Surya Namaskara Sadhana

Written By Anjika Morari

At the end of each month, we host our Surya Namaskara Marathon of 108 rounds for our in-person and online students. I began this monthly practice with my teachers in Mysore and each month I love sharing it with you all!

In this post, we discuss the significance of this practice and how to prepare for it! Please read and feel free to comment! Especially if you have participated in the Surya Namaskara Marathon before - what was your experience like?

What is Surya Namaskara?

The Sun impacts every existence on Earth and Surya Namaskara is one of the oldest and most powerful practices in Yoga. It has evolved to consist of 12 asanas practiced together in a flow. This is a full practice all on its own! In this one sequence - we coordinate our breath, presence, and all directions of our body - leaving us awake and energized.

The Surya Namaskara is a "chalana" - a dynamic meditation. It does not mean "sun salutation", nor is it just a "warm-up". Surya Namaskara actually means to invoke the sun that exists within you. That same radiance, strong energy, and unwavering endurance exists within you as well, and this monthly challenge reminds you of this.

There is a sense of surrendering while practicing the Surya Namaskara - we are actively bowing down to the Sun in gratitude for all that it provides. It is simply an opportunity to surrender in front of all that you are grateful for - it could be as simple as the sun rising or it could be towards the many mentors/things that have led you to be exactly who you are right now.

Whatever it is you are grateful for, remember it while you practice your Surya Namaskara, and you are left filled with positivity that will radiate through the rest of your day.

The Marathon -

While in your daily practice it is common to practice 12 rounds, in our Marathon we practice 108 rounds continuously. It serves as a monthly challenge and reminder to tap into our strength, willpower, and self-belief. This is a full "check-in" and fitness challenge for all. Each time, go up to your comfortable limit and challenge yourself - grow your physical, mental, and spiritual health all in one.

How to Prepare -

This meditation is open to all! However, a proper amount of preparation is important before attempting your first marathon. Practice at least 12 rounds of Surya Namaskara a day for one month to help build your awareness, alignment, and endurance.

Check your alignment and practice with a teacher. While you may be sore after a marathon, if there is any body pain after a marathon - it is a reminder to check your form and practice.

Lastly, don't be intimidated by the number 108. We count by 30, 60, 90, and 108 rounds - and there are many resting asanas you can take in between if you need it. See what your comfortable limit is and each month, come back ready to try again!

This is truly one of my favorite yogic practices and I look forward to it each month! It refreshes my perspective, renews my love for practicing and teaching, and it reminds me of the light that we all carry within us.

Look out for our emails and monthly schedule for the next Surya Namaskara Marathon! :)

See you on the Mat,

Anjika

Build Your Practice, Build Your Self 🏹☀️