Surya Namaskar Benefits for Mind and Body

Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutation, is one of the strongest yoga sequences that we do globally. It consists of 12 postures that flow into one another without interruption to synchronize breath with movement. When practiced routinely, Surya Namaskar is so much more than a workout; it is a complete system for total health.

In our busy world, many people use yoga for stress release; Surya Namaskar is one of the best ways to bring physical and mental balance to one’s life.

Surya Namaskar is intended to be done in a flow in order to stretch all of the muscle groups in the body and increase flexibility and range of motion within the joints. With practice, Surya Namaskar can help decrease stiffness and improve overall flexibility.

Surya Namaskar is an ACTIVE practice which stimulates the metabolism for calorie burning. Practicing multiple rounds of Surya Namaskar each day is almost the same benefit as a session of cardio, and assists with natural weight control.

The forward bends and backward bends in the sequence have a positive impact on circulation and provides a massage for the internal organs particularly utilizing the digestive system. Sweating during class assists with the elimination of toxins.

From plank to lunge – Surya namaskar engages core muscles, arms, legs, and back. This builds strength and promotes bone health to lower the risk of osteoporosis.

While practicing with mindful breath, Surya Namaskar calms your nervous system and decreases stress hormones. Many practitioners rely on this sequence as a natural yoga-based anti-stress tool.

The gentle flow of poses and breath calms us down to improve focus. This makes Surya Namaskar a great daily practice for students, workers and anyone trying to get their mind clear.

Regular practice develops mindfulness which can help us process emotions – leading to better balance. It provides a sense of security when things get tough.

While Surya Namaskar has compelling physical and mental benefits, it is possible that the practice imparts spiritual benefits as well. It is traditionally performed at sunrise, as an offering of gratitude to the sun for the life source it represents, and it also adds an effect of discipline, self-observance, and a profound connection to body, mind, and spirit.

Start at 3-5 repetitions a day when beginning your practice, and build up towards a 12 repetitive practice over time.

Getting out of bed in the morning and performing it on an empty stomach – is a great way to create maximum energy and renewal.

Think of the breath – breathe in when lengthening, and breathe out when contracting.

Be consistent with your Surya Namaskar position and continue daily and you will notice progress from doing only 15 minutes a day in a few weeks time.

Surya Namaskar is more than just an exercise; it is a health system. Physical strength, mental calmness, and the benefits go on.