Surya Namaskara is a series of yoga asanas comprehending a total of twelve postures (including repetitions) performed in flow. They provide a alternate backward and forward bending exercise, flexing and stretching the spinal column and limbs of the body. But Surya Namaskar can be considered more than just and exercise of the body. As per its name Surya means Sun and Namaskara means Salutation, then Surya Namaskara is the practice of Sun Salutation.
It is know that many ancient cultures from immemorial times adored and worshiped the sun. Many ancient traditions had incorporated various solar symbols and deities, but in the Vedic Culture this traditions have been preserved till these days and, in fact, sun worship is still practiced as a daily ritual in many parts of India today.
Before presenting you the 12 postures of Surya Namaskara bear in mind the following: (i) only practice it alone if you are completely health; (ii) first try to become familiar with the postures individually and then after as a whole; (iii) while performing the sequences, synchronize the breath with the movements by inhaling with each backward bending and expansion of the chest and exhaling with each forward bending and compression of the abdomen; (iv) do not repeat the practice so many times in the beginning, starting with 2 repetitions and increasing it up to 10, gradually, in few weeks, is enough for the maintenance of health for the average man; (v) at last but not the least, try to bring bhava (feelings) to the practice, performing it slowly, preferably at the early hours of the morning, facing towards the east, along with the rising sun.
It is know that many ancient cultures from immemorial times adored and worshiped the sun. Many ancient traditions had incorporated various solar symbols and deities, but in the Vedic Culture this traditions have been preserved till these days and, in fact, sun worship is still practiced as a daily ritual in many parts of India today.
Before presenting you the 12 postures of Surya Namaskara bear in mind the following: (i) only practice it alone if you are completely health; (ii) first try to become familiar with the postures individually and then after as a whole; (iii) while performing the sequences, synchronize the breath with the movements by inhaling with each backward bending and expansion of the chest and exhaling with each forward bending and compression of the abdomen; (iv) do not repeat the practice so many times in the beginning, starting with 2 repetitions and increasing it up to 10, gradually, in few weeks, is enough for the maintenance of health for the average man; (v) at last but not the least, try to bring bhava (feelings) to the practice, performing it slowly, preferably at the early hours of the morning, facing towards the east, along with the rising sun.
So here they are:
Pranamasana (Prayer Pose)
Hasta Utthanasana (raised arms pose)
Padahastasana (hand to foot pose)
Ashwa Sanchalanasana (equestrian pose)
Parvatasana (mountain pose)
Ashtanga Namaskara (salute with eight parts)
Bhujangasana (cobra pose)
Parvatasana (mountain pose)
Ashwa Sanchalanasana (equestrian pose)
Padahastasana (hand to foot pose)
Hasta Utthanasana (raised arms pose)
Pranamasana (prayer pose) Keep health and enjoy your practice of Surya Namaskara. Keep in touch for more yoga techniques. Namaskar :-)
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