June 21, 2011
The United Nations General Assembly declares June 21 as the International Day of Yoga, recognizing its universal appeal and benefits.
New York City, United States | United Nations
On June 21, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga. This decision was made to recognize the universal appeal and numerous benefits of yoga, a practice that has been embraced worldwide for its holistic approach to health and well-being.
The proposal for an International Day of Yoga was first introduced by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, during his address to the UN General Assembly on September 27, 2014. In his speech, Modi highlighted yoga as an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition, emphasizing its role in promoting harmony between mind and body, thought and action, and man and nature.
The resolution to establish the International Day of Yoga was adopted on December 11, 2014, with an overwhelming support of 177 out of 193 member states co-sponsoring the resolution. This marked one of the highest numbers of co-sponsors for any UN General Assembly resolution. The adoption of the resolution was a testament to the global recognition of yoga’s benefits and its potential to foster global health and peace.
June 21 was chosen as the International Day of Yoga because it is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, which holds special significance in many parts of the world. In yoga, the summer solstice is considered a time of transition and transformation, making it an ideal date to celebrate the practice.
Since its inception, the International Day of Yoga has been celebrated globally with enthusiasm and participation from people of all ages and backgrounds. Events and activities are organized worldwide, including mass yoga sessions, workshops, and educational seminars, to raise awareness about the benefits of yoga and encourage its practice.
The day serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle and the role of yoga in achieving physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It also underscores the potential of yoga to contribute to sustainable development and global peace.
The declaration of the International Day of Yoga by the United Nations reflects the growing recognition of yoga as a powerful tool for health and harmony. It highlights the practice’s ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, uniting people in the pursuit of a healthier and more peaceful world.
Source: www.un.org