January 7th, 2023 • By: Sara Wafia
Translated from the Sanskrit term surya namaskara, sun salutation is a movement of linked asanas that awaken the mind-body system. An essential sequence of vinyasa yoga, sun salutations is the easiest way to prepare your mind and body for the day ahead. It rejuvenates, empowers, and enhances physical stability. The benefits of sun salutations can be enjoyed by those just starting their journey with yoga while being a fundamental practice of the most devoted practitioners.
“With every asana we do, if linked with the breath, we are connecting ourselves to the universal cosmic energy.” - Dr. Pratima Raichur
While intended as a sunrise ritual to fully harness the power of the sun’s glowing energy, performing this flow whenever you wake up will still offer profound benefits. Aim for anywhere from 6-12 flows, and always be mindful of your breath.
4 Key Benefits of Yoga's Fundamental Morning Flow
1. Sun Salutation is a Life-affirming Ritual
It improves circulation, oxygenates and purifies the blood, stimulates the endocrine system, activates all 7 chakras, and balances the five doshic energies of air, space, water, fire, and earth.
2. Sun Salutation is a Full-body Workout
This exercise strengthens the core, awakens the muscles, improves coordination, and aligns the spine. Regular practice opens the lungs, activates the digestive system, and revitalizes the entire body.
3. Sun Salutation Invokes the Life-force Energy of the Sun
When performed at dawn, as intended, sun salutations warm and revitalize the entire body, enhancing our innate immunity. It increases strength, flexibility, and receptivity.
4. Sun Salutation is for Everyone
Regardless of skill, this powerful flow can be performed by anyone in its full or modified form. It balances the entire physical, energetic, and mental body.
12 Poses of Sun Salutation
Most yoga experts align on 10-12 asanas, or poses, to complete one full sun salutation, with many poses familiar to beginner-level vinyasa. The asanas of sun salutation are:
- Pranamasana (Prayer)
- Hastauttanasana (Raised arms)
- Hastapadasana (Standing forward bend)
- Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Equestrian)
- Dandasana (Stick)
- Ashtanga Namaskara (Salute with eight parts)
- Bhujangasana (Cobra)
- Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward facing dog)
- Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Equestrian)
- Hastapadasana (Standing forward bend)
- Hastauttanasana (Raised arms)
- Tadasana (Mountain)
Elevate Your Practice with Aromatherapy from PRATIMA Skincare
Before You Begin: Anti-Stress Aroma Oil
Apply this tranquil elixir to your pulse points and inhale deeply to transport you to a state of peace and calm.
After You Finish: Ratrani Rose Replenishing Mist
Refresh the face and body with a few spritzes of this energizing tonic that uplifts the spirit and awakens the mind.