INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA - ART AND CULTURE
News: Narendra
Modi arrives in New York; to lead Yoga Day at United Nations
What's in the news?
● The
Prime Minister is scheduled to lead the International Day of Yoga at the United
Nations before flying to Washington DC for the core of his state visit.
International Day of Yoga 2023:
● International
Yoga Day is celebrated annually on June 21.
Objective:
● It
is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the numerous benefits of
practicing yoga and promoting its holistic approach to health and well-being.
Theme:
● The
theme for International Yoga Day 2023 is
determined by the United Nations, which officially recognized this
observance in 2014.
● Each
year, the theme focuses on a specific aspect of yoga that highlights its
relevance and impact on society.
2023 Theme - “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”
is the theme for this year’s International Yoga Day 2023 which beautifully
captures our shared aspiration for “One
Earth, One Family, and One Future.”
History:
● The
history of International Yoga Day dates back to September 2014 when India’s
Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, proposed the idea during his address to the
United Nations General Assembly.
● He
emphasized the importance of yoga as a holistic approach to health and
well-being and suggested that June 21 should be declared as International Yoga
Day.
● His
proposal received overwhelming support from the UN member states, leading to
the adoption of June 21 as International Yoga Day by the United Nations General
Assembly in December 2014.
Significance:
The
significance of International Yoga Day lies in its ability to bring people from
various backgrounds, cultures, and nations together to celebrate and practice
yoga.
1. Physical and Mental Well-being:
● Yoga
is known for its positive impact on physical health, including increased
flexibility, strength, and balance.
● It
also helps improve mental well-being by reducing
stress, and anxiety, and promoting relaxation.
2. Global Unity:
● International
Yoga Day aims to foster unity among people across the world, transcending
boundaries of nationality, religion, and culture.
● Yoga
is a common thread that can bring
people together in the pursuit of holistic well-being.
3. Cultural Heritage:
● Yoga
has its roots in ancient Indian
traditions and philosophy.
● By
celebrating International Yoga Day, it honors and promotes the rich cultural
heritage associated with yoga and highlights its significance in global
wellness practices.
4. Global Adoption:
● International
Yoga Day serves as a platform to encourage and inspire people worldwide to
incorporate yoga into their daily lives.
● It
raises awareness about the
accessibility and adaptability of yoga for people of all ages and abilities.
5. Health Benefits:
● Yoga
has been recognized by the United Nations and various health organizations for
its potential in preventing and managing various health conditions.
● By
celebrating International Yoga Day, the aim is to promote healthier lifestyles
and preventive healthcare practices.
6. Sustainable Development:
● Yoga
approach aligns holistic principles with sustainable development, emphasizing
the well- being of individuals and the planet.
● It
promotes mindfulness, harmony with
nature, and a balanced approach to life.
Go back to basics:
Yoga:
● Yoga
is an ancient practice that originated in India and has gained worldwide
popularity for its physical, mental and
spiritual benefits.
Father of Yoga:
● Patanjali
is known as the father of modern yoga.
● In
some parts of India, Tirumalai
Krishnamacharya is also considered as the father of modern yoga.