Yoga and its Celebration

“योगश्चित्तवृश्चत्तश्चिरोधः ” (Yogah citta vritti nirodhah), “Yoga is the cessation of the fluctuations
of the mind”.
This shloka emphasizes that the goal of yoga is not merely physical postures (asanas) but rather
the mastery of the mind and its tendencies. By controlling the fluctuations of the mind, one can
achieve a state of inner peace and liberation.
What is Yoga and why do we celebrate it?
Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word
‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and
consciousness.
Today it is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity.
Recognizing its universal appeal, on 11 December 2014, the United Nations proclaimed 21 June
as the International Day of Yoga
.
The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of
practicing yoga.
The draft resolution establishing the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India and
endorsed by a record 175 member states. The proposal was first introduced by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi in his address during the opening of the 69th session of the General Assembly, in
which he said: “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of
mind and body, thought and action … a holistic approach [that] is valuable to our health and our
well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with
yourself, the world and the nature.”
The resolution notes “the importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices
and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health.” In this regard, the World Health
Organization has also urged its member states to help their citizens reduce physical inactivity,
which is among the top ten leading causes of death worldwide, and a key risk factor for non
communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes.
But yoga is more than a physical activity. In the words of one of its most famous practitioners,
the late B. K. S. Iyengar, “Yoga cultivates the ways of maintaining a balanced attitude in day-to
day life and endows skill in the performance of one’s actions.”
2025 Theme: Yoga for One Earth, One Health
This year 2025 marks the 11th International Day of Yoga with the theme “Yoga for One Earth,
One Health”, which echoes a vital truth that personal wellness and planetary health are
inseparably linked. Yoga strengthens the body, calms the mind and fosters a heightened sense
of awareness and responsibility in daily life. This mindfulness allows one to choose healthier
and more sustainable lifestyles. In caring for ourselves, we begin to care for the Earth, reflecting
the enduring Indian ethos of ” Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family.
Yoga in the Intangible Cultural Heritage
The philosophy behind the ancient Indian practice of yoga has influenced various aspects of
how society in India functions, whether it be in relation to areas such as health and medicine or
education and the arts. Based on unifying the mind with the body and soul to allow for greater
mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing, the values of yoga form a major part of the
community’s ethos. Yoga consists of a series of poses, meditation, controlled breathing, word
chanting and other techniques designed to help individuals build self-realization, ease any
suffering they may be experiencing and allow for a state of liberation. It is practised by the young
and old without discriminating against gender, class or religion and has also become popular in
other parts of the world. Traditionally, yoga was transmitted using the Guru-Shishya model
(master-pupil) with yoga gurus as the main custodians of associated knowledge and skills.
Nowadays, yoga ashrams or hermitages provide enthusiasts with additional opportunities to
learn about the traditional practice, as well as schools, universities, community centres and
social media. Ancient manuscripts and scriptures are also used in the teaching and practice of
yoga, and a vast range of modern literature on the subject available.