Although the 2018 Winter Olympics are behind us, we’re still in awe of the talent and passion showcased, not only by our American athletes but by all of the international athletes competing this year. The hard work and determination that these individuals put into their craft is nothing short of mind-blowing, and we’re feeling so inspired by their gifts that we’ve decided to take a look at yoga all around the world and commemorate our favorites with a series of special yoga pose cookie designs.

Afterall, with Olympic athletes like Hope Solo (goalkeeper of the US women’s soccer team), Evelyn Stevens (US cyclist), Rebecca Soni (US swimmer), Ariana Kukors (US swimmer), and Rebecca Bross (US gymnast) incorporating different forms of yoga into their training regimen, how could we not? So let’s take a few minutes to acknowledge yoga’s international popularity…

Countries all over the world have adopted yoga in some form or another over the years, and it’s no wonder due to its rich history and countless benefits.

Yoga doesn’t discriminate – Because yoga doesn’t have any religion or dogma attached to it, anyone can incorporate yoga into their daily life without contradicting any other aspect of their beliefs or lifestyle. In this way, yoga is uniquely positioned to bring people of all different backgrounds together. Yoga – the great equalizer!

It’s science – Countless studies have been done that prove there are overwhelming mental, emotional, and physical benefits of yoga. No matter where someone lives in the world, nobody is immune to stress, anxiety, and inflammation, all of which yoga has been proven to help with. So regardless of where you’re from, you can realize the benefits of practicing yoga.

Gaining clarity – In addition to the many health benefits of practicing yoga, many individuals, from everyday people to professional athletes talk about the clarity and focus their yoga practice has brought them. It’s no wonder, so many Olympians incorporate yoga into their training regimen.

International appeal – Yoga has become such an integral part of so many countries’ cultures that in 2014, the United Nations declared June 21st International Yoga Day. This may not seem like such a big deal because there are so many international holidays and observances. However, when you consider that 177 of the world’s 195 countries celebrates International Yoga Day, its impact becomes a bit more obvious.

Inner and outer peace – Because the foundations of yoga promote peace and harmony both within ourselves and externally, it’s easy to see why so many individuals seek to incorporate it into their daily lives. With so many people from all different countries, religions, and backgrounds practicing yoga, we can only hope that this sense of peace and harmony will bring us all a little closer together.

So the next time you’re looking to show your appreciation for your international friends, or if you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate the next Olympics keep your yoga practice in mind and commemorate your experience with your very own internationally themed yoga pose cookies.

Did you get any good ideas from this article? Share it with a friend who might want to geek out on some international yoga trivia. Want to try baking international yoga themed cookies? Get your set of yoga pose cookie cutters here.