International Yoga Day: When it was first celebrated, how it was born and the two Guinness world records
Yoga, a tradition originating from India over 5,000 years ago, is a practice that combines physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines to achieve a harmonious balance between the body and mind. The word «yoga» is derived from the Sanskrit term meaning «to join» or «to unite,» symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.
First International Yoga Day
Today, yoga is practiced worldwide in various forms and continues to gain popularity. Recognizing its universal appeal, the United Nations declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on December 11, 2014, by resolution 69/131. This initiative was spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who emphasized yoga’s benefits for harmony and peace. The first International Day of Yoga was celebrated on June 21, 2015, with the theme «Yoga for Harmony and Peace,» featuring an event in New Delhi that set two Guinness World Records: one for the largest yoga session with 35,985 participants and another for the most nationalities (84) in a single session.
Raising Awareness of Yoga's Benefits
The International Day of Yoga aims to highlight the numerous benefits of practicing yoga. The resolution to establish this day was proposed by India and endorsed by 175 member states, a testament to its global appeal. Prime Minister Modi, in his address at the 69th session of the General Assembly, described yoga as «an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition,» emphasizing its role in uniting mind and body, thought and action. He highlighted yoga’s holistic approach, which is valuable for health and well-being, and its capacity to foster a sense of oneness with oneself, the world, and nature.
