Surya Namaskara- The moving meditation by Soumya Raghav

The one exercise for your body and brain that can work wonders throughout the day! Learn about the history, complete asanas and technique from yoga instructor Soumya Raghav. She has a workshop coming up on Surya Namaskara. Sign up for the workshop by calling the phone number mentioned in the flyer and make this a core part of your healthy routine.
Surya Namaskara is a popular ancient sequence technique with twelve asanas for paying respect or expressing gratitude to the Lord Sun who is the source of all forms of life on the planet.

Suryanamaskar is a complete sadhana- spiritual practice, in itself for it includes Asana, Pranayama, mantra and meditation techniques.

Physical and Mental and spiritual benefits of Surya Namaskara -The Surya Namaskar tones the entire body and helps to strengthen muscles and joints.

Enhances healthy complexion as it ensures a better functioning of the digestive system.
Improves sleep as it helps combat insomnia and reduces stress levels.
This is especially beneficial for women as it ensures regular menstrual cycle.
It helps in reducting body fat, improves balance in the nervous system and reduces blood sugar levels.

These are the following health benefits with regular practice of Surya Namaskara:

Maintains homeostasis
Improves blood circulation within the body
Balances all doshas ( Vata, Pitta, Kapha)
Activates all energy centers - the 7 chakras
Stimulates the Lymphatic system
Stretches and tones Fascia
Calms the Nervous system
Relieves neck and shoulder tension
Improves cardiovascular health
Regulates Blood sugar levels
Regulates hormone secretion
Helps release Endorphins ( happy hormones )
Brings clarity of thoughts
Particularly beneficial for people with anxiety, insomnia, depression and stress

Q. So when is the best time to practice Surya Namaskar?
A. Early morning or early evening

Q. What does Ayurveda say about SN ?
A. Practicing SN can actively balance the imbalances between the 3 doshas - Vata pitta & Kapha leading to a balanced mind - body connection.

Q. Who can practice SN ?
A. All age groups - Kids to adults

Q. Who should not practice SN ?
A. Pregnant and menstruating women, people with back pain , wrist injury, Arthritis, Heart issues should consult a doctor before practicing.

Note: Learn and practice under an experienced teacher for an injury free safe practice.

SN bridges the connection between the active physical movement of dynamic poses to the subtle breath and inward control of the mind body complex through the senses. This is why I call it the moving meditation.

Author: Soumya Raghav,
Masters in Yoga therapy
Child birth educator
Certified Yoga teacher