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Today marks the 9th International Day of Yoga, a day designated by the United Nations in 2014 to raise awareness worldwide of the health benefits of yoga. This ancient system of wellness originated in India and is a core component of Ayurvedic medicine, empowering individuals to create a more refined alignment between their mind, body, and soul.
In his address to the UN General Assembly advocating for the adoption of an annual Day of Yoga, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, described yoga as
“…an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well-being. It is not about exercise but to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.”
Today, yoga is practiced around the world and continues to grow in popularity. There are over 100 schools, or types, of yoga, but all forms share similar benefits, including:
At SCU, yoga is a core component of our Ayurveda certificates and short courses, where students gain insights into classical yoga philosophies. In addition, Holly Beck, E-RYT500, YACEP, RPYT, a student worker at SCU Health, conducts weekly online yoga classes through the SCU Instagram, as well as in-person classes in the Chesney Student Center.
“Do yoga–and do it often for a calmer, more relaxed, and fulfilled, happy life.” – Holly Beck
Holly is a practitioner of Kriya Yoga, of the Sri Vidya lineage, offering a traditional practice that guides one from outer to inner-awareness through a specific formula of techniques, including Surya Namaskar (traditional sun salutes), yoga asana, pranayama, mantra, and deep relaxation.
Her yoga practice began 25 years ago “as a heavy-set youth with a fiery temperament. I was drawn into the calming internal aspects of yoga and found a natural adeptness on the mat, and began teaching yoga soon thereafter.”
Holly’s classes are designed for all levels. “Newcomers will appreciate the moderate pacing and optional modifications while experienced practitioners will perceive the subtleties of form and transition. It is my intention that each participant feels calm and relaxed after practice, and with consistency, to connect to the affirmative, strengthening, and transformational quality cultivated from within.”
Yoga is a practice that can be started at any time. “The physical, mental, emotional, and intangible aspects of yoga are inclusive and available to anyone with the discipline to commit to a regular practice,” Holly says. “I encourage new students to do yoga two or three times a week for a month to sense the impact of yoga in their lives. After a month of consistent practice one can assess beneficial shifts in the body, in relationships, careers, and so forth.”
Kickstart your yoga journey with Holly by joining on the SCU Instagram Mondays and Thursdays from 12 p.m., or by attending one of her in-person sessions at the Chesney from 12:10-12:45 p.m. Upcoming in-person dates are June 28 and July 26, 2023. Instagram sessions are recorded and available to watch at any time following the live class.
Whether you are new to the mat or a long-time partitioner, celebrate the International Day of Yoga with a few asanas (poses) with Holly’s latest Instagram session.
“UN Adopts Proposal to Declare 21st June as International Day of Yoga.” Celebrate the International Day of Yoga. Accessed June 20, 2023. 2023.https://www.indiainnewyork.gov.in/yogaday/about.html.
“The Benefits of Yoga.” American Osteopathic Association. Accessed June 20, 2023. https://osteopathic.org/what-is-osteopathic-medicine/benefits-of-yoga/.
“International Day of Yoga: 21 June.” United Nations. Accessed June 20, 2023. https://www.un.org/en/observances/yoga-day.