- 21 June every year
- Named by the UN in 2014
- First held in 2015
Where it began
Yoga is an old practice from India that joins breath, body and mind. The word yoga comes from Sanskrit and is often explained as joining or union.
In 2014 the Prime Minister of India proposed a world day of yoga at the United Nations. The General Assembly agreed in December 2014, with very wide support from member countries.
21 June was chosen because it is the longest day of the year in the northern half of the world, a day that holds special meaning in many cultures.
How it grew over time
Ancient times
Yoga ideas appear in old Indian texts, and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali set out its paths.
20th century
Teachers carry yoga from India to Europe, America and the rest of the world.
2014
The United Nations declares 21 June the International Day of Yoga.
2015
The first Yoga Day is held, with a very large group session in New Delhi.
Today
People in many countries join group sessions, each year under a new theme.
How it is celebrated in different places
India
Large group sessions are held in cities, at schools, offices and army camps, often at sunrise.
New York, USA
People roll out mats in public spaces such as Times Square on the longest day.
Europe and Asia
Parks, beaches and famous squares host free open classes.
International Day of Yoga moments
International Day of Yoga today
Today people of every age join a short morning session on the day. Many use it to start a daily habit of stretching and calm breathing.
