Yoga - International Day of Yoga Mysuru

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The COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented human tragedy. 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 were introduced 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.

People around the world embraced yoga to stay healthy and rejuvenated and to fight social isolation and depression 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.

In addition to the human suffering, the COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted several key vulnerabilities of the economic and developmental models of countries around the world. Future prosperity demands that the member states rebuild differently as they recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The essence of yoga is balance – not just balance within the body or that between the mind and the body, but also balance in the human relationship with the world. Yoga emphasizes the values of mindfulness, moderation, discipline and perseverance. When applied to communities and societies, Yoga offers a path for sustainable living.

Yoga can be an important instrument in the collective quest of humanity for promoting sustainable lifestyle in harmony with planet Earth. In keeping with this spirit, the theme for this year’s Yoga Day celebrations is “Yoga for Humanity.”

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India’s cherished cultural heritage, Yoga gained universal affirmation as it was inscribed on the UNESCO’s representative list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity on 1st December 2016.
The increased global acceptance of Yoga has made IDY a mass movement for health and well-being resulting in adequate global recognition for Indian knowledge systems.
Millions of health care workers and COVID-19 patients recovered fast after practicing Yogasana, pranayama, and meditation based on scientific evidence.
2 Guinness World Records were set for the maximum number of people and the maximum number of nationalities participating in a mass Yoga demonstration in 2015 on International Day of Yoga.
Over 1 crore people performed Surya Namaskar across the globe on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti on 14 January 2022 to enhance vitality.
Yogasana has been declared as a competitive sport by the Government of India to promote the ancient practice and spread awareness about its benefits and help improve the physical and mental wellbeing of the people.
A technological revolution is occurring in Yoga with the inclusion of IDY assets, including mobile-based applications viz. Namaste Yoga, Y-Break, WHO mYoga, and Yoga portal.
International Day of Yoga is being observed in 192 countriesmaking it the biggest ever event for global well-being. IDY events are also celebrated in over 170 countries through Indian Missions and Posts abroad.
Hon’ble Prime Minister declared two Awards- International and National Awards for outstanding contributions to the promotion and development of Yoga.
The concept of Yoga Smart cities is included in the 100 Smart Cities Mission in India to utilize the full potential of Yoga through smart solutions.
More than 1,000 Universities, 30,000 colleges, and 24,000 CBSE affiliated schools have been sensitized about Common Yoga Protocol and its benefits for a healthy lifestyle and enormously to mental well-being, especially for the Youth community.
1.25 lakh wellness centres provide Yoga education for positive impulses and consistency toward holistic health.
Over 2 lakh Gram Panchayats have been sensitized about regular practice of Yoga and Common Yoga Protocol for better health and well-being.
Introduction of the National Yoga Olympiad in schools to reduce stress and create a sense of unity among students as Yoga brings everyone together, respecting diversity and creating harmony.
Since the inception of the International Day of Yoga, thousands of women are turning to Yoga to usher towards a healthy lifestyle and enormously to mental well-being.
Several differently abled people have started performing Yoga for the heap of benefits it brings regardless of any physical condition by developing resilience and spirit for holistic health.
Introduction of Yoga in all uniformed services to enhance overall personality development, stress management and enabling to build strength, stability and flexibility.

#IDY2022 #IDYMysuru #InternationalDayofYoga2022 #Yoga #MDNIY #Yogotsav2022 #YogaUtsav

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Ahead of the International Day of Yoga to be celebrated on June 21, preparations for it have intensified with the Yoga Federation of Mysore stepping up its efforts.

Various preparations have gathered steam since last week when it was officially confirmed that Mysuru would be leading the IDY event in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate and perform yoga with thousands of people.

On Sunday, nearly 2,500 people took part in the rehearsal that was conducted at the Suttur Mutt near the Chamundi foothills in the presence of Suttur seer Sri Shivaratri Deshikendra Swamiji. The seer, who addressed the gathering, said that Mr. Modi himself was a yoga practitioner and hence, the event in Mysuru should be held without any glitches to make it a model for the rest of the country.

The organisers ensured that the rehearsal followed the common protocol for yoga day as stipulated by the Ministry of Ayush and there was synchronised movement to appeal to the viewers. MLA Mr. S.A. Ramdas said that the message of benefits of yoga and the imperatives of good health should be taken to the door steps of the people. With just about 3 weeks left for the event efforts should be stepped up to increase the number of registrations.

The organisers plan to rope in at least 2 lakh people to perform simultaneously and create a record besides sending a strong message that Mysuru is the home for yoga so as to give a boost to the tourism potential.

Mr. Ramdas said that every household should have a yoga practitioner taking part in the event. Next Sunday, a rehearsal will be conducted at the palace premises and the surrounding precincts and the Yoga Federation expects about 30,000 people to take part in it. There will also be a rehearsal at the Race Course grounds a few days before the actual event on June 21.

Various yoga schools and institutions in the city conducted a rehearsal of the common protocol stipulated for the International Day of Yoga, on Sunday.

The rehearsal follows after the confirmation that the city will play host to the main IDY event to be led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The rehearsal entailed dhyana, pranayama and practicing the various postures stipulated in the common protocol. About 500 teachers are being trained as master trainers who in turn will impart training to other yoga enthusiasts to prepare them for the IDY to be held on June 21.

The members and office-bearers of various yoga schools and institutions, under the banner of Yoga Federation of Mysuru, also chalked out the kind of preparations that need to be completed ahead of the actual event. S.A. Ramdas, MLA, said it was an opportunity to showcase and project Mysuru to an international audience and hence advised serious preparation.

The yoga federation members have been in rehearsal mode for a month now. It will be held till the conclusion of the yoga day. It was also decided to rope in over 5,000 students from the JSS institutions for the yoga day and conduct the next round of rehearsal at the Suttur Mutt near Chamundi Hills.

The main event of 8^th International Day of Yoga (IDY-2022) demonstration will be held at Mysuru in Karnataka on 21^st June 2022. Minister of Ayush Shri Sarbanand Sonowal announced today that Mysuru has been selected as the venue for Mass Yoga Demonstration (Main Event) of 8th IDY.

As this IDY is falling in the “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” year, the Ministry has also planned to observe IDY at 75 iconic locations across the country and is focusing on branding India on a global scale.

Addressing the media persons Shri Sarbanand said that apart from the main event at Mysuru another attraction on 21^st June this year will be the Guardian Ring, a relay Yoga streaming event which will capture and weave together digital feed of IDY programmes organised by Indian Missions abroad. The proposed plan is to initiate the streaming from Japan, the land of rising sun, at 6 am local time.

The Minister also informed that a series of events are planned in the run up to IDY and the 25 Day Countdown is being observed at Hyderabad on May 27, wherein around 10 thousand Yoga enthusiasts will participate in the Yoga demonstration.

The event will witness the auspicious presence of the Governor of Karnataka, Union Ministers, Film Stars, Sports Persons, Celebrities, revered Yoga Gurus, eminent dignitaries, experts of Yoga and allied science, local Yoga institutions and Yoga enthusiasts.

The earlier mega countdown events were organised at Shivdol (50^th Day Countdown on May 2) and Red Fort (75^th Day Countdown on April 7).

The Union Ministry of Ayush has confirmed the observance of 8th International Day of Yoga (IDY) at Mysuru city, which is known as the cultural capital and major historic destination of Karnataka on June 21.
The Ministry of Ayush has written to Chief Secretary of Karnataka P Ravikumar regarding the matter and directed him to issue necessary directions to all the concerned to make arrangements for successful organisation of the main event of IDY 2022. “The preparations for IDY-2022 are already underway. As the upcoming 8th IDY is falling in ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ year, this Ministry plans to observe IDY at 75 iconic sites across the country. This year, the IDY will be focused on Branding India on the global stage,” the letter read.
Every year, the main event of IDY observation happens in a particular city where thousands of people participate in Mass Yoga Demonstration by following Common Yoga Protocol. The main event of IDY observation is led by the Prime Minister himself. The main event of this IDY observation will be held in Mysuru.

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The main event of the Yoga Day will be conducted at Mysuru

Ahead of the International Yoga Day to be celebrated on June 21, a preliminary meeting was held in the city on Sunday and yoga organisations talked out the action plan besides releasing the event poster.

The organisations included the Mysuru Yoga Federation and it said that they were hopeful that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would lead the Yoga Day celebrations from the city. Their hopes have been shored up following an invitation extended to the PM by Mysuru MP Pratap Simha consequent to which a team of officials from Delhi conducted site inspections recently.

The Sunday preparatory meeting was held at the Yoga Narasimhaswamy temple and the first rehearsal entailing practice of yogic exercises, pranayama and dhyana, was also conducted.

The main event of the Yoga Day will be conducted in Mysuru and banners and posters were released. The organisers said that in anticipation of the Prime Minister’s participation — though it is not officially confirmed – the yoga schools in the city will conduct an awareness drive on the Yoga Day and seek more public participation.

There are scores of yoga schools in Mysuru and they were training teachers who will impart lessons to beginners and prepare them for the yoga day, according to the organisers.

Some of the common contraindications of asana practice are as follows:

High BP and cardiac conditions: People with hypertension or high blood pressure should generally avoid inverted asanas or any asana where the heart is above the head and poses that put additional pressure on the heart and increase the blood pressure. Ex: Avoid sarvangasana, sirsasana.

Joint issues: People who have problems with ankles, knees, hips, wrists, and shoulders should skip or adapt to asanas that don’t put pressure or stress on the joints. Ex: Avoid plank pose for weak wrists.

Pregnancy: The body keeps changing during pregnancy and so should the yoga practice. It is advisable to modify, and adapt asanas according to the stage of pregnancy and avoid poses that put pressure to the abdomen and back, especially backbends and twisting asanas and prone poses. Ex: Avoid Bhujangasana, chakrasana.

Surgery and injury: People who have undergone surgery or are injured should first consult a doctor to determine when they can resume/start a yoga practice and how it can affect the operated or injured area. Ex: Avoid hip flexing asanas like balasana, garudasana after a hip replacement surgery.

Seniors: Classes for seniors should generally be slow-paced as they may have osteoporosis or other health problems. Asanas should be modified to avoid fractures and ensure safety. Ex: Avoid spinal twists and flexions for osteoporosis.

Hernia and ulcers: People with severe ailments like this should avoid core strengthening asanas as they worsen the condition. Ex: Avoid Naukasana.

Sciatica and back problems: Avoid asanas that involve advanced forward folds and backbends as this will only worsen the condition. Adapt to gentle, restorative asanas that work on easing the pain. Ex: Avoid Paschimottanasana.

India, the fabled land of seers, sages, spiritual leaders and healers has been a beacon of light for the West for centuries. It is known for its tremendous cultural power that has maintained a deep impact on the world for thousands of years. Therichness of India’s culture is manifest in a myriad traditions, languages, faiths and rituals that lend it both wealth and depth. People of this revered land exude a sense of vitality and positive energy that conveys the essence of life. Though the west has cast its influence through colonial rule, the people of India still hold on to their rich culture and heritage which is a thing to be marvelled at.

Arguably, the most trending thing in the world, yoga is believed to have originated in India about 5,000 years ago. As per the yogic lore, Adiyogi, the first yogi, transmitted the science of yoga to the legendary Saptrishis or “seven sages”. He presented and explained 112 ways through which mortal beings can surpass their limitations and unleash their ultimate potential. Adiyogi’s offerings were carried to different parts of the world by these seven enlightened sages. Agastya, the sage who travelled across to the Indian Subcontinent was the most effective in terms of incorporating the spiritual process in practical life, not just as an ideology but as a way of life itself. It is his teaching and philosophy that has crafted the Indian culture around a core yogic way of life.

However, it was not until the birth of another legend, Maharishi Patanjali, that the diversified and complex Yogic knowledge was assimilated into a certain format known as Yoga Sutra. Believed to be the incarnation of Anantha, the thousand headed serpent king, he was blessed with a deep understanding of the human body, human mind and human consciousness. His concise Sanskrit rendering of the essential philosophy and technique of yoga forms the cornerstone of Yoga literature. It is still popular today, and is a part of almost every yoga curriculum.

There is within each mortal being a spark of creativity, call it the soul, the life force or by whatever name. It is this spark that forms the basis of human consciousness. Every individual is unique in himself because he brings forth a special amalgamation of forces revolving around a spiritual core. Yoga helps us connect this spiritual core with the all prevading cosmic source.

The four paths of Yoga, namely Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, Gyana Yoga and Raja Yoga allow us to drive away the clouds of ignorance from our consciousness. These four yoga paths are not independent of one another. Each yoga path is intricately linked to the other. When we are devoted to God, we are bhakti yogis. When we stand for our fellow human beings we are Karma Yogis. When we engross ourselves in Yoga Practices, we are Raja Yogis. When we reflect upon the true purpose of life, we are Gyana Yogis. As is commonly said, “All roads lead to Rome.”, so all paths lead to Salvation.

With increase in urbanization and emergence of start-ups, stressed lifestyles have become the order of the day in most cities. With lesser time to embrace the nature and seek physical and mental calmness, many take to Yoga as a regular regime. This is one of the main reasons why yoga retreats are catching up in India like never before.

Besides, yoga is not about escaping from a stressful routine, but it is the way to unite with one’s highest potential, one’s real self and thus, be empowered to face life with a calm mind and a positive attitude. The word ‘yoga’ comes from the Sanskrit term ‘yuj’ which means to unite. Yoga, thus, is the path to uniting with our true, creative, higher selves and with the Universal consciousness or God. The aim of yoga has always been to integrate; to restore a state of perfect balance. Yoga is not just an isolated practice but a state of mind or a way of life. A yogi is the one who lives and acts with an awareness of being in communion with the Source.

So here are some of the idyllic yoga retreats that you can visit to spend time in solitude, and learn this ancient art of connecting with yourself and with the flow of life.

Bihar School of Yoga, Munger:

Tucked away in the serene ambience of Gaya, Bihar School of Yoga is a spell binding Yoga retreat in Northern India which allows you to enter into the realm of salvation. While the serenity of this spiritual centre makes it an ideal place to connect with your inner self, revitalize your mind, body and soul, and feel alive, its ethereal scenic beauty also attracts numerous yoga lovers who travel here from across the world to transcend into a state of peace. A typical day at this offbeat retreat begins at 4 am and ends at twilight around 6 pm. In between are times of meditation, Satsang, Kirtans and different types of Yogic Practices such as Raja, Hatha and Kriya Yoga along with a little bit of rest. You can also
soak in the enlightening workshops being conducted by spiritual gurus at the centre.

Himalayan Iyengar Yoga Centre:

“Yoga is not just for a yogi to gain enlightenment and freedom but also for the common man to be peaceful and happy learning to adapt to the present environment and adopt a lifestyle that brings harmony.”

Perhaps it this ideology which has been driving Himalayan Yoga Centre since 1984. Founded by the renowned Yoga guru BKS Iyengar and well known for its rigourous, dedicated yet, practical approach, the centre boasts of an array of yoga and meditation courses to suit various requirements and time frames of visitors. Because it is situated in the arms of Himalayas, the visitors can get a rare opportunity to experience the quietness and peacefulness unknown to the urban world.

Ananda in the Himalayas, Uttranchal:

If you are thinking about taking a break from the stressful lifestyle of cities and are craving to immerse yourself in a spiritually rejuvenating yet luxurious experience, head to this award winning resort located in the Himalayan foothills. Perched at a height of 4350 ft, the place offers a breathtaking sight of the graceful Sai forests and Ganges river valley.

Once you step foot into this wellness centre, you will have a choice to pamper yourself with aromatic and soothing massages or be introduced to different types of meditation and well tried ‘Shuddhi Kriyas’ intended with the motive of restoring balance and harmonizing energy in the body.

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantri Ashram, Kerala:

Ever closed your eyes and wished you had your personal button to make your life easier and less stressful?

Well, dreams do come true. Especially when you arrive in this ashram located in God’s own country. Formerly an ayurvedic sanctuary of healing, the spiritual complex offers an ideal atmosphere for the practice of yoga and meditation. The best thing about this place is the library that boasts of a rich collection of books on yoga and related topics. Visitors also get to enjoy fresh fruit salads, fresh
juices and snacks prepared with love and care.

Osho Meditation Resort, Pune:

Intricately linked with Pune’s identity, this world renowned resort, located in a leafy, luxurious northern suburb, has been serving humanity since the death of Osho, a well known contemporary spiritual Guru in 1990. Situated at a distance of 7 kms from Pune airport, this sprawling property offers a unique blend of traditional Vedic life and luxurious modern amenities. With its lush gardens, luscious walking trails, luxury spa and contemporary architecture, it is, to the weary souls, the perfect place to indulge in some deep meditation. Come to this spiritual sanctuary and master the art of watching your habitual patterns in a new way.

Isha Yoga Centre, Coimbatore:

“ The reason why the ashram is being structured and created the way it is, is to make people understand that a spiritual process does not mean barrenness of life. Spiritual process means grandeur of life.”

The majestic spiritual retreat centre is constructed in the foothills o the Velliangiri mountains, forty kilometres from the city of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. The centre is dedicated to fostering inner transformation and creating an established state of wellbeing in individuals. Established by Sadhguru, a renowned modern – day spiritual teacher, the centre is a powerful hub for inner growth and offers the four paths of yoga – gyana (knowledge), karma (action), kriya (energy) and bhakti (devotion). It is also complete with all modern amenities that make it an ideal destination for anyone seeking spiritual solace.

Heal Your Back With These Asanas

We all suffer from back pain from time to time. As common as back pain is, many of us don’t know how to tackle it, and continue to ignore it. This can lead to the pain getting worse over time, and can even interfere with your daily life and routine. Simple tasks such as bending over or looking over our shoulders can prove to be painful.

In today’s busy world, we’re constantly on the move. Taking care of daily chores and errands, sitting and working in chairs for long periods, or just slouching on the couch. This can lead to us feeling tightness in our backs. It is often very easy to ignore this pain when it’s just a mild and irritating sensation, but this same irritation, if not tackled early, can lead to irreversible damage to your posture and your spine and can leave long term effects on your body. It can affect your quality of life and may even barre you from engaging in certain physical activities.

Aches and pains are our body’s way of telling us that it needs more attention and that if left unattended, it may worsen.

With a consistent yoga practice that actively targets the back, not only can you find relief from the pain that you may be feeling to expedite your healing process, you can also strengthen your back to prevent that pain from coming back.

Causes

Backache is fairly common and can be caused by a number of things. It is important to be mindful of any lifestyle changes that you may need to make for active recovery or to be mindful of any habits that may be causing you to feel tightness in your back.

One of the most common causes of back injury is slouching for long periods. If your work demands you to sit in a chair for an extended duration of time, make sure you do so on a chair that provides adequate support for your back. It may also be beneficial to stretch your back from time to time, even if it’s just on your chair.

Certain sports such as hiking with heavy gear, or cycling may also cause backaches as it requires your back to be in a hunched position for a long time. One way to tackle this is to always ensure that you’re engaging in a proper warm-up and cool-down routine before and after any strenuous physical activity. Even a short warm-up can help prevent injury.

Another common cause of back pain can be bad posture. Sometimes, sleeping in odd positions, or sleeping on soft mattresses can also lead to tightness in your back muscles. In such cases, it may be useful to focus your yoga practice on recovery and relaxation, as well as increasing the mobility of your spine by doing spinal twists and backbends.

How Yoga Can Help

If you already have a back injury, yoga can help speed up your recovery process. Many yoga asanas directly target the muscles in your upper and lower back, as well as your side body to provide immediate relief from aches and pains in the back.

A consistent yoga practice can help increase the range of motion in your spine, as well as increase spine mobility and flexibility. The process of stretching as you do in many yoga asanas can help release any tension you may be holding.

It is also equally important to strengthen the muscles in your back so as to prevent injury and yoga can help you do so gently without adding any extra strain on your muscles and your joints so that your back can continue to heal.

Yoga Asanas For The Back

Here are some yoga asanas that you can try that directly target your back. These asanas help strengthen as well as stretch the muscles in your back to help provide a speedy recovery.

1.Cat-Cow (Bitilasana Marjaryasana)

The cat-cow is a gentle flow that targets the back of your neck, shoulders and your spine. It also prepares and warms up your back for the rest of your practice, especially for asanas that involve backbends or forward folds. The breathing involved in the cat-cow flow also helps calm your mind and helps you connect with your breath.

2.Sphinx (Salamba Bhujangasana)

Another gentle and beginner-friendly pose that can help release tension from the lower back. There are many modifications available for the sphinx pose that can help target the neck and shoulders as well.

3.Cobra pose (Bhujangasana)

Cobra pose is another asana that helps you release any tension and pain from the lower back. It also stretches the front of your body and can help open your chest to help you feel calmer and more energized during your practice.

4.Locust pose (Salabhasana)

Locust asana can help strengthen the muscles in your back. This pose stabilizes your core and tones your glutes. The locust pose also stimulates your digestive system.

5.Supine spinal twist (Supta Matsyendrasana)

Supine spinal twist can help increase the mobility of your spine as well as release any tension from the backs of your shoulders and your side body.

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