Author: Team Amrita Yoga, Amritapuri
Summary: This year’s International Day of Yoga (IDY) theme, “Yoga for Self and Society,” highlights yoga’s power to transform both individuals and communities. As Amma emphasized, yoga is not just a physical exercise but a path to mental peace, spiritual growth, and self-dependence—a state where true happiness and security come from within, unaffected by external circumstances. By promoting both physical and mental well-being, yoga is essential in today’s world, reducing stress and fostering mindfulness. This individual practice creates a ripple effect, inspiring others and contributing to a healthier, more balanced society.
This year’s International Day of Yoga (IDY) theme, “Yoga for Self and Society,” highlights yoga’s power to transform. Yoga not only balances our mind and body but also spreads its positive effects to those around us. As more people practice yoga worldwide, it proves to be a key tool for personal health and a source of harmony in society.
The Power of Yoga
At the IDY 2024 celebration, Amma shared her thoughts on the importance of yoga today. She explained that yoga is more than just physical exercise; it is a practice that supports physical health, calms the mind, and encourages spiritual growth. “Yoga is important to keep the body healthy and the mind free from anxiety. But a deeper understanding of yoga can help us realize our true potential and let go of the ego,” Amma said.
By practicing yoga regularly, we develop self-dependence—a state where true happiness and security come from within, unaffected by outside circumstances. Amma explained, “Yoga helps us become free from dependence on the world and teaches us to rely on our inner Self. This inner happiness and security are constant and do not change, no matter what happens around us.”
Benefits for Both Body and Mind
Amma also talked about the difference between physical and mental health, two areas often overlooked today. She noted that physical health improves with movement, while mental health benefits from stillness. This approach is especially relevant now, as modern life often reduces our physical activity while increasing mental stress.
“In today’s world, we move less but worry more, which harms both body and mind,” Amma pointed out. Yoga, though ancient, offers proven methods to improve both physical and mental well-being, making it essential for modern life.
Creating Positive Change Through Personal Practice
To demonstrate this year’s theme, Brahmacharini Shobha, Director of Amrita Yoga, led a session of simple yet powerful postures. She explained how Amma teaches that yoga and meditation begin with oneself. By focusing on our own health, we inspire others to start their journey toward self-care and awareness. This creates a ripple effect—a chain of well-being that benefits everyone.
A Call to Embrace Yoga’s Holistic Approach
The theme “Yoga for Self and Society” reminds us that yoga is not just a personal practice; it is a shared effort. It starts with personal growth and extends to community well-being. By caring for our health, we help build a healthier, more balanced society.
Amma’s teachings show that yoga is a timeless practice with answers to many of today’s challenges—like lack of physical activity and increased stress. Let us adopt this holistic approach, understanding that by improving ourselves, we can also uplift others.
Whether you are experienced or new to yoga, consider how this ancient practice can change your life and positively impact those around you. By finding peace and balance within, we become lights in the world, spreading well-being to all.
Wonderful article. I love sharing Amma’s messages about yoga and meditation. Jai Ma!