Surya Namaskar, also known as ‘The Ultimate Asana’ is a prayer of gratitude toward the sun.

 It stimulates our whole body. Furthermore, it is perfect for those looking to perform an intensive workout in a small amount of time. If you manage to complete the 12 asanas or yoga poses of this yoga sequence, it is equivalent to you having done 288 powerful yoga postures. Moreover 10 minutes of Surya Namaskar translates into burning 139 calories.

Surya namaskar consists of 7 asanas performed in cyclic order-

1. Pranamasana (Prayer pose)

2. Hasta uttanasana (Raised arm pose)

3. Padahastasana (Standing forward bend pose)

4. Ashwa Sanchalan asana (Lung Pose)

5. Parvatasan (Mountain pose)

6. Chaturanga Dandasana (Plank pose)

7. Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)

Benefits of Surya Namaskar –

1. Improves Blood Circulation of the Body

Due to the active process of inhalation and exhalation, the lungs are constantly ventilated and the blood remains oxygenated. It’s a great way of detoxing your body and helping it get rid of excess carbon dioxide and other toxic gases.

2. Effective in Weight loss

When done at a fast pace, it is a great cardiovascular workout that stretches the abdominal muscles while simultaneously helping you reduce excess weight around your stomach. So, technically, 10 minutes of Surya Namaskar translates into burning 139 calories. The asanas also result in toning your arms, abs and giving great flexibility to your spine. Moreover, It helps to strengthen your entire skeletal system including your ligaments.

3. Promotes a Regular Menstrual Cycle

If you’re facing the problem of an irregular menstrual cycle, these asanas will help you suppress this irregularity, helps easing menstrual cramps and if practiced daily, it ensures an easy childbirth.

4. Benefits your Skin and Hair

By incorporating it in your routine it will keep you youthful and healthy even in old age. It improves your blood circulation that aids in bringing back the glow on your face; preventing the onset of wrinkles, making your skin look ageless and radiant. It also prevents hair loss and the ageing of hair.

5. Anti-anxiety and Calming Properties

Surya Namaskar helps to improve memory and is beneficial to the the nervous system. It also  stabilizes the activity of the endocrine and thyroid glands, thereby reducing anxiety and inducing the sensation of complete calmness and tranquility.

when should Surya Namaskar be done ?

Surya Namaskar means salutation to the sun so it should ideally be done early in the morning facing the rising sun (facing East).