Surya Namaskaar

There are many customs that are integral part of Vedic culture that pertains to showing our gratitude to the Nature (Prakirti) that manifests in the form of Sun, Moon, rivers, forests and animals around us. Since times immemorial Sun worship was a central and integral part of religious practice on the Indian subcontinent.  This is evident in the presence of Konarak and Arasavelli (A.P.)  Sun temples.

There are numerous references of praising the Sun for the purpose of good health and prosperity, in Vedas. Some of these Vedic hymns were incorporated into "Nitya Vidhi" (Daily routine prayers) for the well being of an individual, through the salutations to the Sun. These daily procedures were termed as Surya Namaskaar (literally translates as "sun salutations"). 

Surya Namaskar was born out of deep reverence, awe and gratitude for the Natural Forces which create, sustain, nourish and evolve all the life on this planet. Surya Namaskaar fosters a discipline of mind, body and emotions. Such a practice refines, sensitizes, and energizes the human being and is a daily reminder of the debt we humans owe to Sun God.  

Surya Namaskaar is also an important part of physical Yogic asanas that a Yogi performs before sitting for prayers and mediation. Surya Namaskaar comprises of a sequence of twelve Yogic asanas that helps keep our physical body strong and healthy. These are:

Pranamasana (Prayer pose)

Hastauttanasana (Raised Arms pose)

Hasta Padasana (Hand to Foot pose)

Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Equestrian pose)

Dandasana (Stick pose)

Ashtanga Namaskara (Salute With Eight Parts Or Points)

Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)

Parvatasana (Mountain pose)

Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Equestrian pose)

Hasta Padasana (Hand to Foot pose)

Hastauttanasana (Raised Arms pose)

Tadasana (Standing Mountain pose)