Yoga and Climate Action

Ranjan K Baruah

(With inputs from UN publications and the Ministry of Ayush. The writer can be reached at to bkranjan@gmail.com)

It is a welcome sign that International Yoga Day was observed globally yesterday with the required zest. We are aware of the importance of yoga even as many of us may not practise it regularly. Yoga is important as it helps our body and mind become more productive and positive. The concepts and practices of yoga originated in India thousands of years ago. Its founders were the great saints and sages. The science of yoga and its techniques have now been reoriented to suit modern needs and lifestyles. Experts in the various branches of medicine, especially modern medical science, are realizing the role of these techniques in the prevention and mitigation of diseases and promotion of health.

Yoga is a discipline to improve or develop one’s inherent power in a balanced manner. It offers the means to attain complete self-realization. The literal meaning of the Sanskrit word yoga is ‘yoke’. Yoga can, therefore be defined as a means of uniting the individual spirit with the universal spirit of God. According to Maharishi Patanjali, yoga is the suppression of modifications of the mind. Types of yoga include Japa Yoga, Karma Yoga, Gyana, Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga, Swara Yoga, Kundalini, and Nadi.

Originated in India, it has reached the nooks and corners of the world. One of the important global events related to yoga is International Yoga Day, observed on June 21. It will be recalled that on December 11, 2014, the United Nations had proclaimed June 21 as International Day of Yoga by Resolution 69/131. International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide as to the many benefits of practising yoga.

The draft resolution was proposed by India and endorsed by a record 175 member-states. The proposal was first introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address during the opening of the 69th session of the General Assembly, in which he said: “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action ... a holistic approach [that] is valuable to our health and our well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.”

The resolution notes “the importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health.” In this regard, the World Health Organization has also urged its member-states to help their citizens reduce physical inactivity, which is among the top ten leading causes of death worldwide, and a key risk factor for non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes.

The theme this time is Climate Action – to generate awareness on yoga as well as climate change. The theme also tries to bring more awareness regarding action that individuals may take to combat climate change. We are already aware that climate change is bringing more questions than answers, and the Yoga Day theme has tried to empower individuals to take more action for combating climate change.

While International Yoga Day was celebrated yesterday with great enthusiasm across the world, we should remember that we, in our individual capacities, can take action for combating climate change and contribute positively to Earth – for our own sustainable future. Together we can – and we must – make a positive transformation.