Surya Namaskar: The Sun Salutation Pose
Surya Namaskar, also known as Sun Salutation, is a popular practice in yoga. It is a sequence of twelve poses that are performed in a particular order and are linked with the breath. Surya Namaskar is a complete workout for the body, mind, and spirit. The practice of Surya Namaskar involves paying homage to the sun, which is considered the source of all energy and life.
The Origin of Surya Namaskar
The origins of Surya Namaskar can be traced back to ancient India. It is believed that the practice of Sun Salutation was developed as a way to honor the sun as a symbol of life and vitality. The practice was also performed as a physical exercise to build strength, flexibility, and endurance. Over the years, Surya Namaskar has become an integral part of yoga practice and is practiced by millions of people all over the world.
The Benefits of Surya Namaskar
There are numerous benefits of practicing Surya Namaskar. Some of the key benefits are:
- Improves flexibility and strength
- Increases blood circulation and oxygen supply
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Improves digestion and metabolism
- Helps in weight loss
Regular practice of Surya Namaskar can also help to improve overall health and well-being. It is a complete workout for the body and can help to improve physical and mental health.
How to Perform Surya Namaskar
Surya Namaskar is a sequence of twelve poses that are performed in a particular order. The poses are linked with the breath, which makes the practice rhythmic and meditative. Here are the steps to perform Surya Namaskar:
- Step 1: Stand at the front of your mat with your feet together and your hands in prayer position.
- Step 2: Inhale and lift your arms up overhead, palms together.
- Step 3: Exhale and bend forward, bringing your hands to the mat beside your feet.
- Step 4: Inhale and step your right leg back into a lunge, keeping your left foot forward.
- Step 5: Exhale and step your left foot back into plank pose.
- Step 6: Lower your body down to the mat, keeping your elbows close to your sides.
- Step 7: Inhale and lift your chest up into cobra pose.
- Step 8: Exhale and lift your hips up into downward facing dog pose.
- Step 9: Inhale and step your right foot forward into a lunge, keeping your left foot back.
- Step 10: Exhale and step your left foot forward to meet your right foot.
- Step 11: Inhale and lift your arms up overhead, palms together.
- Step 12: Exhale and bring your hands back to prayer position.
It is recommended to practice Surya Namaskar early in the morning, facing the sun. It is also important to practice the poses with awareness and proper alignment.
Conclusion
Surya Namaskar is a powerful practice in yoga that can bring numerous benefits to the body, mind, and spirit. It is a sequence of twelve poses that are linked with the breath and are performed in a particular order. Regular practice of Surya Namaskar can help to improve flexibility, strength, blood circulation, and overall health and well-being.
So, why not start your day with a few rounds of Surya Namaskar and experience the benefits for yourself?