Wellness & Mindfulness: Celebrating 10th International Yoga Day
“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” – The Bhagavad Gita.
The word "yoga," which means "to join or to unite," represents the fusion of the physical body and the mental consciousness. It was Indian PM Narendra Modi who suggested to the UN there should be a day set aside each year to celebrate yoga. June 21st was the date he chose, as it falls on the longest day in the year, the summer solstice, the day upon which Lord Shiva is said to have started teaching yoga to mankind. In recognition of its universal appeal, the United Nations declared 21 June to be the International Day of Yoga in 2014. The purpose of the International Day of Yoga is to increase public awareness of the various advantages of yoga practice. Since 2015, on June 21st, people all around the globe come together to celebrate World Yoga Day. This event serves as a reminder of the ancient practice of yoga and its profound benefits for the mind, body, and spirit. From its origins in ancient India to its widespread popularity in modern times, yoga inspires individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Yoga originated more than 5000 years ago in ancient Indian philosophy and spirituality. The word 'yoga' itself is derived from the Sanskrit word 'yuj,' which means to unite or join. From the physical postures of Hatha Yoga to the meditative practices of Raja Yoga, there is a vast range of yoga traditions that cater to different needs and preferences.
One of the reasons why yoga has become increasingly popular worldwide is its numerous benefits for physical and mental health. The practice of yoga includes a combination of Asanas (postures), Pranayama (breathing exercises), Meditation, and relaxation techniques, all of which work together to promote overall well-being.
Physically, yoga helps improve flexibility, strength, and balance. The various postures and movements in yoga help to stretch and strengthen muscles, improve circulation, and overall physical fitness. Regular practice of yoga can also help prevent injuries, reduce chronic pain, and boost the immune system.
Mentally, yoga is known for its stress-relieving and mood-enhancing properties. The mindful focus on breath and movement in yoga can help calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote mental clarity. Studies have shown that yoga can be an effective tool for managing stress, depression, and other mental health conditions. Meditation helps combat stress and related disorders. Practicing meditation helps reduce inflammatory responses as well.
Celebrating International Day of Yoga:
World Yoga Day is a global event that aims to raise awareness about the benefits of yoga and promote its practice among people of all ages and backgrounds. On this day, communities around the world come together to organize various activities and events to celebrate yoga in all its forms. These events may include free yoga classes, workshops, seminars, demonstrations, and other activities that highlight the diversity and richness of the yoga tradition.
The official theme for International Yoga Day 2024 is “Yoga for Women Empowerment” as decided by the United Nation. Since 2015, various yoga centers in Hong Kong have held different events during the World yoga day week be it seminars, free or introductory classes, outdoor sessions at Sun Yat Sen Park and Tamar. The Consulate General of India, HK & Macau, in collaboration with other institutes, is holding many talks, workshops and yoga sessions starting from May till June. In the past they also held free yoga classes every week, I’m not sure if they yet do.
In Pic: Google image Sun Yat Sen Park, IYD (Courtesy: Time Out mag,)
I am sharing a few links that I found and am sure there will be many more events and classes that will be announced closer to date.
Consulate General of India, HK & Macau https://www.cgihk.gov.in/news_detail/?newsid=524
LMYC in partnership with the Indian Consulate HK offers bouquet of Yoga classes designed specially to enhance your physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual health. You are entitled total of 10 Classes from different categories! TIMETABLE: https://yoga.org.hk/10th-idy/ Reservation link: https://forms.gle/QLM16syN8JjBS2Hz5
Art of Living Centre: https://www.artofliving.org/hk-en/hong-kong
Anahata Yoga Studio - https://www.yogacommunity.org/event-details/?id=9611
YAMA FOUNDATION – They service people with disabilities and special needs and raise funds for their free classes https://yamahk.org/latest-news/2024/5/19/yama-x-aia-vitality-hub-june-event-s
One of the key messages of World Yoga Day is the importance of unity and inclusivity. Yoga is a practice that goes beyond boundaries of culture, language, and religion, bringing people together in a spirit of harmony and mutual respect. So on June 21st, join the global celebration of World Yoga Day and take a step towards a healthier, more balanced life through the practice of yoga.
Happy Yoga Day to all! Namaste! OM SHANTI!
Wow this is such an interesting article, thank you Suman, I hadn't realised there was so much going on in my neighbourhood. And thank you for all the links re Yoga Day activities :)