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International Day of Yoga 2026: Expert explains why yoga is essential for physical and mental health

Know how yoga supports better mental and physical health, improves flexibility, reduces stress, and boosts overall wellness on International Day of Yoga 2026.

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Written By: Muskan Gupta | Published : June 21, 2026 8:25 AM IST

Every year on June 21, people across the globe celebrate the International Day of Yoga. Millions of people all over the world are doing yoga to enhance and boost their physical and mental health, whether they are in a park, school, office, or in their homes. As more individuals seek to promote their overall health in a natural and simple approach, yoga remains a growing trend in 2026.

What is yoga and why is it important?

Yoga is a very ancient practice which involves physical exercise, breathing and mindfulness. With its many physical and mental health benefits, it has increasingly been recognized as one of the most trusted wellness practices around the world over the years.

Dr. Bala Raja Sekhar Chandra Yetukuri, Sr. Consultant Neuro & Spine Surgeon and Clinical Director Advance Endoscopic Spine Surgery at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad says, Yoga is a very popular practice and therefore the efficacy of yoga on overall health becomes evident.

Dr. Yetukuri prescribes yoga to his patients as a combination of exercise, breathing techniques, and mindfulness, and considers the body and mind as a team.

Benefits of yoga for physical health

Improving flexibility, strength and balance is one of the primary reasons that people are making the switch to yoga. It also benefits the heart and can reduce the chances of lifestyle diseases like hypertension and diabetes, which is a result of regular yoga practice. Yoga is not just about hardcore exercise routines; it may be delicate and suitable for all ages.

Can yoga help with chronic pain?

In addition, Dr. Yetukuri says that yoga benefits people with chronic pain. If practised correctly, "gentle yoga" can help ease discomfort and enhance movement in individuals with chronic pain, he says.

The second benefit is that everybody is able to begin yoga. For the beginners, they can start with basic sessions and at a gradual pace develop their practice with the help of a certified teacher. Yoga is not necessarily an expensive exercise and you do not need to join a gym to get in the habit of practicing the exercises, thus making it available to people around the world.

Important precautions before starting yoga

But experts caution as well. Individuals who have any health issues like old injuries and surgeries, or other health issues should seek advice from their doctor prior to starting yoga. It is important to perform the correct postures with the proper guidance to prevent strain and injury.

International Day of Yoga 2026 message

International Day of Yoga 2026 is just as straightforward as it was the previous year, yoga is not only exercise, it is a better way of life. Yoga remains an ever popular practice for millions of people around the world, with an increasing number of people becoming interested in using it to promote prevention and mental health.

Yoga, which has a history of benefits to physical fitness, mental peace and overall wellbeing, is helping people lead healthier and more balanced lives all over the world.

Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.