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A Literature Review on Suryanamaskar (Sun Salutations)
Authors: Velhal Amol
Number of views: 861
“Surya” means “Sun” and “Namaskar” means “to bow down.” The traditional sequence of set of
twelve postures is called SuryaNamaskar practiced since years together. The logical conclusion
is that the sun is the life or energy source for all and is an element in everything we eat, drink or
breathe. The earth and the moon are significant in the way they affect life, but the sun is the
source of all energy and when one is in tune with the cycles of the sun, physical health, wellbeing,
vitality, and energy. We expect life from sun. There is no possibilityof life in the absence
of the Sun’s rays.SuryaNamaskar or Sun Salutation is a very ancient technique of paying respect
or expressing gratitude to the Sun. The Sun Salutations are regularly practiced by almost all
Indians and in many Indian schools. As per new Government regulations Yoga training has been
made mandatory in primary and secondary school curriculum. SuryaNamaskar has a deep effect
in detoxifying the organs through copious oxygenation and has a deeper relaxing effect on whole
body including mind. Synchronizing the breath with the movements of the body is very
important while performing SuryaNamaskar. When the SuryaNamaskar are done a little quickly,
the gain is more physical while if they are done slowly with the awareness of breath the gain is
more mental and spiritual. Incorporating the SuryaNamaskar into our daily routine makes a
positive difference to our life. It is the ultimate combination of physical exercise, breathing
exercise and chants during various postures of SuryaNamaskar.The body (through the physical
movement), the mind (though the control on breathing) and the spirit (through the chants) get a
boost from the practice of SuryaNamaskar.SuryaNamaskar is a set of twelve postures, preferably
to be done at the time of sunrise. The regular practice of Surya Namaskar improves circulation of
blood throughout the body, maintains health, and helps one remain disease-free. There are
numerous benefits of SuryaNamaskar for the heart, liver, intestine, stomach, chest, throat, legs.
From head to toe, every part of the body is greatly benefitted by Surya Namaskar, which is why
it is highly recommended by all yoga experts.