Celebrating International Day of Yoga 2024 | Poses for elders

International Day of Yoga 2024 is celebrated on June 21, marking the 10th annual observance of this global event. As we age, maintaining physical health and mental well-being becomes increasingly important. Yoga offers a holistic approach to health that goes beyond mere physical exercise, focusing on gentle movements and mindful breathing, making it accessible and safe for older adults.

Yoga Poses that are Safe and Helpful for Elders

The Healing Walk

Walking with hands raised above the head and keeping elbows straight enhances internal communication, decreases neck muscle rigidity, and increases neck flexibility. This practice is particularly beneficial for managing blood pressure and ear-related issues.

Infinity Walk

Walking in a pattern of infinity promotes strength and coordination, stimulates cognitive function, and enhances balance. The Siddhohum Kriya, a special 5-step practice, is designed to harness and connect to universal energies, enhancing energy flow, mental clarity, and emotional stability.

Mindful Meditation Techniques and Breathwork

Focusing on the breath and being present in the moment can reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and promote emotional stability. Simple techniques such as deep breathing, alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana Pranayama), and guided visualization can be easily incorporated into daily routines to enhance overall well-being.

By focusing on safe and effective practices like The Healing Walk, Infinity Walk, and Siddhohum Kriya, older adults can improve their physical health, mental clarity, and emotional stability.

Yoga’s Global Recognition

Yoga, an ancient practice originating in India, is celebrated globally on June 21, 2024, as International Day of Yoga for Self and Society. The day aims to promote the harmony of mind and body, balance between thought and action, and unity of restraint and fulfillment.

The United Nations declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014, recognizing its universal appeal. The resolution was proposed by India and endorsed by 175 member states. The World Health Organization urges member states to help reduce physical inactivity, a leading cause of death worldwide and a key risk factor for non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes.

Preventing Heatstroke with Yoga

International Day of Yoga 2024 is also a day to celebrate the importance of yoga in preventing heatstroke. Heatwaves can lead to various health issues, including dizziness, heavy sweating, cardiovascular issues, asthma attacks, and transmission of infectious diseases.

Yoga teacher and Certified Nutritionist Manisha Pareek emphasizes the need to protect oneself from heatstroke, which can result in serious health issues such as dehydration, organ damage, paralysis, and even death. To protect oneself from heatstroke, yoga experts recommend several yoga poses and breathing techniques:

Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
Viparita Karani (Legs Up the Wall Pose)
Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose)
Sheetali Pranayama (Cooling Breath Technique)
Sheetkari Pranayama (Hissing Breath Technique)
Kaki Mudra (Geometric Mudra)
Chandra Bhedana Pranayama (Left Nostril Breathing)
These exercises can help cool the body, reduce excitement and anxiety, and calm the mind, making them an excellent practice during hot weather.

Yoga Events Across the United States

On International Day of Yoga, cities across the United States are set to host mass yoga events. Yoga classes are growing yearly as more individuals become interested in this age-old practise in parks, gyms, and studios.

Personal yoga trainers are in great demand, with various forms like power yoga, Iyengar yoga, hot yoga, aerial yoga, and aqua yoga. Expert instructors are emphasizing body alignment, correct postures, and mental peace, while cautioning that one must check the credentials of the trainer before signing up.

Yoga for Women Empowerment

International Yoga Day 2024, observed annually on June 21, aims to raise global awareness of the ancient practice of yoga and its benefits for physical and mental well-being. The theme for 2024 is “Yoga for Women Empowerment,” focusing on enhancing women’s physical and mental well-being.

This year’s observance highlights yoga’s importance in promoting unity, stress management, flexibility, strength, and overall health. It fosters global unity and cultural exchange, promoting inclusivity, and boosting global wellness by encouraging people to try yoga, contributing to a healthier and happier population.

Health Benefits of Yoga

Yoga, an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice, originated in India and is celebrated annually on International Yoga Day 2024. The United Nations established the day in 2014 to raise awareness about the benefits of yoga and its role in improving physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. According to The International Association of Yoga Therapists, yoga offers several health benefits:

• Decreases blood pressure: Yoga helps maintain blood pressure, especially in patients with hypertension.
• Normalizes gastrointestinal function: Beneficial for those with poor gastrointestinal health.
• Boosts immunity: Enhances the body’s immunity against various diseases.
• Improves concentration and memory: Enhances cognitive functions.
• Improves posture: Beneficial for those with postural issues.
• Increases energy levels: Beneficial for those feeling lethargic and tired.
• Decreases body pain: Provides relief for chronic body pain sufferers.