From: LeilaOfTheWoods (Original Message) Sent: 11/10/2004 7:00 PM
Posing For Sunshine
Yoga Sun Salutation
Sun Salutation or surya namaskara is a series of poses common to most schools of yoga because of its versatility and remarkably comprehensive beneficial results. The combination of movements revitalizes the body and energizes mind. Some practitioners have even found that consistent practice of Sun Salutation can eliminate disease and bring about spiritual awakening.
The series is made up of twelve poses or asanas that combine to bring the body from standing position to laying on your back (supine) and back up again in such a way that all the major muscle groups (many of the minor ones too) and vital organs are stretched, massaged and toned. It is usually practiced in the morning, facing east toward the sunrise. Focus is gently placed on three elements: form, energy and rhythm. Breathing is the key to working through stiffness and tension. Generally one inhales during back bending postures and exhales during forward bending poses. Instead of giving up, when tension arises, one should hold the pose and take a deep breath imaging the air releasing the knot.
One complete round can take as little as five minutes so it is perfect for busy bees. Though the benefits can be felt with such a short session, one can choose to spend much longer, even hours, doing Sun Salutation, depending on how deeply each pose is explored and how many repetitions are done. A typical yoga class will usually include at least one cycle of sun salutation but there are many classes, particularly Ashtanga yoga classes, that will spend the entire session working on variations of the series. It is best to receive instruction from a yoga teacher in person or on video at least once before trying to perform the series. It is also important to remain consistent. Five minutes is a small commitment to make for the benefits you will feel.
Worshipping the sun is one of the most ancient, primal forms of spirituality. With our increasingly sedentary lifestyles, we can thank the yogis of the Vedic times who had the understanding to develop such a complete physical practice that works on the body, mind and soul. Reflect on the connection between your body and that blazing star that provides us with the heat of life and enjoy the benefits of ancient yogic wisdom.
For more information visit Abc-of-yoga.com