I adore the practice of Surya Namaskar, not only because it makes me feel strong in my body, flexible and with increased energy, but because it totally connects me to the natural laws of nature. It is so much more than just a physical exercise but a way to express oneself and ignite the solar energy that lies within us. Of course the physical benefits are there, toning the whole body, increasing respiration and detoxing through the build up of toxins in the lungs and kidneys. It stimulates and harmonizes the endocrine system - regulating the efficient working order of the glands and metabolic system and massages the internal organs as well as increasing flexibility and strength. The whole body receives a boon with the practice. However when also practiced with an awareness of the cycles of the sun within the 24 hours, the different elements to the day and how the energy changes within us, we can become fully connected back to the universe and her cycles and feel mentally balanced and back in touch with our true nature; that of Sat Chid Ananda - that of pure consciousness, existence and bliss absolute. Surya Namaskar practiced with absolute awareness is a powerful means to bring us back to ourselves through the self and become whole and at one again. This practice is not only preventative for disease and illness of the body and mind but also heals the sufferings we may be going through, it is one of the most powerful tools a yoga therapist has in their tool box.
As you stand in tadasana and bring the palms together in front of the heart, imagine the wonderful rising sun - a time of dusk and peace, drawing that peace into the heart.
As you reach up towards the sun arching backward, draw all the energy of the sun into the body and through every pore in the body bringing upmost energy and vitalization. Draw every ray of light into yourself.
As you come down towards the earth in padahastasana - look within for inspiration from the inner guru and draw the energy downwards, take time to go deeper within the self.
As you step back to ashwa sanchalanasana look upward for power and courage, the self confidence is there after looking within to the inner guide.
As you step back to the plank we make a little prayer for our progress in our life on our path.
As you come down to ashtanga namaskar we look to the earth for nourishment and support, this is representing the mid day sun when energy is at an ebb and we may be at our most vulnerable and we make a gesture of surrender.
As we rise up into bhujangasana we look up to the cosmic golden self represented in the light, showing an awakening from ignorance to knowledge as we ascent back up toward a pure state of being.
As we push back to parvatasana - the inverted V, we again introvert and look inwards with introspection providing balance from an extroverted daily life.
As we step forward back to ashwa sanchalanasana we look again upward to the cosmic mother for her infinite energy and wisdom.
Stepping forward to reach again padahastasana - the standing forward fold we make a little prayer for inspiration and stimulation from the power of the sun.
As we rise back up to hasta utthanasana we lift ourselves up to the one who is fit to be praised - the giver of all life, the one whom shines on all and is friend of all.
As we come back to bringing the hands together in namaskar mudra in front of the heart center, hold the beautiful setting sun between the palms, the time of dusk and again feel the peacefulness of this time. A time of stillness and tranquility, no restlessness - just being.
Surya Namaskar is an amazing technique and when you have learnt it and fully experienced each of the 12 postures from not only a physical level but from that also of expression, thought and feeling - it is an wonderful priceless practice passed down over generation and generation.
So turn your head upward and look to the glorious sun, go deeper within and feel every part of your beautiful existence.
Be the light of the all mighty sun and shine shine shine!
Have days and nights full of light and lightness of being
Om shanti Om
Mangala / Nicky
OM OM OM
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