UN-recognised day highlights role of meditation in mental well-being
KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 21
World Meditation Day is being observed worldwide today. The United Nations has officially recognized December 21 as World Meditation Day through a General Assembly resolution adopted in December 2024.
The day aims to raise awareness about the benefits of meditation for mental and physical health, recalling the right of everyone to the highest attainable standard of well-being.
In Nepal, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology is hosting a special programme at Sainik Manch, Tundikhel, while group meditation sessions and discussions are being held at Brahmananda Saraswati Gram in Dakshinkali and other locations. Various organizations are also marking the day with awareness and practice programmes.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged meditation, particularly mindfulness practices, as an effective self-care tool for managing stress, anxiety and enhancing overall well-being.
Meanwhile, Nepal recently hosted a special side event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on December 19 to mark the second World Meditation Day. The event, titled "Awakening the Mind: Pathways to Peace, Health, and Harmony," was co-hosted by Nepal's Permanent Mission to the UN and the Jeevan Vigyan Foundation.
Speakers at the event highlighted meditation's role in promoting inner peace, emotional resilience and conscious leadership, noting Nepal's contribution to advancing the global recognition of meditation and yoga rooted in ancient traditions.
