International Day of Yoga being celebrated across globe today

KATHMANDU: The 12th International Day of Yoga is being observed across Nepal and around the world today under the theme 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing'.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says that through a mix of gentle movements, stretching, breathing exercises and mindfulness, yoga can improve balance, flexibility, strength and mobility, while also supporting mental health and reducing stress. Health experts and international agencies highlight the role of yoga in supporting physical and mental well‑being at every stage of life.

Because it can be adapted to different fitness levels and health conditions, yoga offers an accessible way for many older adults to maintain physical and emotional well‑being. Those benefits align with the goals of the WHO Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), which include promoting independence, lowering the risk of falls, improving quality of life and supporting person‑centred approaches to health and well‑being.

Yoga is an ancient practice with roots in the Himalayan regions and encompasses physical, mental and spiritual elements. The word 'yoga' comes from Sanskrit, meaning 'to join or unite', reflecting the connection between body and mind. Yoga is now practised in many forms worldwide and continues to grow in popularity.

The United Nations officially designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on December 11, 2014, through resolution 69/131. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea at the 69th UN General Assembly, saying yoga is "vital for everyone, for all time." With early support from then Nepa's Prime Minister Sushil Koirala and backing from permanent UN member states and the European Union, the initiative has since gained wide acceptance across regions globally.

(With inputs from RSS)