Yoga is an ancient Indian practice derived from the Sanskrit word "union" which means the unity of a person's body and mind (or consciousness); between man and nature.
Physically, yoga increases strength and flexibility of body parts, internal organs, improves nervous system function and blood circulation. Yoga breathing exercises help increase oxygen supply to cells and metabolism. Yoga meditation techniques promote inner peace and balance, enhancing coordination between mind (thought) and body (action), between consciousness and mindfulness. Yoga allows an individual to connect with his environment in a more subtle way and thus become a source of positive energy in the world.
Yoga is not only an integral part of the spiritual life of Indians but has also become one of the country's most successful cultural legacies, comparable to the famous Bollywood film industry. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, yoga has been elevated to a sophisticated diplomatic tool, contributing to enhancing India's cultural image on the international stage.
In 2014, it was Prime Minister Modi who proposed that the United Nations recognize International Yoga Day every year on June 21. This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” once again underscores the global vision of harmony and well-being, affirming the role of yoga in creating a healthier and more peaceful world.
In India, the birthplace of Yoga, tens of thousands of people came together to celebrate. Not only in big cities like New Delhi, where hundreds of people of all ages and backgrounds gathered at Lodhi Park, but the influence of Yoga also reached far and wide.
Outside India, large-scale yoga sessions are also taking place in many countries around the world, demonstrating the role of yoga as a cultural and spiritual bridge. In Malaysia, more than 1,000 people participated in an impressive yoga session at Batu Caves Temple - a famous tourist destination and the site of Hindu festivals.
Accordingly, in Vietnam, the country that co-sponsored the Resolution to establish International Yoga Day, the celebration atmosphere is also extremely bustling. A series of events promoting and performing Yoga protocols are being held at more than 40 locations across the provinces and cities. In Hanoi, Quan Ngua Sports Palace has become the center of a large-scale performance, attracting thousands of Yoga lovers, including officials, public figures, diplomats, and many members from the Vietnam Yoga Federation, Yoga clubs and individuals.
Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, sent a letter to Prime Minister of Vietnam, Mr. Pham Minh Chinh, expressing his deep appreciation for Vietnam’s support and active contributions in promoting Yoga over the past decade. He also expressed his gratitude for Vietnam’s acceptance and development of Yoga not only as a health practice but also as a precious common heritage of humanity. This cooperation continues to strengthen the strong friendship between the two countries, together promoting the good values of Yoga for a healthier and more harmonious world.
Yoga is not only an integral part of India’s spiritual life but has also become one of the most successful cultural legacies of India, on par with the Bollywood film industry. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Yoga has been elevated to a sophisticated diplomatic tool, contributing to enhancing the country’s cultural image in the international arena.
The 10th International Day of Yoga is not only an occasion to celebrate a decade of Yoga but also a reminder of its transformative power to bring inner peace and promote a harmonious and sustainable way of life for all humanity.
