Yoga has been part of our ancient culture. It means “to unite with the self” or “become one.” Yoga helps to unite the body, mind, and breathe synchronously. Surya Namaskar is an important aspect of the practice of yoga.
Surya Namaskar, also called Sun Salutation is an ancient yogic practice of paying respects to the sun. Seven different postures or Asana are done cyclically into a specific 12 steps pattern in a Surya Namaskar. It is known to be an effective cardiovascular workout and has a greatly positive impact on the human body and mind.
This routine is generally considered to be a morning practice which is to be performed at dawn. The sequence of asanas or poses stimulates all organs, systems, muscles, and chakras. Among other health benefits of Surya Namaskar, it is also said to cultivate stillness and concentration of the mind.
Studies suggest that regular Surya namaskar helps in decreasing cortisol levels in the body, it also inhibits the limbic system which may eventually help people with depression.
Dr. Nikhil Yadav, MBBS MD, CCEBDM
Surya Namaskar is done in 12 steps or poses in a sequential manner as mentioned below:
Pranamasana (1st & 12th pose), Hasta Uttanasana (2nd 7 11th pose), Hastapaadasana (3rd &10th pose), Ashwa Sanchalanasana (4th and 9th pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (parvatasana (5th and 8th pose)), Ashtanga Namaskara (6th pose), Bhujangasana (7th pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana/ Parvatasana, Ashwa Sanchalanasana, Hastapaadasana, Hasta Uttanasana, and Pranamasana.
Regular practice of Surya Namaskar offers a number of health benefits:
Surya Namaskar can be done at any time of the day. However, the best time to do Surya Namaskar is at sunrise as exposure to the sun activates our solar plexus.
As Surya Namaskar involves full-body movements and stretching, it helps to shed the extra fat from your body. Some clinical studies have shown that Surya Namaskar is effective in weight loss.
Surya Namaskar improves the blood supply to the scalp that provides adequate nutrition to our hair. This ultimately prevents hair loss. Increased blood circulation to the skin has anti-ageing effects and helps to maintain healthy and young skin.
We should practice Surya Namaskar regularly to experience its amazing health benefits. It is advised to do it under the supervision of a trained yoga teacher or consult your doctor if you have any medical condition. There are several benefits of Surya Namaskar that can affect an individual physically and psychologically.