8 hours ago
Why is yoga day celebrated on June 21? The science behind the date
International Yoga Day is celebrated annually on June 21, a date chosen for its unique scientific, cultural, and mythological significance. This day, also known as the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, is the longest day of the year, symbolising light, awareness, and vitality. The selection of June 21 for Yoga Day was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address to the United Nations General Assembly in September 2014, and the proposal received unprecedented global support, with 177 countries co-sponsoring the resolution that the UN adopted unanimously in December June 21 marks the summer solstice, when the Earth's axial tilt is most inclined toward the sun, resulting in the longest period of daylight in the Northern Hemisphere. This natural phenomenon has been celebrated in many cultures worldwide as a time of renewal and energy. For yoga, which emphasises harmony between body, mind, and nature, the solstice represents a powerful symbol of unity and a yogic and mythological perspective, June 21 holds special importance. According to Indian tradition and yogic lore, this day marks the transition known as Dakshinayana, when the sun begins its southward journey.
It is believed to be the day when Lord Shiva, revered as Adiyogi or the first yogi, began imparting yogic wisdom to his disciples. Legend has it that seven seekers performed intense sadhana (spiritual practice) for 84 years until Shiva acknowledged their dedication on the summer solstice and transformed into Adi Guru, the first teacher of connection imbues June 21 with spiritual significance, linking the ancient origins of yoga to the rhythms of International Day of Yoga aims to promote the holistic benefits of yoga worldwide, encompassing physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual harmony. Yoga, rooted in ancient Indian philosophy and practices such as asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation, fosters a balance between mind and day encourages people globally to adopt yoga as a lifestyle for improved health and a deeper connection with the its first celebration in 2015, International Yoga Day has grown into a global event with millions participating in yoga sessions across countries. The day not only honours the ancient Indian tradition but also promotes a universal message of peace, wellness, and choice of June 21 as the date underscores the symbolic harmony between nature's cycles and human well-being, making it an ideal day to celebrate yoga's timeless summary, Yoga Day is celebrated on June 21 because it coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolising light and date also holds deep yogic and mythological significance as the day when the first yogi, Lord Shiva, began teaching United Nations' adoption of this date reflects a global recognition of yoga's benefits and its role in promoting holistic health and harmony between humanity and Watch
