International Yoga Day 2025: A Worldwide Embrace of Wellness and Unity
As dawn broke across the globe on June 21, yoga enthusiasts rolled out their mats from New York’s Times Square to London’s Strand and beyond, marking the 11th International Yoga Day. This year’s theme, "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," encapsulated a call for holistic well-being that intertwines personal health with the planet’s welfare.
Guided Meditation at the United Nations Headquarters
The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations orchestrated a special guided meditation on the North Lawns at the UN headquarters in New York. Over 1,200 participants – including yoga practitioners, diplomats, UN officials, and members of the diaspora – gathered to partake in the event, underscoring yoga’s reach across cultures and communities.
India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador P Harish, welcomed attendees by emphasizing the deep-rooted Indian principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning 'the whole world is one family,' and highlighted the link between self-care and planetary well-being.
Physician and wellness expert Dr. Deepak Chopra led the group through the guided meditation, lending his voice to a celebration of balance, mindfulness, and health.
UN Secretary-General’s Heartfelt Message
In his message commemorating the day, the UN Secretary-General praised yoga as an ancient practice that delivers healing and inner peace. He recognized its global acceptance, despite its Indian origins, and underscored yoga’s power to unite people across cultures.
“Yoga calls for a more peaceful and harmonious future, aligning mind, spirit, and planet,” he said.
London’s Vibrant Yoga Gathering at the Strand
Across the Atlantic, hundreds congregated at London’s iconic Strand for a dynamic yoga session hosted by the Indian High Commission along with King’s College London. Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami shared a message from King Charles III, who praised the growing popularity of yoga throughout the UK and its benefits in enhancing mental and physical health.
The day commenced with the rhythmic Drums of India courtesy of Bhavan UK, followed by diverse yoga styles such as Surya Namaskar and Iyengar Yoga. Various wellness organizations, including Heartfulness UK, Art of Living, and Isha Foundation, led their own sessions, culminating in a lively yoga-dance performance called Samagam.
Mass Participation in Times Square, New York
Back in New York, the Consulate General of India teamed up with the Times Square Alliance to present “Solstice at Times Square,” a day-long yoga fiesta on one of the world’s most bustling stages. The event hosted around 10,000 participants from diverse backgrounds, embracing yoga’s unifying spirit in the heart of the city.
The celebration even drew attendance from notable figures in arts and wellness, further shining a spotlight on yoga’s widespread appeal. Beyond the event, a month-long series of yoga activities took place across the northeastern US states, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Connecticut.
Global Virtual Engagements
Yoga’s reach extended into the digital realm, with New York City’s Department of Parks and Recreation leading ‘Rise & Shine Flow’ sessions online. Participants worldwide were invited to join from home, creating a sense of community grounded in wellness and shared practice.
Voices of Leadership: Yoga as a Remedy for Global Tensions
Reflecting on the turbulent global landscape, a prominent leader from Andhra Pradesh remarked on yoga’s vital role as a stabilizing force. In times of unrest and uncertainty, yoga serves as a much-needed “pause button,” offering respite and balance to individuals and societies alike.
International Yoga Day 2025: A Testament to Collective Well-being
This year’s celebration powerfully reinforced yoga’s dual promise: cultivating personal health and nurturing planetary care. Amid diverse settings – from prestigious halls to public parks and digital platforms – communities united to honor a tradition that transcends borders and beliefs, weaving a tapestry of peace, harmony, and holistic wellness across continents.
