Hundreds of diplomats, UN employees, and visitors marked the International Day of Yoga at the United Nations with yoga poses, asanas, and breathing exercises. This year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” emphasizes the importance of physical and mental well-being as populations age globally. Secretary-General Anotnio Guterres highlighted that yoga promotes mindfulness, respect, and care for oneself, others, and the planet.
The celebration, usually observed on the Summer Solstice, was held earlier due to the UN’s weekend closure and the Juneteenth holiday. India’s Permanent Representative P Harish emphasized Prime Minister Modi’s vision of spreading yoga worldwide to foster healthy living and international cooperation. The event at the UN campus featured participants from various countries engaging in yoga practices, including the simple yet profound asana of ‘namaste.’
The International Day of Yoga was established by a 2014 UN resolution proposed by PM Modi and co-sponsored by 177 countries, marking a record in co-sponsorship. New York will host the “Solstice in Times Square: Mind Over Madness Yoga” event, highlighting how yoga can bring calmness to the city’s bustling pace.
