Yoga - Surya Namaskar Benefits

Surya Namaskar Benefits 

Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations) is a series of forward and backbends sequenced together to form a 

vinyasa, a series of postures joined together with the breath. 

It is a practice that is traditionally done in the morning facing, and as a salutation to, the rising sun. 

When done in the morning, it may help to activate and awaken the body, getting the fluids and blood 

flowing to all parts of the body. 

There are also benefits to doing the practice in the evening. “Often after a hard day’s work, we would 

just flop down on the couch apparently relaxing our bodies - but it is NOT so. The stagnant energies 

remain locked up and the organs remain de-oxygenated to a large extent. Surya Namaskar has a deep 

effect in detoxifying the organs through copious oxygenation and has a deeper relaxing effect.”1

Its benefits may include: 

 Working and activating every muscle group and joint in the body. 

 Strengthening the abdominals 

 Improving circulation 

 Toning the nervous system 

 Great for brain function bringing oxygen and fresh blood to the brain 

 Improving concentration 

 Promoting sleep and calming anxiety 

 Calming the body and mind 

 Aiding the function of the lungs, liver, heart, digestive system, reproductive system, lymphatic 

system, endocrine system and kidneys 

 Helping to improve posture, flexibility and balance 

 Developing grace and ease of movement through the whole body 

You can practice as many rounds as you like at any time during the day for a boost of energy or to 

dispel excess energy. 

The practice can be done very slowly, holding each position for 2-3 breaths (good way to start in the 

morning) or transitioning through each position with each breath. 

Namaste.