International Day of Yoga

International Yoga Day, June 21, was declared as the International Day of Yoga by the United Nations General Assembly.

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his UN Address suggested the date to be June 21 as the International Day of Yoga as it is the longest day of the year (Summer Solstice) in the Northern Hemisphere and has special significance in many parts of the world, he went on to say:

"Yoga is an invaluable gift of India's ancient tradition. This tradition is 5000 years old. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfilment; 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 us deal with climate change. Let us work towards adopting an International Yoga Day."

—Narendra Modi, UN General Assembly

This first international day of Yoga was observed world over, about 35,985 people, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a large number of dignitaries from 84 nations, performed 21 Yoga asanas(postures) for 35 minutes at Rajpath in New Delhi. The day devoted to Yoga was observed by millions across the world. The event at Rajpath established two Guinness world records awarded to 'Ministry of Ayush' for the Largest Yoga Class having 35,985 people.

BBC1 Programme @ 2.20: YOGA: Bend it like Britain (21/6/15)

An interesting account of the various types of yoga practiced in the UK, have a look on iplayer if you missed it.

How did you celebrate your yoga this day?