One set of Surya Namaskar burns 14 calories
Surya Namaskar is a wholesome workout. The 12 sets of salutation to the Sun God is very effective in toning the body and management of the weight. It is believed that one set of Surya Namaskar translates to doing 288 yoga poses in a span of 12-18 minutes.
The 12 salutations to the Sun God
Pranamasana (Prayer pose)
Hastauttanasana (Raised arms pose)
Hastapadasana (Standing forward bend)
Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Equestrian pose)
Dandasana (Stick pose)
Ashtanga Namaskara (Salute with eight parts or points)
Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward facing dog pose)
Ashwa Sanchalanasana (Equestrian pose)
Hastapadasana (Standing forward bend)
Hastauttanasana (Raised arms pose)
Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
Easy to do
Surya Namaskar is very easy to do. You don’t need any equipment to do it. All you need is an open space. Make sure there is a good passage of air while you are doing Surya Namaskar so that while doing the poses you inhale clean and fresh air.
Works best in the morning
This salutation to Sun god is said to work best during sun rise. As per Hinduism, offering prayers and salutation to the rising sun brings in good luck. Also, health experts have always suggested waking up before the sun rises and stretching the body in order to prevent morning stiffness.
Full body workout
Surya Namaskar is a complete workout. It works on the body from head to toe. The 12 sets of namaskar work on various body parts hence when done together you might not require any other form of workout.
As per the website of Art of Living, “it purifies the blood and improves blood circulation throughout the body, and ensures proper functioning of the stomach, bowels, and nerve centers. Practicing Sun Salutation daily helps balance the three constitutions – Vata, Pitta and Kapha – that the body is made up of.”
Burn lots of calories
One set of Surya Namaskar which comprises 12 namaskars can burn up to 14 calories.
You can increase the number of sets as per your stamina and time and can incorporate this easy to do exercise in your daily life.
Calms mind
Surya Namaskar, as a yogic workout, calms the mind. It nourishes the mind with positivity and uproots pessimism.
Imagine doing sets of Surya Namaskar on a calm, serene and bright morning!