Today, June 21 is International Yoga Day and the world over it is an explosion of asanas as groups converge at maidans, historical sites, open spaces and indoor classes to prove that they have the courage of their contortions.

Yoga's exponential popularity is a welcome one. The obvious benefits of physical exercise, like better health parameters, anti-ageing, strength improvement and flexibility are the tangible benefits of yoga, or any physical exercise for that matter. Yoga though goes beyond that, with its lure being the mental aspect. It improves overall mental health, is conducive to calmness, is a de-stressor and for those inclined, the spiritual aspect is also part of its beneficial takeaways.