Importance of Yoga
Life in today’s world is filled with stress, irrespective of a person’s age, sex, and class. Each one is suffering from some or the other physical or mental disturbances. To cater to this and bring a balance to a messy life, ancient Indian culture has given the boon of Yoga to the world. Yoga is the word derived from the Sanskrit root “yug”, which means “to join” or “to unite”. As per Yogic scriptures, the practice of Yoga leads to the union of individual consciousness with that of the Universal Consciousness, indicating a perfect harmony between the mind and body, Man & Nature.
Yoga has helped to develop discipline and balance in day-to-day life. It is one of the most trusted means to boost one's physical and mental well-being. It symbolizes the unity of body and mind; thoughts and action and brings harmony between human and nature. It was due to Honourable PM Narendra Modi’s relentless efforts that the United Nations General Assembly declared International Yoga Day on 21st June since 2015. Every year on 21st June since then is celebrated as International Yoga Day.
This year, the theme for Yoga Day is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” This year, the focus is on promoting global health and well-being through the practice of yoga, uniting people around the world in the pursuit of a healthier future. A regular practice of yoga helps to bring physical well-being in oneself, improves the power of concentration, allowing the individual to focus on his work and studies. It also gives you a fresh mind to face the challenges coming in day-to-day life.
Simple Yoga Techniques for Daily Practice
Even a few minutes of yoga every day can yield remarkable benefits. Here are some beginner-friendly techniques to try:
1. Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
- Benefits: Improves posture, strengthens thighs and knees, and increases body awareness.
- How to do: Stand straight, feet together, arms by your side. Inhale deeply and raise your hands overhead, stretching your body upward. Hold for a few breaths.
2. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
- Benefits: Strengthens the spine, stretches the chest and lungs, and relieves stress.
- How to do: Lie on your stomach, place palms near shoulders. Inhale and lift the chest, keeping elbows slightly bent. Look up and hold.
3. Vrikshasana (Tree Pose)
- Benefits: Improves balance, strengthens legs, and enhances concentration.
- How to do: Stand tall, place the sole of one foot on the opposite inner thigh. Bring hands into a prayer position. Focus on a point and breathe deeply.
4. Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
- Benefits: Calms the nervous system, purifies the lungs, and balances energy channels.
- How to do: Use your right thumb to close the right nostril, inhale through the left. Close the left nostril, exhale through the right. Repeat alternately.
5. Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
- Benefits: Deep relaxation, stress reduction, and integration of yoga practice.
- How to do: Lie flat on your back, arms at your sides, palms up. Close your eyes and focus on your breath. Relax each body part consciously.
Conclusion
Yoga is not just a workout—it’s a way of life. On this International Yoga Day, let's commit to making yoga a part of our daily routine. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, the journey of yoga offers endless benefits and inner peace. As the world celebrates this day, take a moment to breathe deeply, stretch your body, and reconnect with your inner self.
“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” – The Bhagavad Gita