UN declares World Meditation Day on December 21

1. On December 6, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a resolution to officially declare December 21 as World Meditation Day.
2. India, including Liechtenstein, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Mexico and Andorra, was a member of the core group of countries that guided the adoption of the resolution titled ‘World Meditation Day’ in the 193-member UNGA.
3. The resolution recognizes the importance of meditation for improving mental health, peace, and sustainable development.
4. India’s role in promoting meditation and its connection to yoga as important practices for personal growth is a key part of this decision.

Key Points:

1. Declaration of World Meditation Day:

   1. The UNGA resolution was approved without any opposition, making December 21 World Meditation Day to raise awareness about the benefits of meditation for improving mental well-being and inner peace.
   2. The resolution was led by Sri Lanka with support from a group of countries, including India, Liechtenstein, Nepal, Mexico, Andorra, Bangladesh, and others.

2. Why December 21 Was Chosen:

   1. December 21 is the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, which symbolizes renewal, reflection, and looking inward—perfectly aligned with the spirit of meditation.
   2. In Indian traditions, this date marks the start of Uttarayana, an important period for self-reflection and meditation.
      1. Uttarayan is a Hindu festival and observance that marks the sun's transition from the zodiac sign of Sagittarius to Capricorn.
      2. It is also known as Makar Sankranti,

3. Benefits of Meditation:

   1. Meditation is widely recognized for helping to reduce stress, ease anxiety, and improve overall mental health.
   2. The resolution highlights how meditation helps to improve focus, memory, and creates a sense of peace within individuals and communities.
   3. Many scientific studies support the idea that meditation can reduce stress and improve mental and physical health.
4. India’s Role:
   1. India played a key role in supporting this initiative, as meditation is an important part of India’s cultural and spiritual traditions.
   2. The adoption of World Meditation Day is in line with India’s leadership in promoting yoga globally, with the International Day of Yoga already celebrated on June 21 since 2014.
   3. Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, explained that the resolution supports the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“the whole world is one family”), which promotes well-being for everyone.

5. Global Support and Significance:

   1. Other countries that supported the resolution include Bangladesh, Bulgaria, Burundi, Iceland, Mauritius, and many more.
   2. The resolution is part of the United Nations’ larger goals of improving health and well-being worldwide, especially through Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which focuses on promoting health for all ages.
   3. Meditation helps with mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health, and it can be a helpful tool for dealing with modern-day issues like stress, anxiety, and conflicts.

6. Events and Future Plans:

   1. The first World Meditation Day on December 21, 2024, will include activities around the world that encourage people to practice meditation and experience its benefits for mental peace and well-being.
   2. The goal of the day is to bring people together worldwide, helping them achieve mental clarity, peace, and well-being.

Conclusion:

The UN’s decision to make December 21 World Meditation Day highlights the growing importance of meditation in improving mental health and promoting global peace. India’s leadership in this initiative shows its ongoing commitment to wellness and its cultural connection to practices like meditation and yoga. This day will help people worldwide understand and experience the benefits of meditation in leading healthier, more peaceful lives.

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