Today is International Yoga Day, created by a resolution of the UN General Assembly in December 2014. June 21 was chosen because it’s a recognized transition day in many world cultures, as well as the start of summer on the longest day in the Northern Hemisphere (winter on the shortest day in the Southern Hemishpere).

International Yoga Day is a global celebration of unity between body, mind, and spirit. The theme for 2025 is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”.

For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, it is the perfect time to align our yoga practice with the Fire element in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It’s a season of joy, expansion, and expression – but also one where heat can lead to restlessness and burnout if not balanced. Yoga offers a beautiful way to harmonize and balance this Fire energy. By focusing on heart-opening poses, cooling pranayama, and calming practices, we can stoke the fire within—without letting it consume us.

How you can include International Yoga Day in your day:

Try a 10-Minute Flow: pick what works for you today
Choose a few gentle stretches like Cat-Cow, Downward Dog, and Child’s Pose. Practice a sun salutation at sunrise or sunset. Try some heart openers such as: Camel Pose, Cobra, Bridge. Sink into some yin relaxation to nourish the heart meridian.

Take a few minutes for Breathwork: you’re breathing anyways

Sit in stillness and observe your breath. Take a few minutes to center yourself with deep belly breathing. Practice cooling pranayama such as Sheetali or alternate nostril breathing.

Find a few minutes for Reflection: yoga is also about mindset

Write down or say aloud three things you’re grateful for today. Offer gratitude to your body for all it carries. Meditate on joy or loving-kindness. Wind down with a guided meditation before sleep.

Share Yoga with Someone: even if it’s yourself.

Invite a friend to join you in a class, do partner stretches, or just share what yoga means to you. Write a note in your yoga journal. What does – today, June 21, summer, Yoga Day,  or the weather mean to your journey?

Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to the mat, today is the perfect opportunity to recommit to your well-being. Step outside. Feel the earth under your feet. Inhale deeply. Let each breath anchor you in the present moment.

Posted in Yoga