On June 20, New York City’s Times Square transformed into a vibrant yoga venue to celebrate the 10th International Day of Yoga. This event, marking a decade of UN recognition, combined with the summer solstice, highlighted this year’s theme: “Mind Over Madness.”
Event Highlights
- Times Square Transformation: Times Square, known for its bustling energy and constant activity, provided a dramatic backdrop for the yoga celebration. Hundreds of New Yorkers gathered to participate in seven hour-long yoga sessions throughout the day, led by various instructors including Susan Hu, known as Brinda Kumari Devi Dasi. Hu emphasized that if one can practice yoga amidst the chaos of Times Square, it can be done anywhere.
- Yoga’s Universal Appeal: Hu, the lead yoga teacher from New York’s Bhakti Center, stressed the internal benefits of yoga beyond the physical practice. Her sessions aimed to connect practitioners with their inner selves amidst external noise.
- Historical and Cultural Significance: The International Day of Yoga, initiated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and adopted by the UN in 2014, celebrates yoga’s origins in ancient India. The day aims to promote awareness of yoga’s benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the day as an opportunity to embrace yoga’s timeless values for a peaceful future.
Voices from the Community
- Guru Dileep ji: A key figure in the push for International Yoga Day at the UN, he described yoga as a universal teaching transcending cultural and religious boundaries.
- Anu Sehgal: Founder of The Culture Tree, Sehgal emphasized yoga’s deep-rooted significance in Indian culture and its application to modern life. Her upcoming event on the historic Wavertree aims to teach practical yogic techniques for daily life, aligning with the UN’s theme of “Yoga for Self and Society.”
- Nikita Bhasin: A young Indian American yoga teacher, Bhasin shared her experience of integrating yoga into her professional life. Raised in a religious Hindu household, she now promotes the view that yoga is a versatile practice, not solely tied to religious devotion.
Reflection on Yoga’s Evolution
The International Day of Yoga serves not only as a celebration of the practice itself but also as a reminder of yoga’s rich philosophical and cultural heritage. From Times Square’s vibrant chaos to quiet personal reflections, the day demonstrated yoga’s ability to offer peace and connection in diverse settings.
FAQ
1. What was the theme of this year’s International Day of Yoga? The theme was “Mind Over Madness,” focusing on finding inner peace amidst external chaos.
2. Where did the celebration take place in New York City? The celebration was held in Times Square, a location known for its high energy and activity.
3. Who led the yoga sessions at the event? Susan Hu, also known as Brinda Kumari Devi Dasi, was one of the lead instructors, guiding participants through yoga practices and teachings.
4. What is the significance of International Yoga Day? The day, recognized by the UN, celebrates yoga’s origins in India and its benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It aims to raise global awareness about yoga.
5. How does the event reflect yoga’s universal appeal? The event showcased yoga’s ability to connect people across different cultures and backgrounds, emphasizing its practice beyond just physical exercise.
6. What other related events are taking place? Anu Sehgal’s organization, The Culture Tree, is hosting an event aboard the historic ship Wavertree, focusing on practical yogic techniques and aligning with the UN’s theme.
7. How does yoga integrate into daily life according to practitioners? Practitioners like Nikita Bhasin highlight that yoga offers benefits beyond physical exercise, including enhanced presence and awareness in various aspects of life.
