Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) is an All-In-One Yoga practice, which is an ultimate source of Life and Energy. You must have heard of it, but Surya Namaskar is a combination of eight different Asanas (Yoga Postures) which has a number of benefits on keeping you Fit and Healthy. I read an article today about two old aged couple (94 and 92 years old) who have managed to do Surya Namaskar 108 times every day. This prompted me to write this article.
Surya Namaskar, is in a way a salutation performed to the Sun, offering gratitude and love for the immense energy that it provides to the universe. It is said that the Sun represents Energy, Power and Vitality. According to Nadi Shastra, the Surya Nadi or the Sun Channel runs along the right side of our body. You don’t have to attach any religious connection to Surya Namaskar but think as an ultimate tool to keep you fit and healthy.
Benefits of doing Surya Namaskar
- Helps in Weight Loss
- Strengthens Muscles and Joints
- Improves Your Complexion
- Better functioning of the Digestive System
- Helps combat Insomnia
- Ensures regular Menstrual Cycle
- Eliminates Frozen Shoulders
- Stretching of Spinal Cord and Abdominal Muscles
- Massaging of Internal Organs
- Improved flexibility of the Hip Joints
- Stimulates the Manipura Chakra
- Improves balance in the Nervous System
- Reduces Blood Sugar Levels
- Reduces Stress levels
- Tones the Entire body
- Improves Digestion and reduces Constipation
- Eliminates Stomach Ailments
- Promotes balance between both sides of the body
How and When to do Surya Namaskar
Surya Namaskar particularly has to be done either during the Sunrise or Sunset but it is Ok to do during other times as well if you cannot find time during these timings. It is very much important that Yoga Procedures must be done on Empty Stomach and especially the Surya Namaskar.
Breathing is very important while doing Surya Namaskar and it must be coordinated with your Yoga Postures. Inhalation and Exhalation are to be done in a prescribed manner. Therefore it is absolutely necessary for you to find a good Yoga Instructor who can guide you to achieve the Breath Control while doing Surya Namaskar.
Surya Namaskar contains a total of eight Asanans built into a sequence of 12 steps for Right and Left Sides (each) and one must start Surya Namaskar with the Right Side.
Children, Adults and even the Old Aged can do Surya Namaskar both men and women including.
Disclaimer: Yoga must be taught properly and done in the guidance of an experienced Yoga Practitioner at least in the beginning. Otherwise it can be harmful to you as you may not be following the correct breathing techniques as well as postures. So, never attempt to do Yoga Practices just by watching a Video or reading a Book. Also, those who have long-standing bone or muscular issues, please consult with your Doctor and Yoga Practitioner about which all postures you can do safely.
