Yoga and The Right to Health :International Legal Perspectives

The intersection of yoga and health rights has received increasing focus in recent years as worldwide health efforts shift towards incorporating holistic and preventive approaches to well-being. Originating as an ancient Indian practice encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual
elements, yoga has moved beyond its traditional confines to become a widely acknowledged method for enhancing health and wellness across the globe. This paper explores yoga from the
perspective of international legal frameworks regarding the right to health, as articulated in significant documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 25), the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Article 12), and the WHO Constitution. The incorporation of yoga into health policies, notably through initiatives like the International Day of Yoga established by the United Nations in 2014, reflects an increasing
global acknowledgment of its ability to enhance public health. This paper examines how various countries are implementing yoga in their public health strategies, particularly concerning the prevention of non-communicable diseases, mental health support, and rehabilitation efforts.
The article also critically explores issues such as cultural appropriation, standardization, and disparities in access, prompting inquiries about the fair achievement of the right to health through interventions based on yoga. It also tackles legal discussions regarding the commercialization of yoga and rights related to intellectual property. This study promotes yoga as a cultural heritage and a valuable asset for public health, encouraging policies that are inclusive and based on rights, with the goal of improving the healthy life towards the yoga practice as a means that the global legal obligation helps to high standards of health for every individual. The paper concludes by proposing suggestions for the incorporation of yoga into both global and national health legislation and policies in a way that is respectful of culture and legally consistent.