International Yoga Day is celebrated every June 21st. Proclaimed by the United Nations, it aims to raise awareness about the benefits of yoga, a practice that promotes the union of body and mind.
What is Yoga?
"The word YOGA means union. It is the union of mind, body, and soul."
- Georgina Salmón, General Manager of Gebesa Laguna.
"In 2014, India's Prime Minister Modi proposed the creation of a day dedicated to yoga at the United Nations General Assembly. One hundred seventy-five member states of the UN approved this initiative. June 21 was chosen as it coincides with the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere," mentioned Georgina Salmón.
"Yoga is considered a heritage for humanity. There are many types of yoga, and it depends on each person to choose the right practice according to their physical condition, age, and health status. The practice must be consistent and helps balance the nervous system, connect with our own body, and access states of relaxation and/or meditation through our breathing."
In the workplace, yoga helps disconnect from work and care for physical and mental health. Many companies implement occupational health programs that include yoga, improving concentration and reducing stress.
"We do not use our bodies to get into yoga postures. We use yoga postures to get into our bodies."
- Jonny Kest
Georgina Salmón highlights that "Yoga is an invaluable tool in the workplace. It reduces stress, improves concentration, and fosters a healthier and more productive work environment by achieving a more balanced state for each individual. Our employees must have access to activities that promote their physical and mental well-being. We cannot be perfect or in harmony all the time, but having a practice like yoga provides us with a tool to be less reactive and more even-tempered."
Benefits of Yoga for Occupational Health
- Stress Reduction: Yoga incorporates breathing and meditation techniques that help reduce stress and anxiety. These exercises promote a sense of calm and tranquility, which is essential for maintaining a healthy work environment.
- Improved Concentration: Regular practice of yoga improves the ability to concentrate and focus, which is fundamental for productivity at work. By reducing mental noise, employees can approach their tasks with greater clarity and efficiency.
- Flexibility and Strength: Yoga helps improve posture and strengthen muscles, which is vital for those who spend long hours sitting at a desk. This can prevent musculoskeletal problems and promote better overall physical health.
- Increased Energy: Through the combination of physical exercises and breathing techniques, yoga can increase energy and vitality levels. This is especially useful for combating work fatigue and maintaining a high level of performance throughout the day.
- Mental Health Improvement: Yoga benefits not only the body but also the mind. It helps improve mood and combat symptoms of depression and anxiety, promoting a positive and resilient mindset.
Incorporating Yoga in the Workplace
Incorporating yoga in the workplace can be simple and highly beneficial. Here are some general ideas to get started:
- Active Breaks: Encourage employees to take short breaks during the day to get up and stretch. These regular breaks help reduce muscle tension and improve circulation, keeping employees more alert and productive.
- Guided Stretching: Offer guided stretching sessions that employees can follow. These can be brief routines of 5 to 10 minutes that can be done next to the desk, focusing on areas like the neck, shoulders, and lower back.
- Online Resources: Provide access to online yoga and stretching videos. This allows employees to practice at their own pace and at a time that is most convenient for them.
- Reminders and Signage: Place visual reminders in the office that encourage employees to move. These can include posters with stretching exercises or reminders in task management software to take stretch breaks.
Tools and Resources for Practicing Yoga
Yoga has become increasingly accessible thanks to the tools and resources available in the digital world. Here are some options to practice yoga effectively and guided:
Apps and Technology
- WHO mYoga by WHO: The World Health Organization has launched this free app that offers a collection of videos and audio files to guide yoga practice.
- Streaming Platforms: Some streaming platforms specializing in wellness and physical exercise content also have sections dedicated to yoga, where you can find live and recorded classes for all levels.
Celebrating International Yoga Day every June 21st reminds us of the importance of integrating yoga and why it should be included in our work routines. Companies can implement yoga programs through active breaks, guided stretching, and digital resources. By doing so, they not only improve the physical and mental health of their employees but also create a more harmonious and efficient work environment.
Written by:
Georgina Salmón, Karina Orozco, and Michelle Reyna.
