Physical Education

Unit - 4

4.1.6.Importance of Yoga Sun Salutation Or Surya Namaskara

• Yoga Sun Salutation or Surya Namaskara literally means salute to the sun. It finds its roots in worship of Surya, the sun god. This sequence of activities and poses can be practiced as a physical exercise or a complete "sadhana" which incorporates exercise postures, breathing exercises, and profound meditation. A full round of these poses (asanas) are completed with two sets of the twelve postures comprising of forward and backward stretch of the spine. The orthodox time preference for practicing this routine is sunrise when optimum benefits for the spirit and the body can be reaped.
• The rewards of Surya Namaskara are many. It is the best exercise for achieving fitness. It includes a warm up session as well as the main exercise. In this present day and time, as every individual faces a time-crunch it is difficult to exercise regularly, but with just fifteen minutes of this yoga, maximum results and infinite benefits can be obtained.
• These yogic asanas directly affect the endocrine system and the digestive system, balance any hormonal imbalances and give a quick shot of vigor to the body in a matter of minutes. This yoga is highly recommended for obese people of all ages as they can speed up their weight loss and burn calories rapidly with its help. Without causing any workout injury or stress to the bones and muscles, the shape of the body can be improved by conducting an organized and orderly set of these asanas that alternately stretch the spine backwards and forwards. This activity will also enhance overall flexibility of the body. In about three month's time and with dedicated practice of Surya Namaskara the suppleness and litheness of the body can be increased.
• It is beneficial to perform yoga at sunrise, in a well ventilated place; this will increase the level of oxygen in blood. This oxygen enriched blood will augment the store of energy in the body and make one feel active and energetic all through the day. Moving into each asana with alternate inhalation and exhalation, also improves breathing capacity. This part of the yoga routine will help expand the chest walls, give greater lung capacity and that in it's self will solve all the respiratory problems. Once it is learned to regulate breathing, stamina is built automatically.
• Surya Namaskara is the most popular and esteemed exercise as it tones and strengthens the body. Regular practitioners of this regime enjoy a body that is healthy and full of vitality. These exercises shape and fortify the muscles and improve the condition and functioning of the internal organs. Fitness of the limbs and organs will build natural immunity and provide resistance to fight all kinds of diseases.
• Yoga Sun Salutation holds equal benefits for the body and the mind. Its practice results in a shapely and strong body encompassing a sharp and focused mind. Working out the routine at dawn, with controlled breathing, uplifts the mood too. This alleviation of anxiety and stress grants a clear and alert mind that is capable of concentration and meditation which is the ultimate path to creating complete harmony of the spirit and the body.