Let Us Be Fit This International Yoga Day
The only way to experience true well being is to turn inward. This is what yoga means – not up, not out, but in. The only way out is in.
~Sadhguru
With International Yoga Day (IDY) just around the corner, we thought it is important that we understand the significance of this day which has transformed people's perspective about Yoga from a form of exercise to a
way of living.
Yoga
Let us be fit
Yoga is an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition. The word "Yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj meaning "to join", "to yoke" or "to unite", symbolizing the unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between man and nature and a holistic approach to health and well-being. Through yoga, you can explore profoundly the very mechanics of life.
Origin of International Yoga Day
The seed of thought of observing 21
st June as the International Yoga Day was germinated in the mind of our Prime Minister Modi ji. He presented his proposal during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly. In 2015, it was celebrated for the very first time at Rajpath and the trail was hit.
The historical significance of the day
International Yoga Day
June the 21st is summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere From the perspective of yoga, the summer solstice marks the transition to Dakshinayana, which considered a time when there is a natural support for those pursuing spiritual practices. The first full moon after summer solstice is known as Guru Poornima. Shiva, the first yogi (Adi Yogi), is said to have begun imparting the knowledge of yoga to the rest of mankind on this day and became the first guru (Adi Guru).
Resolution by United Nations
It is very difficult for any philosophy, religion or culture to survive without state patronage. Recognizing the universal appeal of Yoga, on 11th December 2014, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a resolution (resolution 69/131) proclaiming 21st June as the International Day of Yoga (IDY). A total of 177 nations co-sponsored the resolution, which is the highest number of co-sponsors ever for any UNGA resolution of such nature. Now, official recognition by the UN would further spread the benefit of yoga to the entire world. This could be a kind of a foundation stone to make a scientific approach to the inner
well-being of the human being.
It is time to begin yoga
Initiatives by Indian Government
A Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) is developed by most accomplished yoga gurus of India, which is essentially a specified sequence of Yoga Asanas of 45 minutes duration. The Asanas and practices forming part of the CYP are selected in such a way as to yield the maximum health & wellbeing rewards to a diverse group of people.PM's Yoga awards( one International and other National) with a purpose to recognize and felicitate individual(s)/ organization(s) who have made a substantial impact on the society for a sustained period of time by way of promotion and development of Yoga. More than 7 million people have pledged to make Yoga an integral part of their daily life people on the ministry of Aayush website (
http://yoga.ayush.gov.in).
International Yoga Day around the world
From hundreds of yoga enthusiasts participating in a mass yoga class at Times Square to a parliamentary league for the promotion of Yoga being set up in Japan, IDY is celebrated with great exuberance all across the Globe. More than 170 countries took part in this event which was celebrated for the first time on the 21st of Jan, 2015. Activities like yoga training campus, yoga competitions, and so many more are organized to enhance our awareness about the innumerable benefits that we can derive by practicing yoga on a daily basis. This year would be no different with thousands of events are being organized to promote Yoga as a way of living rather than just being a form an exercise.
What can an individual do?
To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise, we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.
~ Buddha
International Yoga Day gives us a rare opportunity to be a part of a worldwide phenomenon, without even leaving our houses. It's a perfect day for the neophyte to start a wondrous journey of healthy mind and body. You can watch a live stream or find an event nearby celebrating the day. Grab a friend, family member, or go by yourself and but do participate. And if there’s no event taking place in your local community, take an initiative to start one!
Yoga holds the keys to unlock the great potential in us. We just need to believe in its power and try to make it a part of our daily lives. I hope this article help spark a fire within you to support the yoga movement, especially on International Yoga Day!
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