2. ORIGINS OF YOGA’S SUN SALUTATION
The Sun Salutation, known in Sanskrit as surya namaskara. There are 17+
versions and is still practiced today as a morning ritual by many Hindu.
Because Sun Salutations, according to yogis, is not just an exercise, it
should be performed in a way that pays homage to the sun, not just for its
physical benefits.
Traditionally people practicing Sun Salutations face the sun while making
this gesture of praise and thanks.
It is also common for people to practice Sun Salutations at night, long
after the sun has gone down. From a traditional yogis’ perspective this can
be done with an awareness and deep feeling of reverence for the sun.
Sun Salutations are best performed in the morning in direct sunlight with
as much of the body exposed to the sun as possible, yes even naked where
appropriate.
Information on this slide from: theyogatutor.com
3. BENEFITS OF THE SUN SALUTATION
• Standing poses ground you to the earth, build body awareness and help you
find your center.
• Forward bend and halfway lift elongate your spine, stretch your hamstrings
and cleanse your digestive system.
• Plank and four-limb staff poses engage the muscles in your
arms, shoulders, chest and abdomen.
• Upward-facing dog stretches your upper body as it opens your chest and frees
your breathing.
• Downward-facing dog works muscles in your entire body and calms your
nervous system.
• Sun Salutations are portable. You can practice them at home, in the park, at
the beach, in your hotel room, or at your local fitness or rec center.
Benefits derived from LIVESTRONG.COM1
1http://www.livestrong.com/article/413323-what-are-the-benefits-of-the-sun-salutation-in-yoga/
