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International Day of Yoga (IDY), because the name implies, acknowledges the worldwide significance of yoga. The designation recognizes the practice not only as a component of the intangible cultural heritage of South Asia, but additionally as a worldwide phenomenon. Celebrated annually on June 21, the day coincides with the summer solstice.

How did International Day of Yoga change into a thing?

We’ve Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to thank for IDY. In 2014, he proposed that the United Nations officially recognize the practice. “Yoga is a useful gift from our ancient tradition,” he said during his address. “Yoga just isn’t nearly exercise; it’s a method to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world, and…nature.” Based on yoga’s popularity, its ancient tradition, and its scientifically shown effects on health, the U.N. General Assembly voted to make June 21 International Day of Yoga.

What’s the Summer Solstice?

Within the Northern Hemisphere, summer solstice is the longest day of the 12 months, which coincides with the Sun being at its highest point within the sky, offering us probably the most hours of daylight. It marks the official starting of summer. The precise moment of the solstice occurs on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at 10:58 am ET, in line with Almanac.com. It’s considered a big time astrologically because it delineates the start of one other season, each in nature and astrology, as we transition into summer and Cancer season.

RELATED: What Does the Summer Solstice Mean?

What’s the Connection Between Summer Solstice and Yoga?

Two words: Surya Namaskar. Also often called Sun Salutations, this traditional sequence was created out of reverence for the Sun and have become an integral a part of the practice of yoga. Indian sages are believed to have practiced Sun Salutations to awaken the body, align the mind, and tone and activate the Manipura, or solar plexus chakra, which is related to intuition, self worth, motivation, discipline, and a way of purpose.

Since IDY became a thing, yoga practitioners all around the world have taken the longest day of the 12 months as a possibility to get outside, practice yoga, and appreciate the Sun.

Why Do Some People Avoid Celebrating International Day of Yoga?

You could have Modi to thank for that, too. There’s concern that his conservative government is using IDY to advertise Hindu Nationalism–the concept India is a Hindu nation. While he has ensured that India receives credit because the birthplace of yoga, his Hindu-first narrative is seen as a method to exclude other South Asian groups, particularly Muslims.

How You Can Take part in International Day of Yoga Classes

Politics aside, many practitioners take the day as a possibility to have fun the community and advantages of yoga. Following are a handful of the tons of of gatherings happening all around the world in honor of the day. All times are local.

United Nations

The Everlasting Mission of India to the United Nations will host a celebration led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the North Lawn of the UN Headquarters in Latest York City.

June 21, 8 am. Free. Pre-registration is required.

Latest York

Following an International Day of Yoga celebration at Time Square, supported by the Consulate General of India, Latest York, the celebrations proceed at Waterline Square with a night of yoga classes, kids’ activities, musical performances, and a sound-healing meditation session.

June 21, 6-9 pm. Free.

Atlanta

Participate in Summer Solstice within the Park with YogaWorks instructors Ashley Lorenzo and Becky Nickerson.  The outdoor practice and concrete escape takes places at Dunwoody Nature Center within the Austin Lane area.

June 21, 9 am  Free.

Napa

Visitors to The Meritage Resort and Spa can practice yoga and meditation because the Sun sets on nine acres of vineyards amid the hills of Napa Valley. After Sunset Yoga on the Vineyard Deck you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a very good bottle of wine after your yoga session.

Wednesday, June 21, 6 pm. $35.

Philadelphia

Take an early-morning walk and yoga class in Philly’s famous Fairmount Park. Starting on the park’s Belmont Plateau, the solstice-themed guided hike will cover a half mile of various terrain. Afterward, participants will gather for a yoga class led by teachers from Tula Yoga.

June 21, 7 am. Pay what you possibly can: $15, $20, or $25.

Chicago

Practice yoga overlooking the Great Basin on the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Summer Solstice Yoga Celebration. The outdoor class is designed to be relaxing and inclusive for all levels.

Tuesday, June 20, noon. $25/$32 for nonmembers.

Bonaire

International Yoga Day and Summer Solstice event on the island of Bonaire is a free community practice at Seru Largu overlooking the capital city of Kralendijk. Yoga teachers Kelly Livingston and Miranda Roberts, each expats, offer a meditative walk followed by a sunset yoga practice on the Dutch Caribbean island.

Wednesday, June 21. 5:45 pm. Free.

Online

Michael Hayes of Buddha Body Yoga makes the practice of yoga accessible to all bodies. Starting on the summer solstice, Hayes is launching a 20-day series of online classes consisting of 5 minutes of Sun Salutations every day. The challenge is meant to familiarize students with the advantages of being in community for an everyday yoga practice.
Wednesday, June 21, $35; Yoga Journal readers receive a $10 discount using the code FRIENDS@YOGAJOURNAL at checkout.