Surya Namaskar is a group of yogic postures that many people practice for their well-being. It is an ancient practice. Surya namaskar also focuses on the three elements- Vata, Pitta and Kapha (that constitute the human body). According to Yoga -Vata, Pitta and Kapha are the three elements or doshas that create the human body.
It also says that an imbalanced dosha is the primary reason for various health problems and illnesses. Surya Namaskar helps to balance these doshas and has many benefits. So, if you are looking for an effective exercise or wondering what Surya Namaskar is, then keep reading. Today, we will discuss the concept of Surya Namaskar and the benefits of Surya Namaskar.
What is Surya Namaskar?
If you are attending your new yoga classes, you may be introduced to it. And if you are wondering about what it is or what are the benefits of Surya Namaskar? Then, here is a short explanation for you. The name is quite self-expressive. Surya means the Sun, and Namaskar means salutation or greetings. So, Surya Namaskar means paying greetings to the Sun.
Surya Namaskar is a compilation of twelve postures. And it is used to practice at the beginning of Yoga to warm up your body for the yoga practice.
Different types of Surya Namaskar
Surya Namaskar is not a single posture. It is divided into three types. Each type has its benefits. They are also included in different yoga asanas. Below we will discuss them in detail.
- Hatha Surya Namaskar – Hatha Surya Namaskar is the easiest type of Surya Namaskar. It deeply concentrates on breathing work. The Hatha Surya Namaskar is performed through 12 spinal poses.
- Asthanga Surya Namaskar – Asthanga Surya Namaskar is another type of Surya Namaskar that consists of two types – A and B. The first type includes nine vinyasas, and the second type includes seventeen different vinyasas.
- Iyengar Surya Namaskar – Iyengar Surya Namaskar is the quickest among the other two Surya Namaskar. It is similar to Hatha Surya Namaskar but focuses on energy and pace.
Benefits of Surya Namaskar
Surya Namaskar is an ancient practice in Yoga, and it has great significance in yoga asana. Practising Surya Namaskar has many benefits. And today, we will list some essential benefits of Surya Namaskar.
Helps in anxiety
Surya Namaskar is widely used for treating anxiety and hypertension-related issues. If you are practising Surya Namaskar currently, you must have felt calm after performing it. It is because Surya Namaskar uses several postures that help improve the endocrine system and control excessive stress hormone release. It also improves heart rate and reduces muscle tension.
Helps to improve sleeping patterns
Stress and anxiety can cause sleeplessness. Chronic sleeplessness is called insomnia which can cause serious health problems. If you regularly practice Surya Namaskar, you will find mental peace, calmness and better sleep. It will also release stress and restlessness and improve sleeping quality gradually.
Helps to maintain healthy body weight
Another essential benefit of Surya Namaskar is maintaining healthy body weight. If you want to lose weight or are struggling with obesity, Surya Namaskar can help you reach your target efficiently. Regular practice of Hatha Surya Namaskar or Iyengar Surya Namaskar can help you to lose weight.
Better Digestive system
The improved digestive system is one of the essential benefits of Surya Namaskar. Practising Surya Namaskar improves the bowel system and blood circulation in your body. Surya Namaskar postures improve your gut health, and you get a better digestive system. A better digestive system also helps to prevent different stomach-related issues, and you do not have to worry about your stomach health in future.
Better cognitive function
The benefits of Surya Namaskar also include an improved cognitive system. Practising Surya increases oxygen flow in your brain. It also improves blood circulation in your brain arteries. Healthy blood flow helps to stimulate different parts of your brain and strengthen your cognitive power such as memory, concentration, creative thinking etc.
Detox your body
An unhealthy lifestyle and food habits can increase the toxins in your body. High toxins can cause various health problems like restlessness, irritation, lack of concentration, poor digestion and many others. And detoxing is one of the vital benefits of Surya Namaskar. Surya Namaskar uses several postures that help to generate your body’s energy positively and improves various organ functioning.
It also releases body toxins through sweat or perspiration and detoxes your body.
Promotes regular menstrual cycle
A regular menstrual cycle is also one of the primary benefits of Surya Namaskar. Regularly practising these asanas helps to improve the menstrual cycle. It also strengthens the muscles of your abdomen and makes them flexible. Therefore, it also reduces the chances of cramps and pains and helps to have a trouble-free cycle.
Reduce blood sugar levels
Surya Namaskar also helps with blood sugar levels. If you have high blood sugar, then you can benefit from it. Practising Surya Namaskar can effectively reduce blood sugar levels without artificial medicines.
Good for skin health
If you are looking for flawless glowing skin naturally, Surya Namaskar can be an ideal practice to incorporate into your daily life. Surya Namaskar includes some postures that improve blood circulation in your body. Poor blood circulation can cause various skin problems. Surya Namaskar also removes toxins from your body. Lower toxins also reduce acne pimple-like skin problems. So, if you regularly practice it, you can get healthy and glowing skin without using unnatural beauty products.
Good for heart health
Last but not the least, Surya Namaskar can help you keep your heart healthy and strong. People with heart problems can also benefit from Surya Namaskar. Practising the postures of Surya Namaskar improves heart rate and increases oxygen flow in your body. Many doctors also suggest practising Surya Namaskar to keep the heart healthy.
Conclusion Surya Namaskar is a crucial part of Yoga. It is more than a practice to pay salutation to the Sun or improve physical health. The benefits of Surya namaskar are endless. Surya Namaskar is significant for enlightening the human mind and connecting it to the natural elements. Surya Namaskar is also a practice that helps us to uplift spiritually. Regularly practising the postures of Surya namaskar can improve your mental and physical health, but it also plays a crucial role in self-development and improves your overall lifestyle.
1 thought on “What is Surya Namaskar and Its Benefits”