International Day of Yoga 2024

About International Day of Yoga

An invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition, Yoga has emerged as one of the most trusted means to boost physical and mental well-being. 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 human and nature, and a holistic approach to health and well-being.

Due to Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi’s relentless efforts, June 21 was declared as the International Yoga Day by the United Nations General Assembly. In its resolution, the UNGA endorsed that "Yoga provides a holistic approach to health and well-being apart from striking a balance between all aspects of life. The wider dissemination of information about the benefits of practising Yoga would be beneficial for the health of the world population." This infused an era of holistic health revolution in which attention was given more to prevention rather than the cure.

Centuries ago one of the most popular Sanskrit poets Bhartrhari, while highlighting the specialty of Yoga, said:

धैर्यं यस्य पिता क्षमा च जननी शान्तिश्चिरं गेहिनी
सत्यं सूनुरयं दया च भगिनी भ्राता मनः संयमः।
शय्या भूमितलं दिशोSपि वसनं ज्ञानामृतं भोजनं
एते यस्य कुटिम्बिनः वद सखे कस्माद् भयं योगिनः।।

Meaning that by regularly practising Yoga, a person can imbibe some very good qualities like courage which protects like a father, forgiveness as possessed by a mother & mental peace which becomes a permanent friend. Through regular practise of Yoga truth becomes our child, mercy our sister, self-control our brother, the earth becomes our bed & knowledge satiates our hunger.

Every year, International Yoga Day chooses a different theme to center the festivities and events around a different facet of yoga. 2024's theme is "Yoga for Self and Society."

IIA in action

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF ASTROPHYSICS CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY 2024 WITH ENTHUSIASM AND ZEAL

IIA, Bengaluru and all IIA observatories observed the International Day of Yoga with great enthusiasm and participation on 21st June 2024. The event was attended by IIA staff, learning the significance of yoga in enhancing flexibility and resilience as a way of life.

Participants performed a series of yoga postures and breathing exercises. The event commenced with a brief warm-up exercise, followed by a guided yoga session that left participants invigorated and relaxed.

Attendees learned the importance of integrating yoga into daily routines for overall well-being and role of yoga in fostering physical and mental resilience, encouraging all to adopt yoga as a lifelong practice.