The International Day of Yoga, celebrated annually on June 21st, holds special significance as it marks the culmination of a decade-long journey since its inception in 2015. This year, as we commemorate the 10th International Day of Yoga, the global community comes together to celebrate the transformative power of yoga and its profound impact on individuals and societies worldwide.
Table of Contents
Theme for International Day of Yoga 2024
The official theme for International Yoga Day 2024 is “Yoga for Women Empowerment” This theme underscores the pivotal role of yoga in promoting the well-being and empowerment of women across the globe. As we embark on this milestone celebration, it is imperative to recognize the unique challenges faced by women and the transformative potential of yoga in addressing these challenges.
Promoting Women’s Well-being
The goal of Yoga Mahotsav 2024 is to propel yoga into a widespread movement, with a special emphasis on promoting women’s well-being and advancing global health and peace. The Ministry of Ayush has actively supported research on various health conditions affecting women, such as PCOS/PCOD and stress management, to prioritize women’s health regardless of their age or circumstances. This initiative aims to promote women’s empowerment through evidence-based research and targeted interventions.
Comprehensive Tool for Empowerment
Yoga serves as a comprehensive tool for empowering women, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Through the practice of yoga, women can cultivate strength, resilience, and self-awareness, enabling them to navigate life’s challenges with grace and confidence. Moreover, yoga fosters a sense of inner balance and harmony, empowering women to embrace their true potential and lead fulfilling lives.
The History of International Day of Yoga
The origins of International Yoga Day trace back to 2014, when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the concept during his address to the United Nations General Assembly. He highlighted yoga as “an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition” and emphasized its potential to contribute to a healthier planet. PM Modi explained that yoga transcends physical exercise, offering a path to discovering a sense of unity with oneself, the world, and nature.
The proposal was warmly received, and on December 11, 2014, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 69/131, designating June 21 as International Yoga Day. This resolution encouraged all UN member states to “observe International Yoga Day annually, to raise awareness of the many benefits of yoga.”
The first International Yoga Day was celebrated on June 21, 2015, with events in over 190 countries. Since then, it has become a global annual event celebrated by millions.
Significance of International Day of Yoga
International Yoga Day serves several key purposes:
- Raising Awareness: It highlights the benefits of yoga, which include reducing stress, improving flexibility, and increasing strength.
- Promoting Yoga: It encourages people worldwide to practice yoga, a universal activity suitable for all ages and abilities.
- Cultural Heritage: It celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage, honoring the tradition of yoga that originated there thousands of years ago.
- Promoting Peace and Harmony: Yoga teaches focus on the present moment, helping individuals to let go of stress and negativity, fostering peace and harmony.
Through these initiatives, International Yoga Day aims to connect people with their inner selves, promoting overall well-being and fostering a sense of global unity.
9th Edition of International Day of Yoga 2023
In its 9th edition, International Yoga Day was notably led by PM Narendra Modi at the UN Headquarters on June 21st, marking the first time the Prime Minister conducted a yoga session at this esteemed location.
Key initiatives included:
- 100 Days, 100 Cities, and 100 Organizations: A campaign to promote yoga nationally, improving health and well-being.
- Ocean Ring of Yoga: Demonstrations at various ports, on ships, and in friendly countries, showcasing yoga’s global unity.
- Arctic to Antarctica: Yoga demonstrations across a wide geographical range.
- Yog Bharatmala: Demonstrations by the Indian Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Border Road Organisation at borders, coasts, and islands.
- Har Aangan Yog: Grassroots demonstrations by Panchayats, Anganwadis, Asha/ANM workers, and local communities.
- Prime Minister’s Yoga Awards (PMYA): Recognizing outstanding contributions to the promotion and development of yoga.
- IDY Quiz Contest: An online quiz contest on MyGov for public engagement.
