The practice of yoga has roots that date back 5000 years in India and is a combination of physical, mental, and spiritual pursuits aimed at attaining balance between the body and mind. The word "yuj" meaning "to connect or unite" is thought to be the origin of the word "yoga" with Sanskrit origins. There are four primary branches of yoga, namely Kriya Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Service and Knowledge Yoga, which can further be divided into various categories. Although yoga has long been a well-known tradition in India, it has only recently gained popularity in the western world.
The International Yoga Festival, held annually, is a celebration of yoga and its many benefits. During this 7-day event, participants can immerse themselves in various yoga styles, taught by spiritual leaders, master yoga teachers, and wellness experts from around the world. The festival is held at Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, one of India's largest interfaith yoga institutes. It raises awareness of the health benefits of yoga and takes place from March 8-14, 2023.
The International Yoga Day, which was first celebrated in 2015, was officially declared by the United Nations after being suggested by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and approved by 175 member states. During the festival, participants gather to practice yoga asanas, including 200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh. The event also includes a range of activities, from early morning Kundalini sadhana to traditional cultural song and dance on the banks of the Ganges River at night.
According to a yoga trainer at Sattva Yoga Academy, Anand Mehrotra, a lack of physical activity is one of the top 10 leading causes of death worldwide and a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of severe diseases such as cancer. However, yoga is much more than just physical movement and has numerous benefits, including improving musculoskeletal function, promoting cardiovascular health, managing lifestyle-related disorders, reducing stress, and harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit.
For those interested in incorporating yoga into their lives, Anand Mehrotra, a certified trainer, can provide guidance, and there are also many books and videos available online. However, it is important to start slowly and understand that yoga is a journey and a way of life, not just a goal to achieve.
In conclusion, yoga is an ancient practice that offers numerous benefits for the body and mind, and the International Yoga Festival is a celebration of this way of life. The festival will be held in Rishikesh, considered the "Yoga Capital of the World", from March 8-14, 2023. Join in this celebration and experience the birthplace of yoga, where yogis, sages, and seers of the past once lived.
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