City of Redlands proclaims June 21 as International Yoga Day

Redlands, a city in California declares June 21 as International Yoga Day. / Image - CoHNA

Mayor Eddie Tejeda of Redlands, a city in San Bernardino County, California has officially proclaimed June 21, 2024, as International Yoga Day, in the city recognizing the ancient Hindu practice for its contributions to mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. The proclamation, signed last week, highlights yoga's origins in ancient India and its aim to unite the body, mind, spirit, and universal consciousness. It noted the formal recognition of June 21 as International Day of Yoga by the United Nations and the art’s 300 million practitioners globally. According to the proclaimayuon, approximately 10 percent of the U.S. population engages in yoga, supported by nearly 49,000 yoga and Pilates studios nationwide. In 2017, yoga was declared the most commonly used complementary health practice among U.S. adults, known for reducing stress, increasing flexibility, improving productivity, and enhancing overall health. The proclamation notes yoga's Hindu origins and its emphasis on achieving a balanced life through daily mental and physical well-being practices. It also highlights the tendency of yoga practitioners to live sustainably, eat healthily, and volunteer in their communities. The practice's roots in mutual respect for all faiths that make it accessible and welcoming to people worldwide adhering to the ancient Hindu tradition of sharing knowledge, was also acknowledged by the proclamation. “The City Council of the City of Redlands does hereby proclaim June 21, 2024, as International Yoga Day in the City of Redlands and urges all citizens to enhance their general wellbeing and establish a connection with their body and mind through the art of yoga,” reads the proclamation. The Coalition of Hindus of North America, celebrated this achievement, hailing it as a testament to ancient Hindu practices. “Thank you City of Redlands, and Mayor Eddie Tejeda for your Proclamation honoring and celebrating June 21, 2024 as International Yoga Day. A beautiful moment and ceremony,” the Coalition said in a post on X. “This is a great way to recognize the rich history and traditions of yoga and the widespread impact of this ancient #Hindu practice. Congratulations to CoHNA member Roop Goyal, as well as the instructors from Art of Living Foundation and Heartful Institute and members of the Hindu community in Redlands for securing this honor,” CoHNA further added.