A recent survey conducted by the Ministry of AYUSH reveals that over 41% of respondents have incorporated Yoga into their lifestyle. This significant adoption rate comes after a decade of the United Nations' declaration of June 21st as the International Day of Yoga (IDY). The survey, encompassing 30,084 households across 34 states and Union Territories, highlights the increasing integration of yoga into the daily routines of many Indians.
The survey titled "Impact Assessment of a Decade of International Day of Yoga (IDY): Survey Findings," indicates that 24.6% of respondents reported improved fitness levels as a direct result of practicing yoga. Furthermore, 16.9% experienced a reduction in stress levels, and approximately one-fourth claimed to have gained valuable health knowledge through their yoga practice. These findings underscore the multifaceted benefits of yoga, extending beyond physical fitness to include mental and emotional well-being.
Dr. Raghavendra Rao, Director of the Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy (CCRYN), clarified that the 11.2% of respondents who practice yoga regularly are those who attend yoga classes and sessions consistently. However, the broader adoption of yoga, reflected in the 41% figure, includes individuals who incorporate yoga in various forms, such as bhakti yoga (prayer), meditation, and self-guided practices aimed at calming the mind.
The survey data also reveals interesting demographic trends. Yoga practice is more prevalent in urban areas, with 12.6% of urban respondents practicing regularly, compared to 10.4% in rural areas. Gender-wise, 11.6% of regular practitioners are male, while 10.7% are female, indicating a relatively balanced adoption across genders. Awareness about yoga is highest among young adults aged 18-24. However, when it comes to consistent practice, those aged 65 and above lead with a 17% share, suggesting that older adults are more likely to integrate yoga into their daily routines. Notably, 36.2% of respondents with existing health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and gastric issues, also practice yoga, highlighting its potential therapeutic benefits.
The Ministry of AYUSH has been actively promoting yoga through various initiatives. These include campaigns via print and electronic media, organizing AROGYA fairs at national and state levels to raise public awareness, and providing financial assistance for seminars and workshops. Moreover, the Ministry has launched schemes for voluntary certification of yoga professionals and has also introduced yoga training programs for police personnel. These efforts align with the government's broader vision to integrate traditional medicine with modern healthcare.
The rise in yoga's popularity is also evident in the various events and initiatives surrounding International Day of Yoga. The Ministry of AYUSH has been organizing IDY celebrations successfully, garnering worldwide support. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the importance of fitness in daily life and praised initiatives like IDY. To mark the 10th anniversary of IDY, the ministry has planned ten signature events, including Yoga Sangam, Yoga Bandhan, and SamYogam, aimed at expanding the reach and impact of yoga both nationally and globally.
Yoga's integration into the lifestyle of a significant portion of the population reflects a growing recognition of its holistic benefits. Regular yoga practice can improve physical health and flexibility, reduce stress and promote mental clarity, enhance emotional balance, and foster a stronger mind-body connection. It can also improve sleep quality, increase energy levels, and promote better self-care. With continued efforts from the Ministry of AYUSH and increasing awareness among the public, yoga is poised to play an even greater role in promoting health and well-being in the years to come.
