Yoga: An Indian cultural export to the world

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Yoga is a centuries-old practice that combines physical, mental, and spiritual elements to promote overall well-being and harmony. The word means – “to join”. It joins mind and the body. Rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, yoga has gained immense popularity worldwide as a holistic approach to health and self-discovery.

Yoga describes a series of postures, known as asanas. It also includes various controlled breathing techniques. Yoga aims to cultivate strength, flexibility, and balance in the body while calming the mind and reducing stress. The postage stamp-set from 1991 (below has four poses – Ustrasana (Camel pose), Bhujanga Asana (Cobra pose), Trikonasana (triangle pose), and Dhanurasana (Bow pose). The poses in Yogasanas are often named after animals, birds, plants, objects and states of human existence.

Beyond its physical benefits, yoga is also a pathway to self-awareness and inner peace. It provides practitioners with a means to connect with their inner selves. We practice it as a form of exercise, meditation, or as a means of self-exploration.

Yoga becomes international

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Indian spiritual leaders like Swami Vivekananda and Paramahansa Yogananda introduced yoga to the West. They shared its principles and practices with curious seekers in the United States. Over next century, yoga gained recognition as a system of exercise, relaxation, and spiritual exploration.

Many Yoga studios opened up across the world. In 1960s, many followers from the West, came to India to learn its techniques. These newly inspired Yogis organised various yoga festivals, retreats, and teacher training programs. By 2014 the popularity of Yoga was well established. Hence, in December 2014, when India proposed “International Yoga Day” to the United Nations – the resolution was supported by 175 countries. Thus, 21st June was marked as the International Day of Yoga.

Why 21st June ?

21st June holds significance as it marks the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, which is the longest day of the year. The choice of this date reflects the symbolism of the summer solstice, a time when the sun is at its highest point and represents the journey from darkness to light.

Surya Namaskar

Surya Namaskar, also known as Sun Salutation, is a popular sequence of yoga asanas (postures. It is traditionally practiced facing the rising or setting sun. In 2016, India Post issued a miniature sheet to depict the sequence of these postures. This sequence has also become a feature of various subsequent special covers.

Beyond Physical postures

While popular perception of Yoga are its physical postures, it has a greater focus on mind and energy. Meditation is an integral part of Yoga. It is a specific practice that has a focus on training the mind. Physical postures, prepare the body for meditation by increasing flexibility, and strength.

A mudra refers to a symbolic hand gesture or position in Yoga. The word “mudra” originates from the Sanskrit language, where “mud” means joy or delight, and “ra” means produce or bring forth. By bringing different fingers and hands into specific configurations, mudras stimulate specific energy pathways in the body.

International Yoga day turns nine

In 2023, International Yoga day turns nine. Last year, many postal circles in India had issued special covers to mark the day. Hopefully more will be issued today as well. Last postage stamp was however, issued in 2016.

A related blog: Traditional systems of Medicine