India and other countries are celebrating International Yoga Day 2016 on June 21. The main event held in Chandigarh in the presence of PM Narendra Modi. Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness. Today it is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity. Recognizing its universal appeal, on 11 December 2014, the United Nations proclaimed 21 June as International Yoga Day by resolution 69/131. International Yoga Day aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.

Yoga in India is considered to be around 5,000 year old mental, physical and spiritual practice. Yoga was originated in India in ancient time when people were used of meditation to transform their body and mind. Launching a particular date of practicing yoga all across the world and celebrating as yoga day was initiated by the Indian Prime Minister to the United Nations General Assembly. Possibly in today’s world, there is no country that does not celebrate International Yoga Day. Yoga is anyway quite popular among fitness enthusiasts of all ages. Such fitness lovers often go to lengths to buy the best eco friendly yoga mat and clothing items that can make them feel one with the ascetic discipline.

Maharishi Patanjali

• Maharishi Patanjali is the ‘father of Yoga’ who compiled 195 Yoga Sutras that became the foundation of Yoga philosophy.
• The commentary on these sutras is called Bhasya.
• The core essence of Patanjali is the eightfold path of Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga) that focusses upon healthy living through Yoga.