21 JUNE – INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY, SO WHY JUNE 21ST?

          The teachings and philosophy of yoga have always felt close to my heart. I’ve always felt so free on the mat. Whenever I felt stuck, I would throw myself onto the mat and find relief. And of course, thanks to the motivation of my beloved yoga teachers, I was able to make progress. They spoke such key phrases that unlocked the codes within me — my body began to free itself. And as my body was liberated, I began to part ways with emotions that no longer belonged to me. Each farewell brought me one step closer to myself.

Another gift yoga has given me is the miracles I’ve experienced in my body through water fasting, breathwork, and sattvic nutrition. Feeling lighter and well physically is a truly holistic approach. Because yoga is not just about movements. As someone who has practiced various other sports for years, I would say that what sets yoga apart is its holistic nature and profound philosophy.

Taking a pause from time to time, supporting your life motivation, breathing, and being present with your body feels good. Then comes the feeling of relaxation, safety, calmness, and the energy to keep going. As my relationship with my body has strengthened, the physical power I’ve gained has also empowered me mentally. In the hustle of this modern world, everyone must find a method that works for them — otherwise, don’t you think we might be caught in a cycle we’re not even aware of?

The word “Yoga” comes from the Sanskrit root “yuj,” which means “to unite, to control, to join,” symbolizing the unity of mind, soul, and body. Indeed, yoga represents a deeply holistic approach to harmony between humans and nature, health, and well-being. It is precisely because of the qualities I mentioned above that yoga continues to remain relevant today. At a time when many of us are wondering how to eat healthily or how to carve out a break for ourselves, yoga offers answers to all these questions. And for exactly this reason, to raise awareness about yoga, every June 21 has been celebrated as “International Yoga Day” since 2014. But why June 21?

June 21 is the longest day of the year — the solstice. Its significance in the world of yoga lies in the symbolic transition into Dakshinayana, a six-month period from the yogic perspective. Dakshinayana is important in the life of every yoga practitioner. Especially for those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere, it is believed that the sun’s movement to the south and the Earth’s rotation against the clock have significant effects on human physiology. So it’s no coincidence that this day was chosen as International Yoga Day.

In Hindu culture, June 21 is also a time when people are intensely supported in their spiritual practices and energy work. The first full moon after June 21 is called “Guru Poornima,” a day that represents the energies of wisdom and is believed to be the day the first guru was born. For this reason, when June 21 is celebrated, gratitude is also shown to teachers in Hindu culture.

The world’s first Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy — known as AYUSH — was established in India in 2014. The ministry, which is responsible for alternative and complementary therapies, has representatives in many countries and determines the theme for International Yoga Day each year.

Happy Solstice, happy Yoga Day — stay with love...

Arzu SEZGİN