International Day of Yoga

International Yoga Day History

International Yoga Day is a yearly celebration aimed at raising awareness of the many benefits yoga offers to overall well-being, mental health, and physical fitness. Yoga is an ancient practice originating from India, incorporating physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines. This global event encourages people from all walks of life to come together in various activities while promoting the physical and mental health benefits of practicing yoga regularly.

The inception of International Yoga Day dates back to September 27, 2014, when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed to designate a day for practicing and promoting yoga worldwide.Yoga has gained immense popularity in Australia, catering to the physical and mental well-being of the diverse population. International Yoga Day provides a platform for Australians to understand the importance of yoga, learn new techniques, and work towards a healthier lifestyle.

In Australia, International Yoga Day is celebrated with myriad events and activities suited for all age groups and fitness levels. Yoga schools, studios, parks, and beaches teem with people stretching, breathing, and exploring different yoga styles. Wellness events, yoga retreats, workshops, and free classes are held across major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. Special sunrise sessions and group meditations are also an integral part of the celebrations. International Yoga Day is observed annually on June 21st, enabling individuals to participate and benefit from this global movement towards healthier living.

International Day of Yoga facts

• According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest yoga lesson was with over 100,000 participants at India's district of Kota on June 21st, 2018.
• The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit language. The word means to join or unite, referring to the union of body and mind.
• Australia has its own yoga journal, the Australian Yoga Journal, published since 2012. It is a leading source of yoga and wellbeing knowledge, including articles, local events, and workshops by yoga experts.
• There are numerous yoga schools in Australia offering yoga teacher training courses, ranging from 200-hour to advanced courses. Some well-known yoga teacher training schools in Australia include Power Living Australia Yoga, Australian Yoga Academy, and Byron Yoga Centre.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day of Yoga

Top things to do in Australia for International Day of Yoga

• Stretch at home. Stretching will help do yoga and will also help you relax and work out muscle stiffness from daily activities and routines.
• Do yoga! International Yoga Day is a great time to pick up this pastime and perhaps get a discount, if not, check Groupon for some more affordable offers to try yoga.
• Watch a documentary to learn more about to history of yoga in Australia. Here are our top picks:
  1. Conscious Living: Yoga and Meditation in Australia (2019) - This documentary offers a brief overview of the yoga scene in Australia, following yoga practitioners and teachers as they share their journey and experiences.
  2. Balance and Harmony: Yoga in Australia (2018) - This documentary by Ivan Knezevic highlights the power of yoga in promoting balance, harmony, and unity in the Australian community.
  3. Surfing the Healing Wave (2014) - This Australian documentary follows the journey of a man who finds physical and emotional healing through yoga and surfing.
• Sydney's famous Bondi Beach has been known to host yoga sessions on International Yoga Day, allowing participants to enjoy yoga with a stunning view.