Sun is the ultimate source of energy and life. Since many civilisations, people have been praying to the sun in different ways. In the yoga training, Surya Namaskar is the salutation or the method of offering prayer to the sun. It is an ancient method combining twelve yoga asanas in all which harmonise the mind, body and the breath. These asanas are performed facing towards the sun in order to express gratitude for the source energy of life. According to the ancient Indian saints and sages, different energies are responsible for the different body parts of the body. For example, solar plexus chakra, located behind the navel is connected with the sun’s energy. Consistent practice of Surya Namaskar increases the energy flow in all the chakras. Each chakra is responsible for providing different benefits for the body.
The benefits and importance of Surya Namaskar are taught in detail in the yoga teacher training course programs. Surya Namaskar is best done when it is practised in the morning at the time of sunrise. If done in the morning, Surya Namaskar refreshes the mind, revitalises the energy levels and makes and an everlasting positive impact on the body through the day. However, if practised during the evening time, the asanas help in relaxing and releasing all the accumulated tension throughout the day. There are three speeds according to which Surya Namaskar can be practised. The slow speed helps in increasing the flexibility, the medium speed helps in toning of the muscles and the fast speed helps in the weight loss because of its cardiovascular like intensity.
There are numerous benefits of Surya Namaskar. However, some of the most important are listed down below:
Weight loss:
In the yogic science, the practice of Surya Namaskar is considered as an intensive physical exercising method that works on almost all parts of the body. You will instantly start to notice a change if you increase the number of rounds of Surya Namaskar. The weight loss happens evenly and very easily. Due to a good amount of stretching, excessive fat goes away. Additionally, the circular movements of Surya Namaskar also help in increasing the metabolism.
Glowing skin:
Surya Namaskar improves the blood circulation in the body. The improved blood circulation automatically keeps the skin glowing and young. The energy and vitality levels also increase thereby increasing the radiance and firmness of the skin. Stress release helps in a better mind body balance which also helps keep the skin wrinkle free.
Anxiety free:
Anxiety stays far away because of regular practice of Surya Namaskar. A significant improvement in the nervous system leads to an improved memory. It also restores peace and allows a person to create solutions to the problems rather than anxiety. The blood sugar levels stay regulated and therefore heart diseases never arise.
Better digestive system:
Better running of the digestive system happens with the sun salutation practice. The yoga asanas in the Surya Namaskar increase the blood flow in the digestive tract. As a result of this, the intestines start functioning better. The forward bend helps in expanding the abdomen space and the trapped gases get released thereby. On the whole, Surya Namaskar is excellent for a better digestion.
Better hair:
The improved blood circulation in the scalp nourishes the head thereby preventing hair loss. The many different poses also prevent premature greying and makes the hair healthy.
Insomnia:
Sleeping patterns can be improved significantly with the help of Surya Namaskar. In addition to this, a calm and a quiet mind helps in experiencing a deep sound sleep. A restful mind and sleep come naturally with practice of Surya Namaskar.
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