International Day of Yoga, 21 June
Yoga for the Sustainable Development Goals
2 events will mark this year’s International Yoga Day at the United Nations

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What: Panel Discussion and Q&A Session “Conversation with Yoga Masters”

Who:

  • Mr. Jaggi Vasudev, also known as ‘Sadhguru’, Yogi, mystic , author and speaker, Founder of the Isha Foundation
  • Ms. Tao Porchon-Lynch, 97 year-old Yoga Master and activist

When: Monday, 20 June 2015, 3-5 p.m.

Where: ECOSOC Chamber, UN Headquarters, New York or live through webtv.un.org

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What: Official Commemoration of the International Day of Yoga

Who:

  • President of General Assembly, Mr. Mogens Lykketoft
  • Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information, Ms. Cristina Gallach
  • Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin, Permanent Representative of India to the UN
  • Mr. Jaggi Vasudev, ‘Sadhguru’, yoga Master who will lead a simple Yoga practice
  • The event will also include a musical incantation on Yoga by Tanya Wells, musician
  • Master of Ceremony: Ms. Nona Davuluri, Former Miss America

When: Tuesday, 21 June 2015, 1:15 – 2:15 p.m.

Where: UN Secretariat Circle, UN Headquarters, New York or live through webtv.un.org

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Background:
Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.  Today it is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity.

UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/69/131 designated 21 June International Day of Yoga. 2015 marked the first-ever observance of this Day which is aimed to raise worldwide awareness of the benefits of practicing yoga. The UN Resolution notes “the importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that foster good health.”

This year’s celebration will be marked under the theme “Yoga for SDGs” since the Sustainable Development Goals were launched in January 2016. Goal 3 (“Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages”) is particularly relevant since yoga improves physical health and general well-being. The target 3.4 specifically calls for a reduction by 2030 “by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention, treatment and the promotion of mental health and well-being.”
Other SDGs can also be seen in different aspects of the practice of Yoga. Indian Prime Minister Modi highlights not only the health benefits of the practice but also the sustainable lifestyle it promotes, leading to better harmony between people and planet.

More details about the International Day are available at:https://www.un.org/en/events/yogaday/index.shtml
More information about the Sustainable Development Goals can be found at:https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/

For UN Media Accreditation, visit: www.un.org/en/media/accreditation

Media contact
Melanie Prudhomme, UN Department of Public Information
T: 917-367-3541 / E: prudhommem@un.org

Available for Interviews

  • Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin, Permanent Representative of India to the UN
  • Mr. Jaggi Vasudev, Yoga Master (English)
  • Ms. Tao Porchon-Lynch, Yoga Master (English, French)