The Day of Days

Today, June 21, is a remarkable day that combines International Yoga Day, World Music Day, and the Summer Solstice, making it the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Yoga originated in ancient India over 5,000 years ago, emerging as a comprehensive practice encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines. The term “yoga” derives from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” meaning to unite or integrate, symbolising the union of body, mind, and spirit. Initially developed by the Indus-Sarasvati civilisation, yoga was later systematised by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras around the 2nd century BCE.

The benefits of yoga are extensive and well-documented. Physically, yoga enhances flexibility, strength, and balance, reduces chronic pain, and improves cardiovascular health. Mentally, it alleviates stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting overall mental clarity and emotional stability. 

Spiritually, yoga fosters self-awareness, inner peace, and a deeper connection with oneself and the universe. By integrating physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, yoga offers a holistic approach to health and well-being, appealing to diverse practitioners worldwide.

In December 2014, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution with overwhelming support, designating June 21st as International Yoga Day to acknowledge yoga’s universal appeal.

The theme for the 2024 International Day of Yoga is “Yoga for Self and Society,” highlighting the dual benefits of yoga practice: enhancing personal well-being and contributing to societal improvement.

On the other hand, the primary purpose of World Music Day is to promote the universal language of music and its power to bring people of all ages, nationalities and cultures together.

Studies have demonstrated that music offers both physical and psychological benefits, including reduced anxiety and stress, elevated mood, improved concentration, and a stronger immune system.

In recent years, music has increasingly become a part of Yoga, making the practice more accessible. Yoga chants and mantras are used to quiet the mind during meditation, providing an additional rhythm to focus on beyond just your breath. By following the rhythm and your breathing, you can more easily enter a meditative state during your practice. This rhythm offers a focal point to enhance your meditation.

On this day, the tilt of the North Pole towards the Sun is at its maximum during the solstice, resulting in more direct sunlight on the Earth’s surface north of the equator and making it the longest day of the year.

The combination of yoga and music offers a powerful way to extend life. Research indicates that their combined effects can enhance emotional well-being, alleviate chronic ailments, and promote overall health.

So relish this day for your overall health, well-being, and longevity.

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–Kaushal Kishore