Celebrating International Day of Yoga: Physical and Mental Benefits for a Healthier Life
June 21st marks the International Day of Yoga, which is dedicated to celebrating the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of practising yoga. This emphasises the practice of yoga as a means of achieving a healthier and more balanced lifestyle and has been going on since 2015. The theme of the International Day of Yoga 2023 is "Yoga for Wellness." As per the latest statistics released by the Yoga Federation, millions of people around the world celebrate this day by practising yoga.
Origin of International Day of Yoga
On December 11, 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21st as International Day of Yoga to raise awareness of the many benefits it provides (1). Yoga is known for reducing stress, improving flexibility, and promoting overall health and wellbeing. The International Day of Yoga aims to encourage people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to experience the benefits of yoga.
The Physical and Mental Benefits of Yoga
Yoga is an ancient practice that has been around for thousands of years. It is a practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Yoga has been praised for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, improve flexibility, balance and strength, and promote overall health.
Yoga consists of many postures or "asanas," each with their own set of benefits. Some of the most popular asanas include:
1. Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): This posture strengthens the arms, shoulders, and back while stretching the hamstrings, calves, and ankles. It also helps to relieve stress and fatigue (2).
2. Warrior 2 (Virabhadrasana II): This stretches the hips, groynes, and shoulders, and strengthens the legs and ankles (3).
3. Tree Pose (Vrksasana): This posture improves balance and strengthens the legs and ankles (4).
4. Child's Pose (Balasana): This helps to relieve stress and anxiety and is also a good stretch for the hips, thighs, and ankles (5).
5. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): This posture stretches the chest and improves posture, while also strengthening the arms and shoulders (6).
Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutation
Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutation is a sequence of twelve asanas performed in a particular order. The practice of Surya Namaskar has been practised for centuries in India and is a great way to start the day.
Surya Namaskar has several benefits, including:
1. Improves blood circulation throughout the body.
2. Strengthens the muscles of the arms, back, and legs.
3. Boosts metabolism and aids in weight loss.
4. Helps to relieve stress and anxiety.
5. Improves digestion and promotes overall wellbeing.
International Day of Yoga 2023
The International Day of Yoga plays a significant role in promoting the practice of yoga worldwide. In 2023, yoga enthusiasts from around the world will come together to celebrate the numerous benefits that yoga brings to our physical and mental health.
According to the Yoga Federation's statistics, there has been a significant increase in the number of people practising yoga. In 2021, over 500 million people were actively practising yoga around the world (7). This number is expected to increase significantly in the coming years.
Conclusion
Yoga has become increasingly popular in recent years as more people realise its numerous benefits. The International Day of Yoga is an excellent opportunity for people around the world to come together and celebrate the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of this ancient practice. As we celebrate the International Day of Yoga, let us commit ourselves to make yoga a regular part of our lives and experience the many benefits that it brings.
Share This Post On
0 comments
Leave a comment
You need to login to leave a comment. Log-in
