24/06/2025
Why Do Yoga? Reflections on International Day of Yoga 2025 and Its Relevance for Liberia
As a yoga instructor trained at the Vinyasa Yoga Academy in Rishikesh, India, and committed to bringing yoga to Liberians through Yogaify Studio, I am often asked, “I already exercise, why do yoga?” This is a common and important question. The answer lies in yoga’s unique blend of physical movement, breath control, and mindfulness—benefits that conventional exercise alone cannot fully provide.
While activities like running or weightlifting build strength and cardiovascular health, yoga enhances flexibility, balance, and core strength all at once. More importantly, yoga activates the body’s “rest and digest” mode, reducing stress hormones, lowering blood pressure, and fostering mental clarity and emotional resilience. Its gentle postures stimulate internal organs, improving digestion and immunity, while breathwork and meditation promote deep relaxation and self-awareness. Yoga is a holistic practice that nurtures mind, body, and spirit, complementing any fitness routine and supporting lasting well-being.
Yoga means “to unite” in Sanskrit—a union of mind, body, and spirit. It is an ancient science of healthy living that teaches balance, mindfulness, and compassion. Recognizing yoga’s universal value, the United Nations established June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014, encouraging people worldwide to embrace this practice for health and harmony.
At the heart of this observance is the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP)—a 45-minute sequence of postures, breathing, and meditation developed by India’s Ministry of AYUSH. The CYP makes yoga accessible and safe for all ages and backgrounds. This year, Yogaify Yoga Studio proudly led the CYP session at Monrovia City Hall, demonstrating local leadership in promoting wellness.
Liberia’s communities, still healing and growing, can greatly benefit from yoga’s holistic approach. Daily yoga can:
Strengthen physical health and immunity,
Build mental resilience against stress and trauma,
Foster social unity and community connection,
Encourage environmental mindfulness in line with “One Earth, One Health.”
Yogaify Studio has introduced yoga to organizations like Lonestar Cell MTN and Miss Liberia contestants, taught enthusiasts at Invincible Park and the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex, and partnered with the Indian Embassy to conduct the Common Yoga Protocol also in 2023. These efforts make yoga accessible and transformative in Liberia.
The annual observance of the International Day of Yoga is a powerful reminder of yoga’s global significance, but its true benefits come from daily practice. By embracing yoga and the Common Yoga Protocol year-round, Liberians—and people everywhere—can nurture their health, strengthen communities, and contribute to a healthier planet.
Yoga is more than exercise; it is a path to unity, balance, and well-being. With leaders like Yogaify Studio, this path is open to all seeking harmony in body, mind, and spirit.
Let us carry the spirit of International Day of Yoga beyond the mat and into our everyday lives—for ourselves, our communities, and our world.
Lisa White
CEO, Yogaify Studio
