Yoga is considered as one of the greatest gift to the mankind for staying fit. It not only keeps your body healthy but also feeds your mind and soul with happiness and calmness. It is said that the happiest person is not the one who has wealth, power or any other materialistic possessions. But he is the one who has a healthy body. Yoga helps you in achieving it. And the best thing is that you don’t need fancy equipment to do it. You can sit anywhere and do it. But knowing the different Asanas is an important aspect of it. Fist learn the Asanas thoroughly and then do it, because remember that a little or half knowledge is dangerous. Probably one of the best Asanas is Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation), as it is considered to cover all the major Asanas of the Yoga.
Science Behind Practicing Surya Namaskar
It has been said (by the ancient Rishis of India) that the different parts of the body are governed by different Devas (divine impulses or divine light). The solar plexus (located behind the navel, which is the central point of the human body) is said to be connected with the Sun. This is the main reason why the ancient Rishis recommended the practice of Surya Namaskar, because the regular practice of this technique enhances the solar plexus, which increases one’s creativity and intuitive abilities. The body (through the physical movement), the mind (though the solar plexus) and the spirit (through the chants) get a boost from the practice of Surya Namaskar.
All our emotions get stored in the solar plexus, and it is also the point from where one’s gut feelings arise. The size of the solar plexus is said to like the size of a small gooseberry. However, for those who do yoga and meditation it becomes much bigger – almost three to four times bigger than the normal size. The more expanded your solar plexus, the greater is your mental stability and your intuition. – Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Surya Namaskar has 12 postures and the best time to do it is during sunrise. It has to be done empty stomach and children can start it from the age of 5. Here are few benefits of doing it which is not possible with any medicine or any other form of exercises.
- Improves circulation of blood throughout the body, maintains health, and helps one remain disease-free.
- Is good for the heart, liver, intestine, stomach, chest, throat, legs. Almost every body part is stretched from head to toe, while doing it.
- Revitalizes the body and refreshes the mind, making us ready to take on all tasks of the day
- When done at a fast pace, Surya Namaskar is an excellent cardiovascular workout and a good way to lose weight.
- Calms the mind and helps improves concentration, making it excellent exercise for students. It also reduces the feeling of anxiety and restlessness.
- It is the best workout for muscles and improves flexibility in spine and in limbs.
- Develops our intuitive ability and makes us more clear and focused.
