Yoga, which originated in India, is an ancient practice that includes mental, physical, and spiritual aspects. The Sanskrit word "yoga" means "union of body and consciousness," highlighting the harmony between the two. International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21. International Day of Yoga 2024 marks the 10th anniversary of the global event. The theme for International Day of Yoga 2024 is 'Yoga for Self and Society,' focusing on the health and well-being of both individuals and their positive impact on society. In this article, let us take a look at the various themes assigned to the International Day of Yoga over the past years.

In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea of Yoga Day to the UN General Assembly. His proposal was widely supported, and eventually, June 21 was declared International Yoga Day. Since then, every year on this date, International Day of Yoga is celebrated worldwide with a unique theme. Let's look at the themes from previous years and how they have impacted people.

International Day of Yoga 2024 Theme: Yoga for Self and Society

This year marks the 10th International Day of Yoga with the theme “Yoga for Self and Society.” The theme emphasises on how Yoga is beneficial not only for an individual but also for the entire society's well-being and growth.

International Day of Yoga 2023 Theme: Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

The theme for International Day of Yoga 2023, 'Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,' promoted global harmony, unity, and universal wellbeing. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is an ancient Indian philosophy that views the entire world as one large family and this aligns with yoga, as the word 'yuj' means union, emphasising unity.

International Day of Yoga 2022 Theme: Yoga for Humanity

In 2022, following the pandemic, the theme 'Yoga for Humanity' was chosen to highlight how yoga helped alleviate human suffering. Special programmes were designed for people with disabilities, the transgender community, women, and children to support and promote wellbeing.

International Day of Yoga 2021 Theme: Yoga for Wellness

Amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, the theme for 2021 was 'Yoga for Wellness,' focused on incorporating yoga into daily life for better mental and physical health. Though the celebrations were held virtually, the goal was to promote overall wellbeing during a time of widespread suffering.

International Day of Yoga 2020 Theme: Yoga at Home and Yoga with Family

The 2020 International Day of Yoga theme was 'Yoga at Home and Yoga with Family.' It highlighted the importance of practising yoga with family while maintaining social distance amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Held virtually, millions of people in India and around the world participated in the event.

Check Themes of International Day of Yoga From 2015 to 2024:

Yoga includes a wide range of contemplative and self-disciplinary practises. It is incredibly beneficial to our overall health. So, this International Yoga Day, let’s promise to practise yoga every day and contribute to our well-being.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 20, 2024 09:57 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).