International Day of Yoga at 10: India’s Gift of Wellness to the World
- Ambassador of India to ROK Amit Kumar
This year, as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the International Day of Yoga (IDoY), we are reminded of how Yoga has truly become a global phenomenon. What began as a spiritual discipline in ancient India more than 3000 years ago - later codified by sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras around 200 B.C. - has today evolved into a holistic way of life practiced all around the world. Yoga has transcended borders, cultures and generations establishing itself as a universally accepted practice to nurture physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
The term Yoga originates from the Sanskrit word “Yuj” which means to “unite or integrate.” Yoga is a holistic approach to health and well-being - one that transcends the physical and connects the body with the mind and makes it whole. It embodies the harmony of mind and body, the balance of thought and action, and the unity of restraint and fulfillment. It cultivates awareness, mindfulness, and a deeper connection with oneself, the world and nature around us.
Yoga is not just a physical exercise; it is a holistic approach to well-being. It encompasses various practices, including asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation. These aspects work together to enhance physical health, cultivate mental clarity, and foster emotional resilience. In a world that often feels fast-paced and at times chaotic, yoga offers us a sanctuary—a space where we can reconnect with ourselves and find inner peace.
Recognizing its transformative power and universality, the United Nations in 2014 at India’s initiative unanimously passed a resolution to declare 21 June as the International Day of Yoga. Subsequently, in 2016, Yoga was included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, further affirming its value as a shared heritage for humanity.
As one of India’s most popular cultural exports, Yoga continues to attract millions all around the world. Korea is no exception to this phenomenon. This is evident from the many Yoga studios and practitioners across the length and breadth of Korea. Many Koreans, especially the younger generation, have embraced Yoga not just as a fitness routine but as a lifestyle choice to nurture the mind, body and soul. Part of Yoga’s appeal is that it can be adapted to suit individual needs and lifestyles. Whether through a gentle stretching, or a more rigorous session, or simply taking a moment to breathe deeply and reflect, there are countless ways to incorporate yoga into our daily routine.
This embrace is perhaps most visibly on display during the IDoY celebrations. Here in Korea, the sight of numerous yoga enthusiasts taking part in our annual IDoY events is heartwarming. During my time here, I have had the opportunity to meet several Koreans friends, who are ardent practitioners of yoga. Many of them have travelled to India multiple times to explore its roots. Listening to their love for yoga and their deep affection for Indian culture has been truly inspiring.
The importance of Yoga is well recognized in tackling the rise of lifestyle diseases and stress globally. Yoga today is, therefore, a strong aspect of preventive health care frameworks in several countries around the world. Alongside Yoga, India’s traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda are additionally gaining acceptance, complementing modern healthcare systems by focusing on holistic well-being. This year’s theme for IDoY, “Yoga for One Earth One Health” underscores this growing relevance.
As we reflect on this decade-long journey of the IDoY, we are reminded that Yoga is not just a practice, but a worldwide movement - a powerful symbol of global harmony, shared humanity, and the timeless relevance of ancient wisdom in a modern world.
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