International Yoga Day: A Moment of Global Unity

Hello everyone! June 21st was International Yoga Day!

I have to admit... I completely forgot about it.

Even though I had planned to do something special for this day last year, I ended up forgetting.

How did all you yoga enthusiasts spend the day?

Since I missed it, I decided to do a little research on International Yoga Day!

What is International Yoga Day?

International Yoga Day is an event celebrated worldwide every year on June 21st.

It was proposed by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 and officially established in 2015.

This day aims to promote yoga and health, with yoga events and workshops held all around the globe.

Since I practice yoga every day, I think it would be wonderful if every day could be Yoga Day!

The History and Origins of Yoga

The history of yoga is said to date back about 5,000 years.

It originated in the ancient Indus Valley civilization of India and was initially practiced as a religious and spiritual discipline.

The teachings of yoga are documented in the Vedas, ancient Indian scriptures, and aim to harmonize the mind and body through meditation, breathing techniques, and poses.

Thinking about how yoga has been around since the time of Japan's Jomon period, 5,000 years ago, is truly exciting!

The Vedic Period

The concept of yoga first appeared in texts from the Vedic period (1500 BCE – 500 BCE).

During this time, yoga was primarily focused on rituals and prayers, seeking connection with the gods.

Classical Yoga

From 500 BCE to 500 CE, yoga practice began to develop a philosophical foundation.

One of the most famous works from this era is the "Yoga Sutras" compiled by Patanjali. This text describes yoga in eight stages (Ashtanga Yoga), making it a comprehensive guide for mental and spiritual development.

As a result, yoga became not only a form of spiritual practice but also an integral part of daily life.

Medieval Yoga

In medieval India, Hatha Yoga emerged and evolved. Hatha Yoga, known for its physical practices, established the foundations of modern yoga poses (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama). During this period, yoga spread as a practical methodology for strengthening both the body and mind.

Modern Yoga

From the 19th to the 20th century, yoga spread from India to the rest of the world.

Great yoga teachers like Swami Vivekananda and Tirumalai Krishnamacharya brought yoga teachings to the West.

Consequently, yoga gained widespread recognition as a beneficial health practice globally.

It's clear that yoga's timeless appeal has been loved by many people throughout the ages.

What will yoga be like in the future?

Thinking about how ancient wisdom influences our modern lives fills me with excitement!

The future of yoga is entrusted to us, the ones who practice it today!

How International Yoga Day is Celebrated Around the World

India

In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the main event at Dal Lake in Srinagar, with 3,000 to 4,000 participants.

Additionally, events like "Yog Mahotsav" and "Har Angan Yog" were held nationwide, engaging many local communities.

United States

In the United States, a large yoga event took place in New York's Times Square.

Many yoga enthusiasts participated, and free yoga classes were offered throughout the day.

Japan

In Japan, despite the rain, hundreds of yoga enthusiasts gathered at Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple in Tokyo.

They struck poses facing the main hall, enjoying the event together.

The idea of so many people gathering to practice yoga creates an incredible amount of energy.

What would it be like if people all over the world did yoga together...?

A Moment of Global Unity Through Yoga

International Yoga Day 2024 saw many people around the world participating in a day of health and peace.

I enjoyed my usual yoga session at the community center.

As more people embrace yoga, I am confident that we are moving closer to peace.

Our predecessors used yoga to promote harmony and health of mind and body, leaving behind a legacy of peace.

Yoga is not just an exercise; it's a means to find inner peace and balance.

By incorporating yoga into our daily lives, we can maintain our health and lead richer lives.

At Anna Style, I too look forward to enjoying every day through yoga!

I can't wait to share the joy of yoga with you at Anna Style!