The planets revolve around the Sun; Life begins with the sun. Hence it holds great importance to us- scientifically and religiously. Performing Surya Namaskars, Sun Salutation we are respecting and celebrating the source of all life forms. Let us know the science and logic that goes into performing Surya Namaskar.
The Solar Plexus
According to the ancient Rishis of India, different parts of the body are governed by different Devas (divine impulses or divine light). The solar plexus (located behind the navel, which is the central point of the human body) is said to be connected with the Sun. This is the main reason why the ancient Rishis recommended the practice of Surya Namaskar because the regular practice of this technique enhances the solar plexus, which increases one’s creativity and intuitive abilities.
What is the importance of Solar plexus?
According to Sri Sri Ravi Shanker, all our emotions get stored in the solar plexus, and it is also the point from where one’s gut feelings arise. The size of the solar plexus is said to like the size of a small gooseberry. However, for those who do yoga and it becomes much bigger – almost three to four times bigger than the normal size. The more expanded your solar plexus, the greater is your mental stability and your intuition.
The Benefits of Surya Namaskar
Surya Namaskar is a set of 12 postures, preferably to be done at the time of sunrise. The regular practice of Surya Namaskar improves circulation of blood throughout the body, maintains health, and helps one remain disease-free.
The Complete Guidebook for Surya Namaskar – Sun Salutation Instructions
Help lose weight
When done at a fast pace, Surya Namaskar can give an excellent cardiovascular workout to help weight. The postures will help stretch the abdominal muscles while helping you shed pounds around your belly. The movements will also improve metabolism.
Helps strengthen muscles and joints
Surya Namaskar offers a good way to stretch and strengthen muscles, joints, ligament, as well as the skeletal system. The movements can also help improve the flexibility of the spine. The limbs become symmetrical helping internal vital organs to function better.
Ensures a better functioning digestive system
These yoga poses will help increase the blood flow to the digestive tract resulting in better functioning of the intestines. The forward bend pose will help increase your abdomen space which will aid in releasing the trapped gasses.
Helps cope with insomnia
Sleeping patterns can be improved by the practice of Surya Namaskar. The asanas will help calm your mind, giving you a good night’s sleep.
Ensures regular menstrual cycle
Surya Namaskar can also be beneficial for women who are suffering from irregular menstrual cycles as it helps regulate it. Regular practice of the movements can also help in easy childbirth.
Brings down blood sugar levels
According to our expert, the movements of the sun salutation also aid in bringing down your blood sugar levels and help keep heart diseases at bay.
Helps detox
Due to the active inhalation and exhalation process, the lungs are thoroughly ventilated, and the blood remains oxygenated. This also helps in detoxifying one’s body by getting rid of carbon dioxide and other toxic gasses.
Should Children Do Surya Namaskar?
Surya Namaskar calms the mind and helps improves concentration. Today, children face a lot of competition and pressure. Adopting Surya Namaskar in their daily schedule boosts endurance power and reduces the feeling of anxiety and restlessness, especially during exams. Regular practice of Surya Namaskar gives strength and vitality to the body. Children as young as 5-year-olds can start doing Surya Namaskar daily.
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