During the winter of 2014, the United Nations named June 21 “International Day of Yoga”. This day coincides with the summer solstice and it’s primary aim is to raise awareness about the many benefits of practicing yoga.

Yoga is a tradition of philosophies and knowledge that dates back several thousand years (more info). Yoga consists of practices to unite the mind, body, and spirit and helps us to live in alignment with The Universe. Yoga is more than a workout — it combines movement, meditation, self-discipline, and breathing practices to reconnect us with our whole selves.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF YOGA?

Encourages Healthy Living • Improved Posture • Improved Mental Stamina • Increased Strength & Flexibility • Long & Lean Muscles • Relieves Joint Pain • Increased Bone Density • Improved Digestion • Cultivates Self-Awareness • Improves Mood • Calms Mind • Relieves Tension & Stress • Increases Blood Flow • Improved Blood Pressure • Focus & Mental Concentration • Improves Balance • Regulation of Nervous System • Healing of Mind, Body, & Spirit

There are many different styles of yoga and also many teachers. Finding your right style of yoga is much like finding the perfect pair of shoes — you may have to try on a few styles before you find the one that fits you. Once you find your yoga, practice and you’ll notice the calm + ease you feel after class begins to carry over into your life. As we connect with our inner selves, our outer self begins to change. Yoga teaches the art of living a happy + healthy life!

“True yoga is not about the shape of your body, but the shape of your life. Yoga is not to be performed; yoga is to be lived. Yoga doesn’t care about what you have been; yoga cares about the person you are becoming. Yoga is designed for a vast and profound purpose, and for it to be truly called yoga, its essence must be embodied.”— Aadil Palkhivala

For International Day of Yoga, I invite you to join in this amazing practice. Some ideas to celebrate:

  • Local City Celebration – A Google search will yield results about what free celebrations are taking place in your city
  • Yoga Studios – Typically, yoga studios will have free classes for new students or community events to celebrate
  • YouTube or Streaming Services – While celebrating in a community is preferred, you can also bring yoga into your day via video classes.

If you want more info about yoga + how to start your own yoga practice, download this free eBook!