Surya Namaskara: Sun Salutation Yoga Sequences

The relaxation ways after surya namaskar yoga

The Surya Namaskara, or Sun Salutation, is one of the most popular yoga sequences. This sequence of twelve yogic Asanas is not only an excellent warm-up exercise, but is also a superb fitness routine in itself. If you are in a time crunch, performing a series of Surya Namaskaras is the best way to give a quick fitness boost to your body in a matter of minutes.

The Surya Namaskara also has a direct effect on the endocrine system and the digestive system. It can balance any hormonal imbalances. Performing just 15 minutes of this amazing exercise every morning can speed up weight loss.

Like any other form of exercise, yoga routines also have three phases: the warm up, main exercise, and the cool down. If you are just performing the Surya Namaskara, you can skip the warming up phase because the Sun Salutation is also a warm up routine. However, after you have completed the Surya Namaskar, it is a good idea to cool down and allow your body to relax.

One of the best Asanas to relax after performing the Surya Namaskara is the Shava Asana, or Corpse pose. To perform the Shava Asana, lie down on your back on a yoga mat or carpet. Your arms and legs should be straight, with your legs slightly apart. Your arms should be held close to your body and your palms should be facing upwards.

Keep your eyes close, and breathe in and out deeply, but slowly, through your nostrils. Allow your mind to empty of all extraneous thoughts. As the maelstrom of thoughts whizzing around in your head subside, slowly focus your mind on your body. Start from your toes. Mentally tell your toes to relax. With some practice, you will actually feel the relaxation. Slowly move up your body, from part to part, telling each part of your body to relax.

Once you have reached your head, remain in this posture of relaxation for at least three to five minutes. The Shava Asana induces such a deep feeling of relaxation, that people often fall asleep while performing it. This should be avoided. If you feel yourself drifting off to sleep, increase your breathing rate to force your body to wake up.

Once you have lain in this position for the requisite amount of time, start focusing on your body parts, starting once again from your toes. Instead of telling each part to relax, tell each part to wake up. Enjoy the sensation of blood rushing all over your body as your limbs and muscles slowly awaken from their relaxed state. Once your entire body is awake, rub the palms of your hands together vigorously, to warm them. Then cup your eyes with your palms and slowly open your eyes. You’ll be amazed at how refreshed and rejuvenated you feel.

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