Friday, August 28, 2015

Surya Namaskara - Sun Salutations


"Suryatma Jagatastasthukhascha,"

The sun is the soul of all that moves and also of all that is stable.
Surya Namaskara is a sequence of Asanas(yogic postures) that has a powerful influence on the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of those who practice it as part of their daily Sadhana.
Consisting of 12 poses it is completed as a fluid sequence which takes the body through various forward and backward bends as well as two partial inversions. Whilst these asana(physical postures) can be practiced individually, Surya Namaskara brings them all together into a dynamic and energising practice. 
There are 12 positions in the sequence and a rhythmic flow will develop with confidence and regular practice. It is said to be a very complete and rounded sequence of Yoga, activating and stimulating the mind, the body and its various energy centres(Chakras) and channels(Nadis). I have found that a regular practice brings me greater balance, confidence and energy. Over time it has opened and lifted my upper body posture.
My children find it amusing to watch and can't help themselves but to climb through and around me when I practice it in front of them.
When recently recovering from an injury, it was this aspect of my Yoga practice I missed the most.
Recommended for beginners who have tested their flexibility through some practice of Yoga, Surya Namaskara is practiced facing east, with the deliberate cultivation of a sense of reverence for the Sun and all that it gives us as individuals and as a planetary species. All life on earth is dependent on the activity and energetic action of the sun.

When we maintain Sun Salutations in our regular practice, we energise our bodies and cultivate a balanced state of consciousness and invite illumination.

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