Origins of International Day of Yoga
Founder of The Art of Living, His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, shared a stage and gave a call to the UN to declare 21 June as World Yoga Day.
“There is World Toilet Day, but no World Yoga Day. We will write to the UN to recognise 21 June as World Yoga Day,” Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said speaking at the International Yoga Summit held at The Art of Living International Centre in 2011. He signed the petition at the valedictory function of the summit. A delegation from the Yoga Portuguese Confederation participated in the summit and sought the support of yoga gurus.
The United Nations proclaimed this day in 2014, recognising the universal appeal of yoga, a practice originating from ancient India that has benefited millions across the globe.
The International Day of Yoga is a global event that is observed on 21 June, the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. It aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practising yoga and celebrates the physical, mental and spiritual benefits it brings to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Benefits of Yoga
- Helps in releasing toxins from the body
- Improves flexibility and strength of muscles
- Corrects posture and alignment of the body
- Regulates the digestive, endocrine, and circulatory systems
- Strengthens and revitalises internal organs, leading to a healthy and youthful body
- Helps with weight loss
- Relieves asthma, diabetes, heart problems, and many chronic diseases
- Reduces levels of stress and body-wide inflammation, contributing to healthier hearts and balanced blood pressure
- Eases depression and anxiety levels and improves sleep
- Brings clarity to the mind and supports overall mental and emotional wellbeing
Making Yoga Accessible to Schools, Workplaces & Diverse Communities
The Art of Living Foundation NZ are leading providers for International Day of Yoga events annually planned across Aotearoa New Zealand. We work in collaboration and partnership with the Indian Association of New Zealand, the High Commission of India and Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, amongst many other community organisations and workplaces across the country.
We also work closely with Primary, Secondary and Tertiary providers to empower educators and students with the proven practices of breathwork and yoga.
We invite you to participate in our annual events and experience the innumerable benefits of this ancient, science-backed practice!
If you would like to book a free breathwork and yoga session with one of our expert Trainers, please complete the form below. These sessions can be tailored to suit your School, Workplace or Community Group/Organisation.
Join an event near you
Our classes and sessions are led by our trained and experienced yoga instructors. It is important to keep in mind that anyone can participate in the free sessions. The only qualification is to have an open mind and a willingness to relax and harmonise the body and mind.
If anyone has not done yoga regularly then this is a good chance to familiarise yourself with the benefits of doing yoga in a gentle and safe environment.
| Program Date | Program Name | Course Info | Register |
|---|
Attend a course
Take a journey with us and explore the depths of yoga through our signature “Sri Sri Yoga” courses - 2 hours each day over 5 days: