Celebrating the International Day of Yoga

This year, on June 20th, the world is pausing to honor a practice that has spanned centuries and continents: yoga. The International Day of Yoga (declared by the United Nations in 2014) reminds us that yoga is more than a physical practice; it’s a powerful way to connect with ourselves and the world around us.

It’s no coincidence that this global celebration coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. Just as the sun fuels growth and transformation in nature, yoga ignites the light within us, guiding us toward balance and renewal. From ancient traditions to modern flows, the sun has always played a central role in yoga philosophy—symbolizing life, energy, and the beauty of the human spirit.

Ready to learn why June 21st is globally dedicated to yoga? Keep scrolling to read more about the sacred nature of the International Day of Yoga!

A Brief History: From Ancient Practice to Global Celebration

Yoga’s roots run deep as it traces back thousands of years to ancient India, where it began as a holistic practice to cultivate a connection between the mind, body, and spirit. Yoga has always been more than just movement—it was a way of life meant to link us to something larger than ourselves.

One of yoga’s most cherished traditions is the Surya Namaskar, also known as the Sun Salutations, a dynamic sequence of poses that grounds us and helps to strengthen, stretch, and reenergize the body. In yoga philosophy, the sun represents the fire within—our drive, vitality, and consciousness. That’s why the Sun Salutations have long been a way to pay homage to the sun, linking our movements to the rhythms of nature. It is also used to activate the Manipura, the solar plexus chakra, which is associated with intuition, self esteem, motivation, and a sense of purpose. Sun Salutations combine breath and movement in a moving meditation that feels both grounding and expansive. 

Why June 21st? The Connection to the Summer Solstice

The summer solstice is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This year the sun will reach its highest point in the sky on June 20th at 10:41am. For centuries, cultures worldwide have recognized the solstice as a time to honor the power of the sun and the promise of new beginnings.

For yoga practitioners, the connection is especially vibrant. The International Day of Yoga celebrates this rich heritage and the wondrous power of the practice. Recognizing the importance of both the practice and the astronomical event, in 2014, the United Nations chose June 21st to celebrate the International Day of Yoga (although the solstice sometimes falls on the 20th or the 22nd), forever linking yoga’s timeless wisdom with the sun’s life-giving energy. This is a time to remember that yoga’s wisdom has always been there—ready to help us find our balance, reconnect to our breath, and step into the light.

How Midtown Yoga Celebrates

At Midtown Yoga, we believe the sun’s energy is meant to be celebrated every day—and in every flow. That’s why you’ll find Sun Salutations woven into almost every class we offer (except, of course, in our MY unwind classes, where rest is the ultimate ritual). It’s our way of honoring the light within and helping us connect with the sun’s energy. 

This year, we’re taking the celebration beyond the studio and into the summer air! Join us for two special outdoor classes on the International Day of Yoga:

🌞 At North Hills: Flow with Daniela on the North Hills lawn at 8am while DJ Mark sets the vibe with live beats! Stay for post-class snacks, fresh coffee from Jubala, and personalized nutrition advice from expert Registered Dietitians at Loop Nutrition.

🌞 At UHILL: Join us on the UHILL green at 9:30am for an all-levels flow led by Kathryn, complete with post-flow snacks, personalized nutrition advice from Loop Nutrition’s Registered Dietitians, and Triangle Coffee House to fuel you up after class!

No matter where you roll out your mat, hold space for yoga on June 21st and allow yourself to find your flow, honor the sun, and let your inner light shine. 🖤