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Reviewed June 2024
Yoga is an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice. The word ‘yoga’ is derived from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness. Although yoga originated in India more than 5000 years ago, it is widely practiced in diverse forms worldwide.
Yoga is one of the most simple and efficient ways to exercise mindfully and boost your health, mind, and body. For those who want to reconnect and find a sense of purpose and joy in their everyday lives, yoga is the most natural, non-intrusive and holistic path to well-being.
Yoga was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016.
Read on with Wego to know more about International Yoga Day, why we celebrate it and the most recommended yoga destinations around the world.
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What is International Yoga Day?
A decade ago, on 11 December 2014, the United Nations recognized the universal appeal of yoga. Since 2015, International Yoga Day has been celebrated every 21 June. The day aims to raise global awareness of the many benefits of practicing yoga.
International Yoga Day on 21 June also commemorates the summer solstice, the longest day in the year in the northern hemisphere.
There are several different yoga practices, from beginner to expert levels. Regular yoga practice provides mental clarity and helps relieve stress and overall physical well-being. On this day, people sign up for yoga and listen to relaxing music or attend yoga retreats offered at wellness centers around the world.
International Yoga Day 2024 date
The tenth annual International Day of Yoga will be observed on June 21, 2024.
International Yoga Day 2024 theme
This year, International Yoga Day will be celebrated under the theme “Yoga for Women Empowerment.” The event aims to promote Yoga worldwide, with a special emphasis on Women’s Empowerment and well-being.
Best places in India to visit for yoga lovers
If you are a yoga enthusiast looking to visit some of the best yoga destinations, here are some of the best ones in India:
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh is one of the most favored destinations for yoga lovers and is also called the ‘Yoga capital of the world.’The rich cultural and spiritual history Rishikesh has with Yoga adds to the serenity brought forth by its location and allows one the perfect setting to connect with one’s inner voice and learn and practice yoga.
Home to a community of reputed yoga gurus, most of the yoga ashrams in Rishikesh offer other courses in addition to yoga training.
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Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad is a serene, charming hill station that is scenic and a good place to practice yoga and meditate. Its proximity to Bangalore makes it a more accessible yoga retreat location, and its mountainous location amidst lush greenery makes it an ideal place to connect with yourself, relieve stress and enhance mind-body balance.
You can experience the finest of ancient Indian traditions, such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Meditation, and Kalari, at the numerous esteemed yoga centers here.
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Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
The historic town of Varanasi, or Kashi, is not only a religious site but also an important yoga destination in India. The town on the left bank of the Ganges is home to several religious sites and famous ashrams with esteemed gurus who conduct traditional yoga classes.
Various styles of yoga are practiced here, including Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Iyengar Yoga and many other modern variations.
There are also modern yoga studios at Varanasi for those who want to non-classical and dynamic yoga poses.
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Auroville, Tamil Nadu
Yoga enthusiasts visit Auroville to unwind and deepen their spiritual peace. Nestled away from the busy city, the relatively newly built quaint township of Auroville provides a getaway from the mundane by allowing you to experience a unique way of life. You can attend yoga workshops that offer energizing yoga in the mornings and relaxing meditation with hatha yoga practices in the evenings.
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Mysore, Karnataka
The majestic city of Mysore is known as the birthplace of various types of Yoga, including modern yoga and Ashtanga. It is the perfect destination to visit if you want to learn and practice yoga sutras, back bending, Shatkriya, Hatha and Pranayama.
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Gokarna, Karnataka
A popular tourist destination, Gokarna attracts nature lovers and pilgrims from all over. You can go on an adventurous trek in the mountains and enjoy the lush green fields, alluring beaches, and mystical waterfalls. For a spiritually inclined journey, you must visit the ‘temple town’ known for its yoga practices, where you can learn many forms of yoga such as Vinyasa, Hatha, Iyengar, Kundalini, and aerial yoga with variations.
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Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
For mountain lovers, Dharamshala is the best place to be! Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dharamshala has the most breathtaking and picturesque landscapes that are a perfect setting for yoga. You can enroll yourself for the drop-in sessions, week-long courses, or even the intense yoga classes offered there.
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Goa
Maybe this tropical paradise of India is not the first thing you imagine when you read the word Yoga; however, Goa is quickly gaining popularity among yoga lovers and enthusiasts for the renowned schools and retreats.
The dancing palm trees against the yellow sandy beaches create the perfect scene for you to feel tranquility and look within and take breaks in between to swim and sunbathe.
The yoga retreats in Goa offer yoga and meditation, as well as ayurvedic treatments, massages, and reflexology.
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If you need help deciding where to go this International Yoga Day to escape the mundane and step into tranquility, check out our detailed article on Top 10 Highly Acclaimed Yoga Retreats in India.
