International Yoga Day: UP CM Yogi Adityanath performs Yoga in Lucknow | Watch

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath performed various asanas during International Yoga Day celebrations 2024 on June 21. In the early morning of the 10th International Yoga Day, he reached Raj Bhawan and performed Yoga Asanas, along with state Governor Anandiben Patel and others. 

CM Yogi congratulated the people of Uttar Pradesh and welcomed them to the program. He said the whole world is celebrating International Yoga Day under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. "All of you are welcome to this program of the 10th International Yoga Day at Raj Bhawan. Yoga Day is being celebrated across the country today. I congratulate the people of the entire state on the program of 10th International Yoga Day. Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the whole world is celebrating International Yoga Day by joining together. Yoga shows humanity," he said.

Meanwhile, PM Modi will host an event near the shores of Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. He along with thousand others will perform Yoga at the site. Attendance is anticipated to exceed 3,000 to 4,000 participants. It is pertinent to note that the theme for International Yoga Day this year is "Yoga for Self and Society". The theme highlights the importance of yoga not only for one's own well-being but also for fostering a sense of harmony among communities and society. 

Yoga is beneficial for the body and soul. It is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word 'yoga' is derived from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolising the union of body and consciousness.Several Yoga events are being organised at various places in India and even outside the country ahead of International Yoga Day.

Besides, several youths demonstrated different Yoga 'asanas' (poses) under the guidance of Yoga Guru Ramdev at an event here in the national capital on Thursday, ahead of International Yoga Day. Ramdev said that Yoga existed for centuries and they were spreading it among the common people. He also praised PM Modi for proposing the International Day for Yoga at the United Nations and said that it generated awareness and respect for Yoga. 

Physical benefits of daily yoga practice:

Enhanced flexibility and strength

Daily yoga improves body flexibility and builds muscle strength. Regular stretching through various asanas increases the metabolism. The gained flexibility may also reduce the risk of injuries. Strength-building poses, such as plank and warrior poses, enhance muscle tone and endurance.

Posture and spinal health

In today's world when body alignment and posture have become a serious concern, Yoga has emerged as a remedy. Asanas such as the mountain pose and downward-facing dog correct poor posture and alleviate back pain by strengthening the spine and surrounding muscles. This focus on alignment prevents degenerative spinal conditions.

Boosted immunity

Regular yoga practice helps boost the immunity. The combination of physical movement, controlled breathing, and meditation reduces stress hormones and conditions the lungs and respiratory tract, stimulating the lymphatic system to eliminate toxins from the body.

Mental and emotional benefits:

Stress reduction

One of the most profound benefits of yoga, which is much needed in a fast-paced life, is its ability to reduce stress. The practice of mindfulness and deep breathing induces relaxation and lowers cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone. This helps in managing stress, anxiety, and depression effectively.

Concentration and mental clarity improvement

Yoga involves focusing on breath and movement, which enhances concentration and mental clarity. Practices like meditation and pranayama increase the supply of oxygenated blood to the brain, improving cognitive functions and memory.

Emotional stability

Yoga fosters emotional balance by promoting a sense of inner peace and tranquillity. Regular practice helps regulate mood swings and fosters a positive outlook on life. It encourages self-awareness and self-acceptance, which are crucial for emotional well-being.