Traditionally performed by yogis to greet the new day, the sun salutation is a series of twelve poses that flow into one another with the breath. This asana sequence is called Surya Namaskar: “surya” means the sun and “namaskar” means to bow or adore. Hindus have been honoring the sun for thousands of years and consider it to be the heart of both the physical and spiritual world. The series begins and ends in Tadasana with the hands together at the heart. This pose is a physical manifestation of turning one’s awareness inward towards the heart, the source of one’s own truth. Whether you’re a yoga newbie or you’ve been practicing for years the sun salutation is a peaceful way to start your day, honoring your body and the life around it.

Benefits of Surya Namaskar

• Strengthens abdominal muscles
• Promotes sleep and calms anxiety
• Improves muscle flexibility
• Helps posture
• Increases overall body strength