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Yoga Day 2024: Every year on June 21, International Yoga Day provides a worldwide forum for promoting awareness of the numerous advantages of yoga practice. The emphasis of this year's theme, "Yoga for Self and Society," is on the benefits of yoga for promoting both social harmony and personal well-being. But did you know that Lord Shiva is regarded as the first Yoga Guru and the source of many yoga traditions? Shiva represents the balancing and soothing power of all yoga techniques. 

All of the dhyana yoga asanas, both known and undiscovered, are linked to Lord Shiva and are based on his postures. The Sanskrit word "Yuj," which means "to unite," "to yoke," or "to join," is where the word yoga originates. Yoga is a kind of spiritual practice that aims to balance the mind and body. Leading a healthy life is both an art and a science. 

Lord Shiva As The Source Of Yoga 

Lord Shiva is one of the major Hindu gods. Known as the Adi Yogi, he is revered by his devotees as the embodiment of yogic perfection and the one who has contributed yogic science to humanity. The ultimate awareness underlying the cosmos, Lord Shiva, is the first person to be examined if one wants to learn about and comprehend the beginnings of yoga. All of the many yoga asanas, both known and undiscovered, are linked to Lord Shiva and are based on his postures. He is typically observed with animals surrounding him in the Padmasana (Lotus Pose). Even the way he dances as Nataraj is a reflection of different yoga poses. 

Numerous representations of Lord Shiva show visible signs of total yoga expertise. His third eye, the wisdom eye, is open on his forehead, yet his eyes are partly closed in concentration. His brow has a crescent moon, a sign of wisdom and mystical perception. The Kundalini energy that is inside each of us is represented by the snake that is coiling around his neck. The Ganges River spilling out of his matted hair is a sign of perpetual cleansing.

Lord Shiva Imparted Knowledge Of Yoga To Saptarishis 

It is believed that Lord Shiva initially taught yoga to his wife, Goddess Parvati. He later taught the science of Yoga to seven Rishis, who then taught the rest of humankind for the benefit of everyone. These seven were referred to as the Saptarishis, who introduced yoga philosophy to humanity. 

Lord Shiva is depicted as being in a constant state of meditation. (Image Source: Canva)

In order to propagate the practice of yoga, Lord Shiva descended to Earth and took on the form of an Adiyogi. According to a legend, Lord Shiva was an Adiyogi who would devote much of his time to practising multiple forms of yoga, such as breathing techniques, meditation, and postures. The great individuals known as the Saptarishi were adept in a variety of religious and spiritual disciplines. The Saptarishi went to Lord Shiva and asked him to instruct them in the practises and art of yoga. Following their attainment of yoga mastery, each Saptarishi journeyed to various regions of the world to impart their wisdom to others.

ALSO READ: Yoga Day 2024: 7 Spiritual Benefits Of Yoga And Meditation For Mental Peace

Rudraksha And Yoga

Rudraksha is known is known to have originated from Lord Shiva’s tears. During meditation, wearers of the Rudraksha mala - particularly monks and yogis have reported experiencing extraordinary levels of calm, mental control, and focus. Rudraksha leads one towards spirituality and instils joy, serenity, and success. 



(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert from the relevant field.) 

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