Surya Namaskar – Sun Salutation Asana
It is a combination of 12 postures and each posture provides its unique benefits. The essence of this asana is salutation of the Sun god, which is the power source of all the energy in this world. So in the process to salute the sun god it also helps our body. This asana becomes very important due to the valuable part it plays with our lives. The composition of these poses in its own different way helps in creating a fit and fine body for you.
In a gym, a cardio would include aerobics, skipping, and running, jogging and cycling. By doing Ashtanga Namaskar you will be able to derive all the benefits you try to obtain by going to the gym. When you look at the flip side, the gym would turn out to be more expensive in comparison to your yoga pose.
It readily flexes your body by providing one of the greatest massages to your each and every curve in your body. In the process of internal massaging it also works out externally. Your body becomes the incubation ground for generating the power source to your body. It also helps in the purification process of your body.
It becomes very beneficial to the heart, as it tones it immensely to help the cardiac muscles and arteries. Every step of this asana turns out to be one beautiful gift for your body. The synchronized way of breathing helps you to push out those toxins which are harmful for your body. The 12 poses have to be done in a specific manner. It includes a process of inhaling and exhaling which has to be followed strictly. Along with the poses you can chant some of the Mantras which may help to create synergy in your body.
The meditating mind creates awareness about the existence of the world. Your mind overflows with confidence which you have been lacking for a very long time. The mind and body works together to help your soul to lighten up, which is very easily shown on your radiating face.
This exercise is not only about being physically fit but about creating an understanding about the inner chakras. It is the concentration level which helps this pose to attain its success. The particular mantra which is chanted along with the pose helps in creating that sense of concentration.
This is an elaborate asana and doing this would need lots of practice. So people who have good stamina, with no health problems like blood pressure, heart disease, hernia, intestinal tuberculosis and many other problems can do this pose. So anyone attempting the asana should consult your doctor and your yoga instructor.
1. Pranamasana (prayer pose)
Normal Breathing – Om Mitraaya Namaha
Benefits: Many of your waist and skin problems would be rectified by doing this asana as it adds passion and vigor to your pose which also helps your legs. Mind achieves control due to the standing pose. It helps in developing distinct personality due to the meditation techniques. Calmness surrounds you which will grant you that level of balance within yourself.
2. Hasta Uttanasana (Arch your back)
Inhale-Om Ravaye Namaha
Benefits: This Arch back position helps in your digestion due to the toning of the abdominal organs. In the abdominal organs it tones the lungs as well as the spinal nerves. This is very good for people who are overweight as it helps in reducing that excess baggage you happen to carry everyday.
3. Pada Hastasana (Toe touch)
Exhale – Om Suryaaya Namaha
Benefits: If you are suffering from any abdominal problems this is one of the best ways to escape from it. It is a very simple solution to such a problem. It also helps you to remain flexible as it helps to tone your body because it makes your spine supple helping your back get toned properly too. Any problems with your feet and fingers are also corrected.
4. Ashwa-sanchalan-asan (Horse pose)
Inhale – Om Bhaanve Namaha
Benefits: The process of this pose helps in stretching each and every muscle of your body which helps in the proper functioning of your body. Problems like constipation can also be resolved. As there is stretch on the neck muscles it helps with your thyroid glands.
5. Parvatasana (Downward facing dog pose or Mountain pose)
Exhale – Om khagaaya Namaha
Benefits: This asana helps in creating a strong set of arms and shoulders. The muscles are also strengthened which in return tones the spinal nerves for a flexible back. In the modern times you will find more and more obese people interested in learning yoga. This asana is good to reduce your bulging waist line, which tends to be the main problem for many.
6. Ashtanga Namaskar – (Push-up pose)
Hold breath – Om Pooshney Namaha
Benefits: This pose is known as the salute to the sun with eight parts of your body. Your hands, legs, chest and feet work in synchronization to provide the actual benefit for your body. It helps in developing your chest muscles as it is also known as the push-up pose.
7. Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)
Inhale – Om Hiranayagarbhaaya Namah
Benefits: This asana is very useful to keep your back in the fittest position. The spinal region becomes strong and very agile. This asana helps in creating a healthy circulation for your back. It tones your body as well as the spinal nerves. Your digestion is improved. It tones your liver as well as massages the kidneys. The male and female reproductive system improves. Irregular menstrual cycle problems are rectified too. With the increasing blood circulation your face gives a radiant look.
8. Parvatasana
Exhale – Om Mareechibhyoh Namaha
Benefits: This asana is the same asana you do in the No.5 position i.e Parvatasana. Like a mountain it helps in strengthening your arms and shoulders. Your back gets toned due to the elongation of the spine. This is a very good asana for people with bulging bellies as well as increasing waist-line. Any problem with the abdomen is also improved.
9. Ashwa-sanchalan-asana
Inhale – Om Adityaaya Namaha
This asana is the same asana you do in the No.4 position i.e Ashwa-sanchalan-asana. This pose is very useful for massaging your internal organs for better functionality. Your leg muscles are strengthened creating a proper balance. It affects your mind too as it helps it to remain calm and stable. Throat problems can be erased by regular exercise.
10. Pada Hastana
Exhale – Om Savitre Namaha
Benefits: This asana is the same asana you do in the No.3 position i.e Pada Hastana . Having problems with your feet or finger? This asana helps you correct it quickly. Your stomach and your digestive system are free from any complication. The bending of your torso helps your chest to broaden. Arms and hands become stronger too.
11. Hasta Uttanasana
Inhale – Om Arkaaya Namaha
Benefits: This asana is the same asana you do in the No.2 position i.e Hasta Uttanasana. The lifting and stretching of the arms helps the muscles in your arms. Your shoulder becomes strong and flexible. Your digestion improves as it tones the lungs while stretching. It is a good remedy to remove excess weight. This improves your vision tremendously.
12. Pranamasana
Exhale – Om Bhaaskaraaya Namah
Benefits: This asana is the same asana you do in the No.1 position i.e Pranamasana. This position clams your nerves as it eases your body and lets you have a sense of balance.
Ashtanga Namaskar asana ends with the same asana as we had started with i.e Pranamasana.
Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautions while attempting to perform any of the asanas. If you are suffering from any health problems consult your doctor and your yoga instructor before trying the asanas.
Good Luck!
Shop at Tony’s
Yoga Equipment Store