY celebrates this holistic approach to health and encourages people from all walks of life to embrace yoga as a means to enhance their overall well-being.
Yoga offers numerous physical benefits, such as increased flexibility, strength, and balance. Regular practice can improve posture, alleviate chronic pain, and enhance cardiovascular health. Moreover, yoga has proven to be an effective method for stress reduction and relaxation. The mindful breathing techniques and meditation practices foster mental clarity, reduce anxiety and depression, and promote emotional well-being.
The Ministry of AYUSH, Govt of India announces a different theme of IDY each year highlighting different aspects and benefits of the practice. Through various events, workshops, and demonstrations, participants engage in Yoga sessions, educational activities, and discussions about the positive effects of Yoga on individuals and society at large. Beyond the individual level, Yoga has a broader impact on society. It encourages a sense of unity, compassion, and harmony, promoting peace and understanding among diverse communities.
The International Day of Yoga promotes harmony and inclusivity of people of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels to experience the power of yoga techniques. It encourages individuals to embrace yoga as a path to holistic well-being. The celebration of this day creates an opportunity for people to come together, transcend boundaries, and experience the unity that yoga offers. As we commemorate this day, let us acknowledge and embrace the true essence of Yoga, integrating its principles into our lives to promote physical, mental, and spiritual harmony, both within ourselves and in our global community.
Sharda School of Humanities and Social Science (SSHSS) has a Department of Yogic Science which offers graduation and various value-added and co-curricular courses on Yoga availed by all the Schools of Sharda University. Prof. (Dr.) Anviti Gupta, Dean SSHSS, is very dynamic and keen on organising many outreach and extension activities for the benefits of Yoga to reach the masses through Departmental activities.
Shared By : Dr Ritu Chaku,
Sharda University.
