Yoga is more than just a mindset; it’s a way of life. For many years, people have practised yoga not only for mental clarity but also for overall well-being. From meditation to basic stretching, yoga nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. With roots dating back over 5,000 years in India, yoga is now recognised and celebrated worldwide. To honor this ancient practice, we have International Yoga Day, which has been celebrated annually since 2014.
In 2025, International Yoga Day will take place on Saturday, June 21st. This year marks the 11th celebration, and the theme is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” This theme emphasizes the connection between personal well-being and the health of our planet. Through yoga, we can strengthen our bodies, calm our minds, and develop a greater sense of awareness and responsibility in our lives.
The term ‘yoga’ comes from Sanskrit and means to join or unite, highlighting the harmony between the body and the mind. Today, yoga is practiced in various forms all around the world and continues to increase in popularity. Recognizing its global significance, the United Nations officially designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga through resolution 69/131 on December 11, 2014.
How Did International Yoga Day Become So Important
The goal of International Yoga Day is to raise global awareness about the numerous benefits of yoga. The idea for this day was proposed by India and gained overwhelming support from 175 member states. Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the proposal during the 69th session of the General Assembly, where he shared that yoga is a precious gift from our ancient heritage, promoting unity of mind and body as well as a holistic approach to health.
The resolution also highlights the need for individuals to make healthier lifestyle choices. In this context, the World Health Organization encourages countries to address physical inactivity, which significantly contributes to various health issues like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
International Yoga Day Records
Interestingly, International Yoga Day holds two world records! The inaugural event on June 21, 2015, in New Delhi set records for the largest yoga class, with 35,985 participants, and for having the most nationalities (84) involved in a single session.
Where Will The Celebrations Take Place This Year
According to recent announcements, this year’s event will be held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, where Prime Minister Modi will lead a session with over 500,000 participants. Additionally, Yoga Sangams will occur at more than 100,000 locations across the country, making it one of the largest synchronized yoga demonstrations ever.
