Surya Namaskar

Sun Salutation

The king of all asanas or postures,  this 12 step yoga technique  works directly on  the  energy flow through the entire human body.  On a physical level, Surya Namaskar will tone the body, working on the strength and flexibility, bring health to all organs and body systems. Mentally, it brings tremendous peace of mind and focus, taming the rajas, or the restlessness in the body. Above all, it prepares the body and mind to access the inner potential energy, the Bliss which is our true nature. Surya Namaskar is designed to access the etheric energy all around us. When performed facing the East in the first rays of the morning sun along with the appropriate breathing technique and Surya Namaskar Mantra, the effect on the individual mind, body and spirit is incomparable!

 

Instructions

Step 1: Stand on your Yoga mat and start with the Yoga Mountain Pose. This is standing up straight with your palms together in prayer position. Exhale.

Step 2: As you Inhale, raise your arms straight overhead and arch your back slightly.

Step 3: Exhale and then bend down forwards keeping your legs straight and touch your feet with your hands.

Step 4 A As you Inhale , step the right leg back, arch your back and lift your chin.

Step 5. Exhaling, step the left leg in line with the right leg and create an ‘A’ shape with your body by keeping your legs and back straight.

Step 6. Retaining the breath, lower your knees, your chest and then your forehead, keeping your hips up and toes curled under.

Step 7. Inhaling, stretch forward and bend back. Keep your arms straight.

Step 8. Exhaling, curl your toes under, press down into your heels, and lift your hips creating an ‘A’ shape like step 5.

Step 9. As you inhale, bring your right leg forward, with the top of the foot stretched out flat on the floor, and lift your chin.

Step 10. Exhale and then bend down forwards keeping your legs straight and touch your feet with your hands. (repeat step 3)

Step 11. As you Inhale, raise your arms straight overhead and arch your back slightly. (repeat step 2)

Step 12. Exhaling, come back to standing still with your legs straight and together with your arms either straight down the side of your body or place in prayer position.