2017-06-21 Wed

We all know Patanjali is the pioneer of Yoga Shaastra. But have you ever wondered how and why he thought of writing a book on it?
It is believed that Lord Shiva had the highest understanding of human nature. So to pass on the tradition he shared his knowledge of the yoga shastras with the Sapta Rishis (the seven sages) many thousands of years ago.

When Maharishi Patanjali came, he realized that yoga was getting too diversified and complex for everyone to understand. So, he thought of assimilating it into one book or sutra. He wrote it as he understood humanity, not as people understood it. In his works, he explained the total mechanism of the human body, mind, and consciousness.

Today yoga is practiced worldwide. It is not a religion but it is the way of living healthy and peace of mind!

In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a suggestion to the United Nations to celebrate June 21st as the International Yoga Day as it is the summer solstice; the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Modi said "Yoga is an invaluable gift of India's ancient tradition. This tradition is 5000 years old. It embodies the unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; 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 your soul, the world, and nature. By changing our lifestyle and creating consciousness, it can help in well-being. Let us work towards adopting an International Yoga Day."

India issued various stamps to celebrate Yoga Day.

This year UN Postal Administration (UNPA) is issuing a set of stamps showing 10 yoga asanas (poses) to commemorate the International Day of Yoga on June 21 in New York. The 10 stamps of $ 1.15 denomination each depict a different yoga pose next to a large ‘Om’ in Devanagri script.

So let us unite together and feel proud about the international recognition of Yoga to our Motherland India!