The date for this feast was proclaimed in December 2014 by the UN General Assembly which passed a resolution to that effect, sponsored by India. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon commented on the decision: “The General Assembly has brought attention to the holistic benefits of the ancient practice on health and well-being in the modern world.” Ban noted also: “Yoga is a sport that can contribute to development and peace. Yoga can even help people in emergency situations to find relief from stress.” According to the resolution, all UN members are welcome to celebrate the new memorial day in accordance with national traditions, so as to improve their residents’ knowledge of the benefits of yoga. The birthplace of this spiritual and health-enhancing practice is already preparing for the feast, with mass yoga sessions taking place in many Indian cities. Pictured: Indian women and men perform the Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutation, during a morning yoga session in New Delhi. This health-enhancing practice is growing more popular by the year in Ukraine as well. To popularize yoga, free master classes will be held in the park areas and sports clubs of Lviv, Cherkasy, and other cities throughout the day.
