First-Ever World Meditation Day: Global Focus on Peace, Well-Being

On Saturday, the world will come together to observe the inaugural World Meditation Day, a day dedicated to highlighting the profound impact of meditation on mental, physical, and social well-being.

This global celebration stems from a resolution passed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on November 29, 2024.

India’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations organized a special event at the UN Headquarters in New York to mark this historic day. A global meditation session, led by Indian spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, served as the centerpiece of the event.

Known for his work as the founder of the Art of Living Foundation, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar guided participants through a meditative experience designed to promote mental peace and global harmony.

Themed “Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony”, the event aimed to underline meditation’s role in fostering inner calm and mutual understanding, with a focus on encouraging individuals to adopt meditation as a means to strengthen collective well-being.

The United Nations General Assembly’s recognition of World Meditation Day underscores the importance of meditation as a solution to modern challenges, including stress, social disconnection, and mental health concerns. The initiative aims to promote awareness about meditation’s ability to enhance mental resilience, physical health, and societal harmony.

Meditation, deeply rooted in Indian traditions, has evolved into a universal practice that transcends cultural, religious, and geographical boundaries.

Over centuries, it has gained global acceptance as a tool for achieving inner peace and bridging divides, making it a cornerstone of international goodwill.

Definition and Origins

Meditation is a practice that focuses on directing attention to the present moment, using techniques such as mindfulness and concentrated thought. With origins in religious and secular traditions, it is considered one of the oldest methods for personal growth and self-awareness.

Popular meditation practices include:

• Mindfulness Meditation: Observing thoughts and emotions non-judgmentally.

• Transcendental Meditation: Using a mantra for relaxation.

• Guided Meditation: Following visualizations or instructions.

• Yoga-based Meditation: Combining physical postures with meditative focus.