International day of yoga (IDY), Observed annually on June 21, chosen as it’s the summer solstice—the longest day in the Northern Hemisphere—symbolizing harmony between humanity and nature. Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago, designed to bring harmony between body, mind, and spirit. The word “yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root “yuj”, which means “to unite” — symbolizing the union of individual consciousness with universal consciousness.
Yoga is much more than physical exercise; it is a holistic lifestyle. It encompasses:
- Asanas (postures) – for physical strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Pranayama (breathing techniques) – for calming the nervous system and enhancing focus.
- Dhyana (meditation) – for inner peace and emotional stability.
- Yamas and Niyamas – ethical principles guiding a disciplined, mindful, and compassionate life.
Today, yoga is practiced across the globe by people of all ages and cultures. It is embraced not only for its therapeutic effects but also for promoting mindfulness, sustainable living, and inner transformation.
Theme 2025: “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”
- Marks the 11th annual International Yoga Day
- Highlights the interconnectedness of individual well-being and planetary health, echoing the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“the world is one family”)
- Aligns with India’s G20 vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future” and the UN’s sustainable development goals
This year marked the culmination of a decade of yoga celebration and the Naval family celebrated 11th IDY 25 with enthusiasm at all Naval stations keeping in mind the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”. As part of IDY celebrations, a Common Yoga Protocol session were conducted at all naval bases and ships at sea and in harbour including at foreign ports. Approximately 50,000 Naval personnel, defence civilians and their family members enthusiastically participated in the yoga programmes. Trainees of friendly foreign navies also participated in the activities with zeal.
Indian Naval warships mission deployed across IOR conducted Yoga session at sea and in foreign ports – Mauritius, Oman, Djibouti, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Indian Navy ships spread the message and spirit of Yoga across the oceans. The crew of soon to be inducted Stealth Frigate Tamal also conducted Yoga sessions in Kaliningrad, Russia
Why It Matters Today
- Holistic wellness: Encourages blending physical fitness with mental and emotional resilience.
- Environmental mindfulness: Reinforces conscious living in face of global challenges like climate change.
- Global unity: Strengthens international solidarity by celebrating a practice rooted in ancient Indian tradition but embraced worldwide.
