Sun Salutations are a sequence of yoga poses strung together in a consistent movement, typically present in Vinyasa-style yoga. In Sanskrit, Sun Salutations are known as “Surya Namaskar” and were traditionally practiced to usher in the brand new day, hence the name.
In Sanskrit, “Vinyasa” might be translated to mean linking breath with motion in a continuous flow. Thus, Sun Salutations are physically difficult and are a superb cardiovascular workout.
Yet there’s quite a bit more meaning beyond the surface-level workout, so let’s dive in!
What Is the Significance of 108?
The number 108 is sacred and significant in some ways, appearing in lots of disciplines from astronomy to yoga:
- The number 108 appears in ancient, sacred texts. For instance, there are 108 Upanishads and 108 Tantras
- In numerology, 108 equals 9, which symbolizes universal love, eternity and awakening
- In Ayurveda, there are 108 sacred points on the body
- In astronomy, the gap between the Sun and Earth is roughly 108 times the Sun’s diameter
- Mala bead necklaces have 108 beads, that are used to count during meditation
When Do People Practice 108 Sun Salutations?
Sun Salutations might be practiced any time and with any frequency. Traditionally, practicing 108 Sun Salutations is reserved for the change of the seasons (ie the Winter and Summer Solstice, and the Spring and Fall Equinox).
Spring and Fall Equinoxes
During an equinox, the day and night are equal lengths. The Spring Equinox represents a time of rebirth and latest beginnings, making it an amazing time to detoxify the body. The Fall Equinox, also called the Autumnal Equinox, offers a time to go inside and ground before the onset of winter.
Summer and Winter Solstice
The Summer Solstice is marked as a time of celebration. Many cultures have festivals to have a good time the sun and its life-giving energy. The summer marks a time of every thing being in full bloom. The Winter Solstice symbolizes death and rebirth – latest beginnings and fresh starts.
The excellent news is you don’t must wait for a specific time to practice 108 Sun Salutations. Discover why you need to practice 108 Sun Salutations anytime, anywhere – and what you’ll study yourself.
Why Do People Practice 108 Sun Salutations?
It’s believed that the hearth (internal heat) that you simply construct during this practice is cleansing, detoxifying, and gets you more in contact with yourself.
Move Energy
Sun Salutations heat the body and activate Prana, or upward energy. You’ve probably heard in yoga class that the energetic parts of sophistication (like a Vinyasa flow) help create and move energy and stuck emotions. The slower parts of sophistication (like hip openers and reclined poses) help release energy and emotions that now not serve you.
Clear Your Mind
Practicing 108 sun salutations requires a robust will and a single-pointed concentrate on moving with the breath
(and counting!). When you get right into a rhythm along with your sun salutation flow, your mental chatter will decrease as your awareness turns inward. This is the reason it is commonly called a moving meditation.
Give up
During 108 Sun Salutations, you’ll sooner or later think, “Why did I join for this?” In the event you keep going, you can find a state of ease, and even a way of flow. You’ll give up to the method, acknowledge what arises emotionally, after which let it go. While you finish, you’ll feel lighter and find meaning on this ancient ritual.
Here Are 6 Things You Will Learn When You Practice 108 Sun Salutations:
1. You’re stronger than you think that
108 appears like quite a bit – chances are you’ll not reach that number the primary time. No matter the full number, you will probably be surprised at your strength and what number of rounds you may do. Give yourself some credit for what you’ve completed, because you might be powerful and deserve the popularity!
2. Negative thoughts don’t define you
Negative thoughts can develop into energy that gets trapped within the body. Sun Salutations activate stuck energy, aid you move through it, and ultimately let go of things that now not serve you. Releasing negative energy is a vital step on the trail to happiness, and this practice will show you that you’ve gotten the facility to release anything holding you back.
3. You might have the facility to shift your perspective
In the event you practice with a positive mantra, like “I’m at peace,” then chances are you’ll see significant changes in your mood and perspective. Specializing in positivity as you practice has the facility to remodel your entire outlook. When you accomplish 108 Sun Salutations, chances are you’ll event notice a lift in your overall confidence!
4. You could find grounding amidst any challenge
The repetition and ritual of 108 Sun Salutations will provide a way of grounding. Do not forget that Sun Salutations are named in honor of the cycles of the life. 108 Sun Salutations is unquestionably difficult, but when you practice them, you can find a way of grounding and learn the right way to access it with any challenge you face.
5. You’ll discover your inner drive
While this will probably be different for all and sundry, you will notice emotions and sensations arise that you simply never knew existed (or thought were long gone). Chances are you’ll learn what inspires you to flow and even how your dedication can cultivate confidence. Throughout this practice, you’ll proceed to witness your incredible drive.
6. You should have more energy afterwards
You’ll feel a rise in energy when you complete your Sun Salutations because they generate Prana. Afterward, chances are you’ll end up feeling more energized, more alert, and empowered overall – now that’s an amazing feeling!
Final Suggestions for Practicing 108 Sun Salutations
Able to get in your mat and experience 108 Sun Salutations for yourself? Follow these easy tricks to aid you start: First, hearken to your body and modify poses as needed. For instance, bring one or each knees to the mat for Chaturanga. Try Baby Cobra as an alternative of Upward Facing Dog.
Remember to proceed your deep, conscious respiration and never hesitate to stop for a break for those who need it. While it could seem obvious, discover a quiet place away out of your cellular phone and other devices so you may stay focused and practice without interruption.
Now you might be able to get in your mat and begin practicing your 108 Sun Salutations!
Doing all 108 Sun Salutations took me a bit of over two hours to finish, however it was value every minute. There aren’t any words to explain the sensation you’ve gotten afterwards, and I believe every yogi should experience it no less than once.
Remember – the goal is 108, but all the time hearken to your body. Whether you finish 8, 18, or 49, it’s the intent that counts. Make yoga a heart-centered practice, not an ego-based practice.
If you’ll want to take a break, take one! You’ll be able to break it into several rounds with an extended child’s pose in between. Do what works for you!
Learn Methods to Practice Sun Salutations on YA Classes
In the event you’re latest to sun salutations or in search of a refresher, then take this Sun 101 class on YouAligned Classes! In the event you just need a guided sun salutation practice to follow together with, do this class.
Yoga Class
With Annie Dee Coyle
Have you ever done 108 Sun Salutations before? Please leave a comment to share your experience below – we love hearing from you!
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