To mark International Yoga Day, we are dedicating ourselves to a sequence of exercises that is practiced in the most diverse ways all around the world. The sun salutation is perhaps one of the most popular yoga sequences. Depending on which style is followed or preferred, it is taught and practiced in many variations. And what would International Yoga Day be without a sun salutation?
Translated from Sanskrit, Sūrya Namaskāra literally means “salute to the sun.” It mobilizes, stretches and strengthens a wide variety of muscles, ligaments and tendons, and it activates the cardiovascular system. The sun prayer, as it is also known, is traditionally practiced in the morning. Throughout history, people have activated and mobilized their mind and body by turning to the sun and greeting it, allowing them to start the day full of strength and energy. The connection between mind and body, between movement and breathing, is one of the most important parts of the sun salute, as it allows you to lose yourself more in this meditative exercise.