India celebrates International Yoga Day on the most probable date of summer solstice. By now the entire world knows that yoga is much more than stretching and kneeling. Its amazing benefits for body and mind are known to the modern world. Originated in India and other parts of Asia, Yoga is a practice that improves physical, spiritual, and mental health. 21st June marks the celebration of World Yoga Day.

The concept was first coined by the Indian Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi in 2014 at his UN Address. And we are sure that the date was not just suggested randomly. 21st June is the longest day of the year for the Northern Hemispere and hence it is of special significance for everyone. For the Southern Hemisphere, it is the shortest day of the year and marks the onset of winter season. In short, it is about a major transition and shift. That is what exactly Yoga can do for our mind, body, and spirit. In traditional Indian Calendars, the day of the summer solstice marks the shift of the Sun towards south. The second full moon that happens after the first day of summer or 21st June is celebrated as Guru Purnima in India. Several countries and spiritual gurus across the world have supported the initiative of Yoga day. The day is of significance in India as the government schools and other institutues and office celebrate it by practising yoga. Meditation is also an important part of Yoga.

We do not recommend our readers to blindly follow Yoga exercises. It is always good to consult someone who holds good knowledge of yoga and meditation. Also, if you are suffering from any physical disability or issue, consult an expert before performin any major yoga exercise. However, simple practises like meditation and tratak are considered harmless. Yet it would always be good to gain good knowledge of the Yoga exercise. You can take help of some authentic literature and yoga teachers.

The first ever International Yoga Day was observed in 2015 and since then it is being practised in India. So as the world witnesses its longest day of the year and celebrates the coming of summer, India and many countries also observe yoga day. However, the longest day of the year is not necessarily 21st June every year. Though it is mostly the same date, many years have seen the longest day on 22nd or 23rd June.