The Sun Salutation; is a sequence that has the potential to transform your personality and resonate with that of the Sun.
The most enlightening part of our issue for us to present is this segment of ancient wisdom that’s still relevant to the needs of today. This incredible segment of nani ka pitara holds a special place for HFM, as we get to rediscover and re-present our rich passed down wise legacies. This time our nani ka pitara opens up to share with you the extraordinary goodness of an incredible yoga practice of Sun Salutation, SURYA NAMASKAR.
And this time we got you a Diwali gift in this treasure chest. We have got an expert yoga Coach on board with us to give our topic some icing of expertise with her experience of more than a decade.
Meet Shynee Narang, a professional yoga teacher “ I have been teaching Yoga for 6 and half years and have been practicing for 15 years.” From being a 9-5 employee, back in 2007 to becoming a yoga teacher her journey has been self-transformative, and now she is sharing her hard-earned wisdom with others.
She shared a very wise belief, “ I’d say, I didn't choose yoga rather yoga chose me. I believe it is the result of good karma of an individual, that Yoga comes into their life.”
We have got some questions on your behalf and our expert, Ms Shynee is here to feed your curiosity.
What is Surya Namaskar
Surya Namaskar has its roots in ancient Indian culture, where the sun was revered as a powerful deity. The practice is believed to date back over 2,000 years, with references found in early texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. Traditionally, Surya Namaskar is performed at dawn to greet the sun and harness its energy for the day ahead.
The sequence consists of 12 dynamic postures, it is a harmonious blend of fluid movements that connect breath with movement, fostering both physical strength and mental clarity. Each posture is thoughtfully arranged to create a balanced sequence, enhancing energy flow and promoting overall vitality. The sequence is designed in such a manner that it ends where it started.
Surya namaskar is a Sun Salutation as the name suggests. This combination is specialized in activating all the energy centers of the body. After practising it you feel naturally energized.
What is Surya Namaskar?
Surya Namaskar has its roots in ancient Indian culture, where the sun was revered as a powerful deity. This practice, believed to date back over 2,000 years and referenced in texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, is traditionally performed at dawn to greet the sun and harness its energy for the day. The sequence comprises 12 dynamic postures, creating a harmonious blend of fluid movements that connect breath with motion, fostering physical strength and mental clarity. Each posture is carefully arranged, enhancing energy flow and promoting overall vitality, culminating in a return to the starting position.
Benefits of Surya Namaskar
The benefits of this practice are extensive. It enhances energy levels, aids digestion, supports weight loss when performed at a controlled pace, strengthens the spine, and improves immunity, stamina, and metabolism. Regular practice of Surya Namaskar can transform your energy and positively influence your personality. If you often feel lethargic, this sequence can work wonders.
The Origin of Surya Namaskar
The origins of Surya Namaskar are steeped in legend. One popular story attributes its design to Lord Hanuman, who, while worshipping his guru, Lord Sun, sought to embody the Sun's qualities and values. By offering daily salutations, he gave rise to the name "Sun Salutation" or Surya Namaskar. This practice is intended to receive the sun's energy, allowing practitioners to reflect the qualities and values of the Sun in their lives.
The Dos and Don'ts
To perform Surya Namaskar safely and effectively, it is essential to prepare your body properly. Two types of warm-ups are recommended in yoga: Suksham Vayam (subtle exercises) and Sthool Vayam (intense exercises). Engaging in both warm-ups is crucial before this core workout.
Surya Namaskar harnesses the sun's energy, so if you are feeling anxious, agitated, or overheated, it's best to avoid the sequence, as it may exacerbate these conditions. Practicing on an empty stomach is advisable, and women on their periods should refrain, as it can increase body heat. Pregnant women should practice under guidance. Ideally, perform Surya Namaskar at sunrise or sunset and adjust the number of rounds based on the season—fewer rounds in summer and more in winter.
What are the Ideal no. of rounds of Surya Namaskar?!
Everyone’s body is different and the same no. Of rounds are not ideal for all. It is not always beneficial.
Let’s understand this with Ayurveda; according to the ayurveda, there are 3 body types, vatta, pitta & kapaha. Every body type has some inbuilt resistance and acceptance. Here we are talking just in the context of Surya Namaskar.
Vatta's dominant body has predominant air and space elements, so a slow pace and 3-5 rounds are suggested.
Pitta's dominant body has predominant fire and water elements, already so much body heat present there, so, a medium pace and 5-8 rounds are advisable.
Kapaha's dominant body had pre-dominant earth and water elements, these bodies are comparatively cold and less active, and a good pace and 10-12 no. of rounds are very much beneficial for them.
If you wish to know about your body type, you can consult a Yoga expert for that.
The other most prevailing topic is 108 rounds of Surya Namaskar; Many people say we don't need other exercises if we do 108 rounds of Surya Namaskar. It is not true. It is not necessary for everybody, and on the contrary, if you are a pitta or vatta dominant body 108 can be dangerous for you. So, just for the sake of the ‘trend’ don’t ruin the calm of your body.
If you feel energized and awake; keep going. But if the feelings are, nauseous, breathless, uneasy, or heated, just stop then and there & limit the pace and rounds. Tune in with the body, and know what it is saying. And, consult an Ayurvedic expert to help you know.
Incorporating Surya Namaskar into your daily routine is simple and rewarding. Many practitioners start their day with this invigorating sequence, using it as a ritual to set a positive tone for the hours ahead. Even a few rounds can provide a boost of energy and clarity.
So, whether you seek physical vitality, mental clarity, or spiritual connection, the ancient practice of Surya Namaskar offers a path to wholeness, inviting us to honor the sun and, in turn, our own radiant selves.
