Everything You Need to Know About International Yoga Day 2023

As the number of health problems in today's time is only increasing, Yoga has become all the more important. International Yoga Day is observed every year on June 21st to promote the importance of Yoga. Read on to know more about International Yoga Day 2023, its theme, significance, and more. 

International Yoga Day 2023

The word ‘Yoga’ has its roots in the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’ which translates to unite. It is a 5000-year-old practise that aims at building harmony of body and mind. To lay importance on this age-old practise, the 21st June of the year is celebrated all over the world as International Yoga Day. Broadly speaking, Yoga is classified into four different categories: Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, Kriya Yoga, and Jnana Yoga. All of these different forms of Yoga aim at promoting the well-being of an individual. 

Tracing the History of International Yoga Day

Since time immemorial, Yoga has been a part of Indian traditions. However, its importance became widely known when the honourable Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi delivered a speech on its significance at the United Nations General Assembly. It was back in 2014 when he delivered this speech and endorsed a proposal for its celebration. Finally, 177 member states agreed to this and since then 21st June has been celebrated as International Yoga Day. It was on 21st June 2015, when the first International Yoga Day was celebrated all over the world. 

International Yoga Day 2023 Theme

This year, it will be the 9th edition of International Yoga Day. The theme of International Yoga Day 2023 is “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” which translates to “One Earth, One Family, One Future”. International Yoga Day has been chosen so that it coincides with Summer Solstice when the sun is at its highest position in the sky and the longest daylight exists. Ever since the day started being observed as International Yoga Day, people from different walks of life have come forward and participated in different activities related to Yoga.

International Yoga Day 2023 will be the first time when the prime minister of India, Narendra Modi will lead the day at the UN headquarters. A yoga session will be conducted at this location to make this day more valuable. 

Importance of Yoga

There is no denying that yoga is one of the best practises to stay fit and healthy. So, listed below are some of the benefits of yoga:

• The different types of Yoga asanas involve a number of bodily movements that leads to overall flexibility and overall well-being. This eventually leads to improved body strength, immune system, and overall well-being. 

• There are a number of meditative practices involved in yoga that help in stress reduction. Regular practise of yoga is helpful in thus maintaining overall anxiety levels as well as is helpful in the treatment of depression. 

• With a regular practise of yoga, the sleep cycle is also improved. This is due to the fact that the different Yoga asanas help in the relaxation of body and mind. Moreover, a daily session of yoga also helps in reducing the risk of heart-related diseases, and lifestyle-related health problems. 
• Through yoga, you can also build a stronger connection with your inner self, thus encouraging self-reflection and introspection. 

Take Away

Thus, this International Yoga Day, practise yoga and spread awareness about its importance. Also, buy health insurance plans to safeguard yourself against health emergencies.

Also read: Can a 75-Year-Old Get Health Insurance?