Yoga represents harmony between the physical and mental aspects, discipline in thought and behaviour, and harmony between the individual and society. The essence of yoga is unity and integration. In fact, yoga is much more than a physical exercise.
Yoga is a practice designed to unify the body and mind, thoughts and actions, control and fulfilment, while also fostering harmony between humans and nature and promoting both physical and mental well-being. As we celebrate International Yoga Day together, it is an opportunity to reaffirm harmony within society, compassion, and peaceful coexistence, while continuing to inspire yoga’s spirit of unity among people, solidarity, and friendship between nations.
Yoga can also help people address climate change by transforming their lifestyle and awareness. Since yoga can promote complete physical and mental health and well-being, it is important to spread awareness of its benefits for global health. Yoga enables anyone, regardless of wealth or status, to achieve harmony between mind and body, and it is useful for preventing diseases, improving health levels, and managing lifestyle-related illnesses. Therefore, the purpose is to introduce yoga and its practice not only for individuals but also for the wider public, so as to achieve comprehensive health for society as a whole.
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. The resolution noted 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.
This year marks the 12th International Day of Yoga with the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, which emphasizes the importance of Yoga for all ages. By combining gentle movement, stretching, breathing exercises, and mindfulness, yoga can help improve balance, flexibility, strength, and mobility, while also supporting mental well-being and stress management. Yoga offers an accessible way for many older adults to maintain their physical and emotional health. These benefits support several goals of the WHO Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), including promoting independence, reducing fall risk, enhancing quality of life, and encouraging person-centred approaches to health and well-being.
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