Yoga: Scientific Wisdom for Health, Harmony, and Humanity
Yoga has gained growing global interest due to its ability to treat various internal health conditions, often at minimal cost or even for free. When practiced regularly, it can eliminate the risk of many diseases. Millions worldwide have benefited from this field of study.
In today’s world, yogic science holds more value than ever before. Despite the advancements in science and technology that can both create and destroy, there’s an increasing need for awareness about life itself. A deeper understanding can foster the realization that every being shares a part of the same existence.
If humanity embraces unity and the deeper essence of life through yoga, it could bring significant positive changes globally. A shift in perspective—towards simplicity and connection—may be the key to solving many of the world's complex problems.
Yoga is a tool for well-being and spiritual growth. It brings together a stress-free mind and a healthy body. The essence of yoga lies in uniting with love, compassion, and non-violence. Its inner and spiritual orientation could become a treasured inheritance for future generations.
Yoga: Cultural Legacy and Shared Heritage
Yoga is a part of our shared cultural legacy. Although Nepal and India are independent nations, their spiritual heritage—ranging from Hindu scriptures, epics, gods, goddesses, to pilgrimage sites and ancient sages—is deeply interconnected and revered equally.
While there have been past efforts to introduce yoga globally, these efforts have been limited. However, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly emphasized the global relevance of yoga during his visit to the United Nations, leading to widespread recognition.
Today, nearly 200 countries observe International Yoga Day, including Islamic nations such as Saudi Arabia and Iran, which have adopted it at the national level. This international embrace calls for gratitude toward ancient sages and the enduring values of Sanatan Dharma, which has offered the world the gifts of yoga, non-violence, vegetarianism, and spiritual wisdom.
Yoga as a Science of Health and Existence
Yoga is not based on blind faith. Like mathematics and science, it is a system built on practice and proof. It is a science of ultimate health and a philosophy of the infinite. While our existence may be finite, the cosmos is boundless.
Yoga helps us experience this infinity through unity. The Sanskrit root of yoga means “to join.” Patanjali (circa 184–185 BCE) compiled the Yoga Sutras, yet the practice predates him. The idea of oneness between the self and the cosmos originated in India and later spread across cultures.
Yoga—known globally as “yoga” instead of the native “yog”—has grown in influence and recognition. Its adoption by various nations underlines its universal relevance. Among the six ancient Indian philosophical systems, Yoga stands alongside Mimamsa, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Sankhya, and Vedanta. The roots of Buddhism and Jainism also stem from this philosophical lineage.
The Connection Between Solar Energy and International Yoga Day
June 21 was chosen as International Yoga Day because it marks the longest day of sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere. This date symbolizes the abundance of energy that sunlight offers, and energy is a central aspect of yoga.
Yoga means to connect—to enhance energy by aligning with others. But connection is not enough; direction and harmony are also essential. If energies align in different directions, they dissipate. True connection only happens when energies move in the same direction. This is the deeper science behind yoga’s practice.
Yoga’s Core Goal: Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Energy Alignment
The main goal of yoga is to elevate human energy—physical, mental, and spiritual—to its highest potential. This requires alignment of purpose and unity of movement.
Yoga unites the body, mind, and soul toward a single point of focus. Each of these energy centers often moves in different directions. Yoga brings harmony among them by synchronizing breath (prana) with the mind.
As a result, individuals gain strength in all aspects—body, mind, and spirit—and experience better overall health. Mastery over these three dimensions enhances not only the quality but also the quantity of output. This is the link between solar energy and yogic principles.
Ancient and Modern Roots of Yoga Practice
While Patanjali is credited with formalizing yoga, its roots go deeper. The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad contains detailed discussions on breath control, suggesting an earlier understanding.
Our ancestors developed yoga to calm a restless mind. Modern medical science blames lifestyle as the root cause of most diseases, and yoga presents a holistic solution.
Yoga is not only our heritage; it is a matter of national pride. For the unemployed youth, yoga can offer a dignified path forward. Working in this field with respect is far more meaningful than struggling abroad for temporary financial gain.
Universal Values of Yoga Beyond Religion
Yoga transcends religious boundaries. Language, clothing, water, land—none of these belong to a single faith, and neither does yoga.
On December 11, 2014, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution recognizing yoga as a holistic approach to health and well-being. It stated that yoga could significantly benefit the global population.
Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon described yoga as a unique harmony between thought and action, adding that it promotes peace and development. He urged all member countries to support its promotion.
Scientific Recognition of Yoga's Benefits
Numerous international studies and universities have confirmed the benefits of yoga. Research indicates that it strengthens the nervous system, reduces stress, and promotes mental well-being.
In May 2012, the Medical Hypotheses Journal, published by Boston University’s School of Medicine, reported that yoga can help reduce trauma-related stress. It energizes the vagus nerve—the core of the central nervous system.
Similarly, Harvard University also concluded through studies that yoga is highly effective in preventing and treating health conditions.
A Shift in Mindset: Yoga as an Inner Solution
Modern thinking often assumes that problems are solved externally. In contrast, yoga teaches that healing begins from within.
Yoga helps establish physical and mental balance, making illness less likely in the first place. This approach focuses on prevention rather than treatment.
It offers a low-cost way to achieve wellness and can serve as a powerful support for underprivileged communities. As a part of Sanatan Dharma, yoga can also represent a form of soft power through meaningful cultural heritage.
