Exploring the Cosmic Reach of Yoga
The International Day of Yoga, celebrated every year on June 21, shines a spotlight on yoga's remarkable journey from ancient Indian tradition to a global wellness phenomenon. This year, under the evocative theme 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health', over one lakh locations worldwide will host synchronized yoga events, culminating in the main gathering scheduled in Visakhapatnam.
Yoga in Space: India's Unique Contribution
Yoga’s influence has extended not only across continents but even beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. Decades ago, it became an integral part of space missions involving Indian astronauts. Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who became the first Indian to travel to space in 1984, remarkably performed yoga asanas using a specially designed harness to adapt to the microgravity environment.
Sharma tested whether yoga could serve as an effective alternative training regimen to combat space-related health challenges, comparing it to the methods employed by his Russian counterparts. His experiment paved the way for future space travelers to adopt yoga as a tool to maintain physical and mental balance.
Continuing the Tradition: Indian Astronauts Embrace Yoga
- Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, set to become the second Indian in space, is also noted for his dedication to yoga. His mission commander highlighted Shukla’s rigorous fitness routine and yoga practice as assets for space missions.
- Sunita Williams, an Indian-American astronaut, incorporated yoga into her daily regimen during her nine-month tenure aboard the International Space Station (ISS), underscoring yoga’s role in sustaining health in space.
The Growing Global Embrace of International Yoga Day
Since its inception, participation in International Yoga Day has surged dramatically, growing from nearly 9.6 crore participants in 2018 to an astonishing 24.5 crore in 2024. These numbers reflect yoga's universal appeal and its power to unite people across cultures and borders.
Memorable events include the breaking of Guinness World Records with 135 nations coming together at the United Nations in 2023, and over 25.9 lakh online pledges in Uttar Pradesh alone in 2024. Iconic global landmarks — from the Eiffel Tower to the Dead Sea and even the base camp of Mount Everest — have witnessed vibrant yoga celebrations, highlighting the day’s worldwide resonance.
The Vision Behind the Theme: Yoga for One Earth, One Health
This year’s focus reaffirms yoga’s commitment to holistic wellbeing that transcends individual health to embrace the planet’s welfare. The integration of yoga’s principles into everyday life can foster a healthier planet and a healthier society, echoing the interconnectedness of human health and environmental stewardship.
Looking Ahead: The Main Event in Visakhapatnam
Scheduled to be the heart of this year’s celebrations, Visakhapatnam will witness a grand assembly of yoga enthusiasts, embodying the spirit of unity and wellness. With contributions from practitioners across the globe, this event promises to celebrate the enduring legacy of yoga — from its spiritual roots in India to its cosmic reach beyond our world.
India’s Prime Minister has often hailed yoga as a priceless gift from India to humanity, and each International Yoga Day continues to cement that legacy with passion and purpose.
