International Yoga Day 2019: Here’s why Yoga Day is celebrated on June 21st

India is a land of diverse and rich culture. Invention of the zero by Aryabhatta was not the only thing that we gave to this world. Apart from our lip-smacking cuisine, silk stocking arts and crafts or a plethora of languages, our country has always been on the forefront. However, beyond these we now have Yoga which is spreading like wildfire across the globe.

Yoga was originated in India and is almost five thousand years old. It is practise which brings the soul and mind to peace and makes the body extremely flexible and healthy. A valued gem of this country, with every passing day we have more and more foreigners taking this practise up. The beauty of yoga is that it helps in curing many diseases both internally and any physical injury. Back on 11th December 2014, the United Nations General Assembly announced, International Yoga Day to be celebrated on June 21st.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the many benefits of Yoga during a UN Assembly. Ever since 2015 we’ve seen Yoga been celebrated on a large scale internationally. While many wondered why only June 21st, PM Modi had a valid reason. He said, “The date is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and has special significance in many parts of the world.” Not just that, the summer solstice is also extremely important as it marks the start of Yogic science.  

Every year Yoga Day is celebrated with a brand new theme and one that pushes forward the power of yog. June 2015 was Yoga for harmony and peace. June 2016 was themed, “Connect for youth”, June 2016 was themed, “Yoga for Heart”. June 2017 was themed “Yoga for Peace” and June 2019 - which is this year is again themed “Yoga for Climate Action”.

Many who practise Yoga preach it and speak at length about how this practise has transformed them both mentally and physically. Not just that they also feel connected to their soul and can focus much better in life. Also, as assumed by many that Yoga is only restrictive to a certain age group - there is no truth to this at all. Yoga can be practised by people and kids of any age as it only has perks and no harm.

The best way to pamper yourself is by taking care of your body, mind and soul.