Good Morning Sun!: Flowing with Surya Namaskar

Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutations, is a graceful sequence of yoga poses strung together in a poetic dance. It's more than a mere warm-up; it's a vibrant ode to the sun, illuminating not just the body but also the mind and spirit.

What’s the magic behind this routine? It’s akin to a high-five from the universe. Surya Namaskar isn't just physical; it's a deep homage to the sun, the very source of life and energy. Its benefits transcend mere physicality—it’s a gateway to tranquility, joy, and even a better night's sleep; a holistic wellness package delivered through purposeful movement.

108 Sun Salutations?

While 12 rounds of Surya Namaskar are commonly practiced and are sufficient for many, the number 108 holds significant spiritual and cultural symbolism in various traditions, from prayer malas to Ayurvedic references. 

During events such as the spring equinox, some practitioners take on the demanding ritual of 108 consecutive Sun Salutations. This practice is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and spirit, welcoming new energies with the changing seasons. Completing 108 rounds isn't just physical but also a mental challenge. Around the 65th round, practitioners often face a pivotal moment where both body and mind seek rest, requiring both physical stamina and mental resilience. 

Whether practicing 12, 65, or the notable 108 rounds, it's not just about the numbers; it's about the journey, the bond with the practice, and the personal growth it fosters.


Dance with the Sun

Now, let's dance through this ritual:

  1. Begin in the mountain pose, with feet hip-distance apart.

  2. Inhale and raise your arms up in an upward salute.

  3. Exhale and bend forward into a forward bend.

  4. Inhale, stepping one foot back into a lunge.

  5. Exhale, step the other foot back into a plank pose.

  6. Move through a series of poses, including Chaturanga, upward-facing dog, and downward-facing dog.

  7. Complete the sequence by returning to the forward bend and then standing tall in the upward salute.


This dance is a composition that feels like a symphony of movements, creating a melody of serenity within. 

Remember -  It's not just about touching your toes or striking a pose—it's about honoring the sun, the ultimate source of energy. 


Sway with the Moon

There's more depth to this morning ritual. It's not confined to just the sunrise. Even if you’re not an early riser, the evening counterpart, Chandra Namaskar, awaits—a moonlit sequence perfect for unwinding as the day fades. It’s a soothing melody for your body, preparing you for a restful night.

Here's how it gently unfolds:

  1. Start in mountain pose.

  2. Inhale, extending your arms upward.

  3. Exhale, bending to the side.

  4. Inhale and transition into goddess squat.

  5. Move through a series of poses, including pyramid pose and low lunge.

  6. Complete the sequence by returning to the mountain pose.


Here lies the morning’s ode to the sun, the evening’s lullaby to the moon—a gateway to holistic wellness. Surya Namaskar isn’t merely a sequence; it’s a profound promise of a day and night illuminated with radiance. These rituals act as gentle reminders to connect with the natural rhythms of the cosmos and honour the vital energies that shape our existence.


So, unfurl your yoga mat, greet the dawn, and sway through this elegant dance, embracing the vitality and serenity it offers.

Om Shanti!

Yoga Pod