Proclaimed by the United Nations, the International Day of Yoga is being celebrated globally on 21 June since 2015. According to the UN Chief, yoga is an invaluable gift of India's ancient tradition that embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well-being.
The theme for the observance in 2021 is "Yoga for well-being" at the times of COVID-19 pandemic crisis that continues to upend lives and livelihoods of people globally, stated the website of the UN. As the UN puts it, "Beyond its immediate impact on physical health, the COVID-19 pandemic has also exacerbated psychological suffering and mental health problems, including depression and anxiety, as pandemic-related restrictions continue in various forms in many countries. This has highlighted the urgent need to address the mental health dimension of the pandemic, in addition to the physical health aspects."
"The message of Yoga in promoting both the physical and mental well-being of humanity has never been more relevant. A growing trend of people around the world embracing Yoga to stay healthy and rejuvenated and to fight social isolation and depression has been witnessed during the pandemic. Yoga is also playing a significant role in the psycho-social care and rehabilitation of COVID-19 patients in quarantine and isolation. It is particularly helpful in allaying their fears and anxiety," stated the UN.
According to the UNICEF, kids can practice many yoga poses without any risk and get the same benefits that adults do which include increased flexibility and fitness, mindfulness and relaxation.
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