National YogaFit Day is on September 25 and is a holiday celebrating physical and mental fitness through yoga. Yoga is an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice originating from India. The word ‘yoga’ is derived from Sanskrit and it literally translates to joining or uniting, which symbolizes the union of body and consciousness. There are two general theories on the origins of yoga. The linear model posits that yoga has Vedic origins, which is reflected in Vedic literature. This model also holds that it influenced Buddhism. According to author Edward Fitzpatrick Crangle, this model is mainly supported by Hindu scholars. The synthesis model, however, holds that yoga is a synthesis of indigenous, non-Vedic, and Vedic elements. The synthesis model is favored in Western scholarship.
History of National YogaFit Day
There is no consensus on the origins or chronology of yoga other than its development in ancient India. Speculations about yoga began to emerge in the early Upanishads of the first half of the first millennium B.C., as expositions also appeared in Jain and Buddhist texts between 500 B.C. and 200 B.C. During this time, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism were taking shape; teachings were received as sutras, and a philosophical system of “Patanjali Yogashastra” began to emerge.Yoga satellite traditions began to develop in the Middle Ages having surfaced among educated Western public elites during the mid-19th century. The Vedas, which are the only texts preserved from the early Vedic period and codified between 1200 B.C. and 900 B.C., contain references to yogic and other such practices primarily related to ascetics and on the fringes of Brahmanism. According to the Rig Veda’s Nasadiya Sukta, yoga was an early Brahmanic contemplative tradition. There are mentions of breath control techniques and vital energies in the “Atharvaveda” and in the “Brahmanas,” which is the second layer of the Vedas, composed between 1000B.C. to 800 B.C.Yoga and other aspects of Indian philosophy came to the attention of the educated Western public during the mid-19th century, and N. C. Paul published his “Treatise on Yoga Philosophy” in 1851. Swami Vivekananda, who was the first Hindu teacher to advocate and disseminate elements of yoga to a Western audience, toured Europe and the United States in the 1890s.
National YogaFit Day timeline
There are mentions of yoga in Buddhist and Jain texts.
“The Vedas” are written.
N. C. Paul publishes his book “Treatise On Yoga Philosophy.”
The first yoga teacher to advocate yoga to Western audiences tours the United States and Europe.
National YogaFit Day FAQs
What is the purpose of yoga?
The main purpose of yoga fitness is to improve strength, balance, and flexibility. Slow movements and deep breathing increase blood flow and warm up muscles while holding a pose helps to build strength.
Does yoga require flexibility?
One of the most popular yoga myths is the belief that one needs to be flexible before ever setting foot on a mat. However, the truth is flexibility is not a prerequisite.
How often is yoga necessary?
It is purported that yoga is best when practiced between two and five times per week.
National YogaFit Day Activities
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Practice yoga
Do some yoga. Practice fitness as a way to celebrate National YogaFit Day!
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Research yogic history
Do some research and educate yourself on the origins of yoga and yogic teachings.
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Share on social media
Join the conversation on social media with the #NationalYogaFitDay hashtag.
5 Fascinating Facts About Yoga
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Yoga is thousands of years old
Yoga has existed for well over 5,000 years.
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The meaning of the word
Yoga is a word originating from Sanskrit and means ‘union.’
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One of the oldest disciplines
Yoga is one of the oldest disciplines in the world.
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It was originally a healing therapy
Yoga was originally practiced as a means of healing therapy but later expanded into a full discipline.
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Yoga came to the West
Yoga was introduced to Europe and the United States in the 18th century.
Why We Love National YogaFit Day
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Yoga teaches discipline
Yoga teaches discipline and tolerance to everyone who practices it. It’s nothing but beneficial.
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Yoga helps with calmness
Yoga helps individuals with calmness. Practicing yoga produces a well-rested mind.
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It is a form of all-round well-being
Yoga is a discipline that gives all-round well-being. Try it today.
National YogaFit Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | September 25 | Monday |
| 2024 | September 25 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | September 25 | Thursday |
| 2026 | September 25 | Friday |
| 2027 | September 25 | Saturday |
