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On September 27, 2014, while addressing the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly, our honorable Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, proposed that the world community adopt an International Day for Yoga. In his words, yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. It embodies the unity of mind and body.

It is not just an exercise but a holistic approach to our health and well-being. This resolution was endorsed by 175 member states, and June 21 was declared International Yoga Day.

What is Yoga?

Yoga is a mental, physical, and spiritual practice that originated in India. It is an ancient practice. The word "yoga" means "unity," which symbolizes the unity of mind and body. It works on all levels of the body, including the mind, body, energy, and emotions. It is an easy and safe way to stay fit and healthy for life.

It just needs to be practiced regularly with the right body movement and breathing. It regularizes the functioning of all the organs in the body and prevents our body from getting disturbed due to some unhealthy situation. This is the message that International Yoga Day wants to spread among people. Ideally practicing yoga regularly in the morning provides outer and inner relief.

It keeps away countless ailments at both physical and mental levels. Practicing the various Asanas strengthens the body and mind creating a feeling of well-being. It sharpens the mind, improves brainpower, and helps in a high level of concentration. The feeling of well-being enhances social well-being. Improved concentration levels create inner peace in the mind. Yoga is a philosophy that develops self-discipline and self-awareness through regular practice.

Two Basic Pose of Yoga:

Balasana (The Child's Pose)

Kneel and bring your chest down onto your thighs and your forehead to the floor. Your arms should be stretched by your sides, with your hands next to your feet. Slowly breathe in through your nose and notice the back of the chest expanding and the ribs widening. As you exhale, try to sink the buttocks back down toward the heels, feeling the spine gently bend over the thighs. Stay here for 5 to 10 breaths, or as long as feels good for you.

Benefits:

Ø Releases tension in the back, shoulders, and chest

Ø Helps ease stress and anxiety

Ø Flexes the internal organs and keeps them flexible

Ø Regulates circulation in the body

Ø Cools the mind and body

Bidalasana (The Cat Pose)

Move into a tabletop pose with the wrists directly below the shoulders and knees below the hips. Push your palms into the mat to make sure your shoulder blades are broad.

While inhaling, look forward and reach the tailbone toward the sky. While exhaling, tuck the chin to the chest and reach the tailbone to the floor. Continue through this movement.

Allow the breath to lead and feel the entire spine being massaged. Try to keep the creases of the elbows facing each other to protect the joint from hyperextension.

Benefits:

Ø Develops posture and balance

Ø Strengthens the spine

Ø Stretches the hips, abdomen, and back

Ø Increases body synchronization

Ø Massages organs like the stomach, kidneys, and adrenal glands