Each year on June 21, the world comes together to celebrate International Yoga Day. This day has been recognised by the United Nations General Assembly since 2014, and it serves as a global initiative to create awareness about the many benefits that Yoga can bring to our lives and communities.
International Yoga Day was established by the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, who highlighted the rich tradition of Yoga and its mind-body transformative potential. The date coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, a symbol of enlightenment, rejuvenation and inner growth. And on our side of the world, in the Southern Hemisphere, it marks the shortest day of the year and the Winter Solstice. This represents a time of introspection and rebirth. If you’ve practised Yoga, you know Yoga embodies all these themes and more.
In 2023, the theme of International Yoga Day is “Humanity.”
Yoga, at its core, signifies ‘unity’ and ‘connection’. It’s a practice that not only creates inner peace and helps us discover our authentic selves, it also cultivates collective harmony amongst humans. So really, humanity is a perfect theme for 2023!
But why Yoga?
It’s quite amazing that Yoga has been given an international Day, recognised by the United Nations! This is because Yoga is more than a physical activity, it is a practice that combines body postures (the Asanas), breathing exercises (Pranayama) and meditation.
It’s a practice for physical and mental well-being.
On a physical level, practising Yoga can improve flexibility, increase muscle strength, enhance respiratory function and promote better posture. These are all amazing on paper, but the most important aspect of these benefits is that they potentially help to prevent many diseases and injuries.
On a mental level, Yoga serves as a potent tool for stress management (needed more than ever right now!). Yoga helps the body go from the Sympathetic Nervous System to the Parasympathetic Nervous System and this is where the body and mind can function optimally (don’t get us wrong we need the Sympathetic Nervous System, but not when we are dealing with a busy inbox).
What do we do on International Yoga Day?
It’s the perfect day to practice Yoga! No matter what your preferred style is, why not roll out your mat, stretch, bend and flow to celebrate? Or sit and meditate, even if it’s just taking time for 5 deep belly breaths. All this is Yoga!
To celebrate International Yoga Day 2023, for a limited time we’re offering a special 2-week FREE access to our MerryBody app. You’ll have full access to our entire library of Yoga, Pilates and Meditation Classes. Irrespective of your age, fitness level, or experience in Yoga, we invite you to embrace the practice of Yoga.
At MerryBody, our approach to fitness is all about celebrating and strengthening your body, while also nurturing your mind. Forget the focus on your ‘imperfections’ – it’s time for a fresh perspective. The MerryBody Method will help you embrace your body and create a healthy relationship with exercise.
We’re here to change your narrative of fitness. To us, the goal is not about looking good — it’s about feeling fantastic and loving life! Experience a workout that helps you connect to your body, cultivates self-acceptance and promotes mental well-being.
Alright, what are you waiting for? Celebrate International Yoga Day 2023 and sign up for your 2 week FREE access to MerryBody over here!
Always merrymaking,
Emma + Carla
Ps. if you really want to deepen your Yoga Practice why not think about signing up for your Yoga Teacher Training?