Yoga, in the real sense of the term, signifies a union or addition to our existing lives; is an ancient health and mental well-being practice that has been associated with Indian civilization, society, and culture for several thousand years. It is believed to be designed and developed through extensive experimentation by ancient sages and monks in better unification of nature and humanity both internally and externally through dedicated practices. Ancient scriptures, scrolls, brick tablets, handwritten palm leaf manuscripts, and various pictures with artistic depictions and architecture of ancient India suggest the origin of Yoga from the Vedic Period. However, many scholars seven relate the origin of yoga to the period of the famous Indus Civilization.
Around the globe, today yoga is practiced in various forms and continues to grow in popularity in both hemispheres. It is equally popular in developed, developing, and underdeveloped nations as an affordable, accessible, and easily applicable method of maintaining fitness. But unlike any other traditional and modern fitness program; yoga secures both positive physical and mental health. Recognizing its universal appeal and accelerated popularity across the planet, the U its Nations on 11th December 2014, proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.
Yoga is a cheap, alternative, traditional system of stretching the body in and around the vertebral column through numerous postures (asanas) and breathing practices (pranayama). This nature-based holistic method of staying physically fit and mentally alert is a popular physical exercise across the planet, not just in India. Yoga helps in building better immunity, circulation, digestion, and properly shaped physique through continuous lifelong practices. It also helps in focusing the mind, building concentration, helps in adding peace, happiness, and quality to human life irrespective of any religious affiliations. With severe pollution of our environment, yoga is an environment-friendly, sustainable practice to sustain our life on this overcrowded planet.
