As the world has learned the benefits of this mindfulness activity, we have been officially celebrating International Yoga Day on June 21 since 2015!
This day is marked to remember to indulge in yoga and reap its benefits for the body and mind. Recognizing this day with the following suggested yoga activities provides us with an excellent opportunity to rewind and incorporate yoga into our daily routine!
Ways to Celebrate International Yoga Day
1. Take Part in a Yoga Event
Participating in community yoga events is the most popular way to celebrate International Yoga Day. Sure, this is an everyday activity you may see everywhere, but it’s the core that connects everybody, from kids to elders, to practice yoga and motivate each other!
2. Take an Online Yoga Course
You might’ve heard about taking a yoga class from home. But what about getting a yoga course from the comfort of your couch? Courses can differ from a yoga session class, where you learn different poses and build a foundation on the subject.
Today, different platforms provide high-quality content for free! Especially on Yoga Day, you may find different websites and studios offering free webinars or online classes. This is a flexible way to look after your health that can fit your preferences and schedule.
3. Take an Asana Challenge
Are you not a beginner in this holistic activity? Why not try your hand at something new by doing an asana that is challenging but just as rewarding?
If you have been thinking of doing a yoga pose but have been afraid to do it because you find it difficult, then after enough practice, you can finally take the sign to celebrate International Yoga Day and do that specific yoga pose to celebrate the day!
4. Host a “Yoga” Potluck
Yes, you heard it right—a yoga potluck! To celebrate International Yoga Day even after the day is finished, you can invite friends and community members for a potluck snack party or dinner. This activity is after a refreshing yoga session, where everyone can get a healthy dish to share and make a whole day out of it.
5. Host or Go To Session on the Philosophy of Yoga
Discussing the history and philosophy of this spiritual activity, like yoga sutras, can help you make a difference as you get to know the understanding of yoga that can help you during physical practice.
6. Teach Yoga Poses to kids
If children get into this healthy activity right from childhood, it would benefit their overall health. Yoga helps us in different ways, like increasing our muscle flexibility and immunity. It also calms our minds and boosts immunity!
7. Plan a Family Yoga Day
Organizing a special session for the whole family to celebrate International Yoga Day can be a new and exciting moment for everybody. Apart from doing physical poses and introducing people to the benefits of this activity, you can plan the day with games and foods that make the day more fun!
8. Book Tickets for a Yoga Retreat
Attending a Yoga Retreat can make. You feel part of a community and focus on different aspects of yoga, like breathing techniques or meditation. The focus is on your personal growth in this mystical experience.
Remember that yoga retreats can be heavily crowded on special days, especially when people come to International Yoga Day, so book in advance!
Frequently Asked Questions on International Yoga Day 2024
Q. Why has June 21 been chosen as International Yoga Day?
June 21 has been chosen to celebrate International Yoga Day because it is the day with the maximum amount of sunlight of the year. It is also called Summer Solstice, which makes it one of the best days to go outside and do yoga.
Q. What are the benefits of practicing yoga?
There are numerous benefits to practicing yoga, like enhancing your overall health by improving your flexibility and developing a better posture. It is also considered a spiritual and holistic activity that refreshes your mind and helps you relax. This can reduce feelings of mental health conditions like stress and anxiety.
António Guterres, secretary-general of the United Nations, quotes:
“Yoga unites. It unites body and mind, humanity and nature, and millions of people across the globe, for whom it is a source of strength, harmony, and peace in a dangerous and divided world.
The benefits of this ancient practice are particularly precious. Yoga offers a Haven of Calm; it can reduce anxiety and promote mental well-being; it helps us to develop discipline and patience.
We are one on this International Day of Yoga; let us embrace the spirit of unity and resolve to build a better, more harmonious world for people, planets, and ourselves.”
Q. Are there any precautions to consider before starting a yoga practice?
Though yoga is not as rigorous a physical exercise activity as others, you still should take general precautions, like consulting with your healthcare professional, before beginning any new exercise regimen, even yoga. This is highly recommended, especially if you suffer from any medical condition or have recently undergone surgery or any other medical procedure.
Other precautions can include performing comfortable yoga poses, starting with easy poses and then moving to more challenging ones as a beginner, and informing your guide or instructor about your health limitations or injuries.
Conclusion
International Yoga Day 2024 can be seen as a sign of unity and well-being. Though yoga is an activity to be practiced every day, having a dedicated day reminds us to value this holistic activity, where people from all over the globe come together from all ages and backgrounds to embrace this age-old practice’s transformative potential.
