By Diane Finlayson, M.A., C-IAYT, ERYT-500, Department Chair, Yoga Therapy, Ayurveda, and Narrative Health
In 2014 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the UN General Assembly and declared:
“Yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well-being. It is not about exercise but to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature. By changing our lifestyle and creating consciousness, it can help in wellbeing. Let us work towards adopting an International Yoga Day.”
In October of that year, a draft proposal was put in place to create “International Yoga Day” with the UN General Assembly’s approval. Since then, people all over the world have come together each year on June 21st to celebrate the power of Yoga to change lives.
This year, the Indian Embassy’s cultural diplomat, Dr. Moxraj, will host a program in Washington, D.C. on Sunday June 16 at 8:30 am followed by a vegetarian food festival at 10 am.
https://www.indianembassy.org/dcyogaday/
If you cannot attend this event check for what’s happening in your home community. Or better yet, you may want to organize your own event for International Yoga Day!
Maryland University of Integrative Health’s Masters of Science in Yoga Therapy is the first of its kind in the nation and prepares graduates with the leadership skills necessary to be successful in this emerging field. The program provides yoga professionals with a comprehensive foundation in the theoretical, scientific, and experiential training of yogic teachings and practice.