EVENTS

Where to celebrate International Day of Yoga June 21

Samantha Incorvaia
azcentral sports
The second-annual International Day of Yoga will be celebrated around the world on June 21.

Namaste! Yogis in the Valley and around the world will celebrate the second annual International Day of Yoga on Tuesday, June 21, and you can join in.

The United Nations General Assembly acknowledged June 21 as the International Day of Yoga on Dec. 11, 2014, after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea in September 2014.

Sadhguru, an Indian yogi, mystic and author, explained the importance of celebrating yoga on June 21.

“On the day of the summer solstice, Adiyogi (the first yogi) turned south and first set his eyes on the Saptarishis or Seven Sages, who were his first disciples to carry the science of yoga to many parts of the world," Sadhguru said on the event's website. "It is wonderful that June 21 marks this momentous event in the history of humanity.”

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Last year, India set two Guinness world records on the inaugural International Day of Yoga. The country claimed the record for the largest yoga class, with about 35,000 people, and the largest number of nationalities at a yoga event, with about 85 countries represented.

Where you can take part

The Valley will host a handful of events in honor of the 5,000-year-old practice. Visit idayofyoga.org for more information.

Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center

Four yoga classes will be open to members and non-members. Start at 9:30 a.m. with Yoga Flow, or take part in Restorative, Gentle or Power Yoga later in the day. To register, call 480-481-7015 or email healthandfitness@vosjcc.org.

Details: 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, June 21. 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Free. vosjcc.org.

Yogini's

Join a silent meditation and yoga class. Registration is not required. Bring a yoga mat, towel and plenty of water, and arrive 15 minutes early to secure a good spot.

Detail:.5-6 p.m. Tuesday, June 21. 3312 N. Third St., Phoenix (inside Toolbox Dance Studios in the Lexington Building). $5. 602-908-3808, yoginis.co.

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Indo-American Community Center

The center is celebrating on Saturday, June 25, with the family-friendly International Day of Yoga, Arizona There are nine sessions to choose from including meditation, talk sessions and Kriya yoga. Try any or all of them. Bring the kids and they will have their own teacher. All participating children will receive gifts. Bring your yoga mat for this event led by certified instructors. Register online.

Details: 9-11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 25. 2809 W. Maryland Ave., Phoenix. Free. idyaz.org.

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