Surya means sun and namaskar salutation. Worshipping the sun has been an ancient practice. Yoga too has a beautiful ritual to pay homage to the sun god in the form of Suryanamaskar or Sun Salutation. Suryanamaskar consists of a combination of 12 graceful postures in sequence of a physical drill. These 12 dynamic poses are the 12 zodiac signs, or the 12 months of the year. The 12 hours of the day and 12 hours of the night, constituting a complete day, form one cycle of Suryanamaskar. Thus alternate legs must be used in the performance of Suryanamaskar. Suryanamaskar is a complete yogic practice as asanas, mudras, mantras and pranayamas are all practised while performing it. Considering the fast pace of modern living, it is a complete sadhana or meditation, thus making it easier for individuals to practise yoga for their betterment.

The spiritual awakening resulting in the awareness of body-mind harmony is an ideal antidote to stress — the curse of our modern lifestyle. Suryanamaskar can be easily integrated into our daily lives as it requires under 20 minutes to obtain fast and beneficial results. It can be done after sunrise or at sunset. So one must face the east or the west depending on the hour of the day.

An open, clean place is enough to practice Suryanamaskar, though one must have an empty stomach to do it comfortably. Most beginners will discover and experience stiffness in their bodies at first. Stiffness and lack of co-ordination can all be overcome through practising Suryanamaskar slowly. Regular practice will help make the body more flexible. The postures should be synchronised with breathing. Once this is done, Suryanamaskar will seem less awkward and difficult. Beginners can start with breathing relaxation to get into the mood to do it well.

Technique

Stand with feet slightly apart, arms relaxed by the sides, eyes closed, inhaling, exhaling normally as you become aware of the whole physical body. Like a torchlight on the body, awareness highlights the depths of physical layers. Once relaxed, there is a flow of vital energy through the whole body. This is a signal to commence Suryanamaskar.

Benefits

Suryanamaskar stimulates the spine, making it strong and flexible.

Toning the entire physical and mental body is another welcome aspect that is achieved.

Reactivation of the entire body system is the third.

Suryanamaskar is very effective in toning the muscles of the body, massaging the nerves, loosening the joints and allowing body fat to melt generously with ease.

Reach Meera, yoga therapist, Solace, at t2@abpmail.com