International Day of Yoga

International Day of Yoga, or commonly referred to as International Day of Yoga or Yoga Day. An international day for yoga was declared unanimously by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 11 December 2014. An International Day of Yoga was declared by the United Nations with the support of 177 countries including Canada & United States of America. Recognizing its universal appeal, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga. The Indian Prime Minister in his UN address suggested the date of 21 June, as it is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and shares special significance in many parts of the world. He Said, in his maiden address to the 69th UNGA on 27 September 2014, “Yoga embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well being.”

Proper physical exercises, known as asanas in Sanskrit, have a positive effect on all parts of the body: Similar to the function of oil in an engine, the asanas enhance the flexibility of the joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments, and stimulate circulation. Yoga exercises have a rejuvenating effect on the whole organism and are thus incomparable to any other system. When performed slowly and with awareness, the asanas give a sense of physical well-being. At the same time, they are a mental exercise in concentration and meditation.

About the Logo of International Day of Yoga

1. Folding of both hands in the logo Symbolise Yoga, the union, which reflects the union of individual Consciousness with that of universal Consciousness, a perfect harmony between mind & body, man & nature; a holistic approach to health & well being.
2. The brown leaves symbolise the Earth element, the green leaves symbolise the Nature, blue symbolises the Water element, brightness symbolises the Fire element and the Sun symbolise the source of energy and inspiration.
3. The logo reflects harmony and peace for humanity, which is the essence of Yoga.