International Yoga Day 2023: All you need to know about this day

New Delhi: Every year International Yoga Day is celebrated on June 21 worldwide. It serves as a platform to raise awareness about the numerous benefits of yoga and promote its holistic approach to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

The concept of International Yoga Day was introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 2014 address to the United Nations General Assembly. Since then, Yoga has gained huge popularity worldwide due to its ability to enhance flexibility, strength, balance, and overall fitness.
This year the theme of Yoga Day is ‘Yoga For Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ i.e. Yoga for the welfare of all in the form of ‘One World-One Family’. It emphasises the spirit of Yoga, which unites and takes everyone along. Like every time, this time too programs related to yoga will be organized in every corner of the country.

Yoga is not only beneficial for mental health problems but for overall well-being. Regular yoga practice reduces stress and improves symptoms of anxiety and depression. Following the pandemic, yoga has shown remarkable results in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. It helps with emotional management, mood improvement, and brain clarity and also highlights the connection between the mind and the body.

Significance
International Yoga Day is an annual event observed on June 21 around the world. It provides a platform for individuals from many cultures and communities to unite in their appreciation and practice of yoga. This day offers a chance to spread awareness of the mental, physical, and spiritual benefits of yoga through a range of programmes. These programmes include yoga classes, workshops, talks, and cultural performances.

Benefits of Yoga
Yoga is beneficial for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It boosts flexibility, strength, and balance. Asanas (postures) in yoga increase joint mobility, muscular tone, and general body strength. It also helps with posture and alignment. Yoga practice on a regular basis can help you sleep better. It encourages positive thinking, reduces stress, and promotes heightened self-awareness.

Here are five yoga asanas that you can practise at home to live a healthier and more pleasant life: