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.
Today it is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity. Recognizing its universal appeal, on 11 December 2014, the United Nations proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga. The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.
The theme for the 2017 celebration, organized by the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, is ‘Yoga for Health.’ The theme highlights the fact that yoga can contribute in a holistic way to achieving an equilibrium between mind and body. The organizers believe that this approach to health and wellbeing can make a direct and useful contribution to humankind’s quest to achieve sustainable development and move towards lifestyles that are in harmony with nature.
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, in which he said: “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. 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 notes “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.
But yoga is more than a physical activity. In the words of one of its most famous practitioners, the late B. K. S. Iyengar, “Yoga cultivates the ways of maintaining a balanced attitude in day-to-day life and endows skill in the performance of one’s actions.”
There are many events celebrating International Yoga day across Queensland. YOGA DAY FESTIVAL BRISBANE is a community conscious event featuring fun and flowing yoga asana classes, deep relaxation, yoga breathing, exciting kid’s games and activities, live music and kirtan (yoga chant), yoga wisdom talks and deep peace meditation. It has a great line-up of talented yogis and artists featuring everything yoga and exciting market stalls. This program is hosted by Australian School of Meditation and Yoga, a non-profit organization with centres in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. The programmes of the ASMY are simple and enjoyable and can benefit everybody regardless of age or current physical condition. Our goal is to guide you to a more balanced lifestyle with an increased sense of wellbeing and vitality as your body grows stronger and more flexible, your mind calm—and bring a greater sense of ‘sacredness’ into daily life. The event is on 24th June 2018 between 9.30am-3.30pm at Forgan Smith Front Lawns, University of Queensland, St. Lucia Brisbane QLD 4072.