International Day of Yoga celebrated at UN Headquarters

(Photo: Yin Miao)

New York (People’s Daily) - The 2018 celebration for the International Day of Yoga, with ‘Yoga for Peace’ as its theme, was organized by the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations at the North Lawn of the UN Headquarters in New York on Wednesday.

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.

In modern times, it is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity.

The draft resolution establishing the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India and endorsed by a record 175-member states in 2014. The proposal was first introduced by Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi in his speech during the opening of the 69th session of the UN General Assembly.

“Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition,” Modi said. “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 states “the importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health.”

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 various cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes.

The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.

(Photo: Yin Miao)