Ministries/Departments asked to encourate employees to take Yoga Break

In preparation for International Yoga Day on June 21, the government has instructed central government employees to take a "Y Break" during office hours to relieve stress through yoga. A recent office memorandum from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), dated June 12, stated that officials can now practice a short-duration yoga routine called YBreak@Workplace, specifically designed for their office chairs, to refresh, de-stress, and refocus.

Originally developed by the Ayush Ministry, the Y Break program has incorporated new features from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga in Delhi. The Y Break protocol consists of a series of "light" practices that can be completed in just a few minutes. Designed by experts in the field, the protocol includes asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), and dhyana (meditation). The Ministry has uploaded four instructional videos (Yoga at Chair, Yoga for Workaholics 1, Yoga for Workaholics 2, and Yoga Break) on its website (https://yoga.ayush.gov.in/Y-Break/) to assist officials.

All Central ministries and departments have been urged to share information about the Yoga Break protocol with their employees.

In 2021, the Ministry launched the "Y-Break" mobile application, which features a simple yoga protocol including practices such as Tadasana-Urdhva-hastottanasana-Tadasana, Skandha chakra-Uttanamandukasana-Kati Chakrasana, Ardhachakrasana, PrasaritaPadottanasana-Deep Breathing, Nadishodhana Pranayama, Bhramari Pranayama-Dhyana.

This module was initially introduced in January 2020 as a pilot project in six major cities. The Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, in collaboration with six prominent Yoga Institutes, conducted a 15-day trial that attracted 717 participants from both private and government organizations.

According to the government's Citizen Engagement Platform, MyGov, yoga has become one of the most trusted methods for enhancing physical and mental well-being. The term "yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root "yuj," which means "to join," "to yoke," or "to unite," representing the unity between mind and body, thought and action, restraint and fulfillment, harmony between humans and nature, and a holistic approach to health and well-being.

The United Nations General Assembly has designated June 21 as International Yoga Day. In its resolution, the UNGA acknowledged that yoga offers a comprehensive approach to health and well-being, promoting a balance across all aspects of life. The widespread dissemination of information about the benefits of yoga practice is considered beneficial for the global population's health. This declaration marked the beginning of a holistic health revolution, where greater emphasis was placed on prevention rather than cure, as highlighted by the portal.