The Transformative Journey with Surya Namaskar
Balance, Concentration, Synchrony and Seeking Perfection.
The Sadhana of Surya Namaskar, a sequence of yoga postures dedicated to the sun, offers a wealth of benefits for both body and mind. Through its blend of physical movements and spiritual focus, Surya Namaskar becomes a gateway to holistic well-being.
Over the past two decades, my journey with Yoga has been deeply enriched by the practice of Surya Namaskar. Among countless sessions with various yoga instructors, one Saturday morning at Juhu Beach in Mumbai stands out vividly. It was there that I undertook the challenge of completing 108 rounds of Surya Namaskar in a single session organised by Shri Himanshu Mehta. What began as a physical feat soon transformed into a profound inner journey of self-discovery and improvement, with each asana and each breath becoming a stepping stone towards personal growth.
Every Saturday morning, amidst the serene backdrop of PanchaMahabhutas, I gather with fellow practitioners under the guidance of Shri Himanshu Mehta for a unique Surya Namaskar practice. Our session involves a slower, more deliberate approach, completing twelve rounds in an hour. With chakra meditation, verbalizing each asana, and chanting mantras, I even perform the practice blindfolded. This method, distinct from the fast-paced 108 rounds I once enjoyed, has brought a new depth to my practice.
The practice of Surya Namaskar holds profound implications for how we navigate our lives. Concepts like balance, concentration, harmony, and seeking perfection resonate deeply with the principles of yoga. These integral components bear a resemblance to Ashtanga Yoga, akin to the eight limbs expounded in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.
Balance
“Sthira- sukham asanam” (Patanjali Yoga Sutra 2.46) is about a still and comfortable posture. Balance is cultivated through careful attention to posture, breath control, and inner focus. Whether transitioning into Ashwa Sanchala asana or ashtanga asana, finding equilibrium on the mat parallels finding balance in life.
Concentration
As the saying goes, 'Where the eyes wander, the mind follows.” Concentration is honed by performing postures blindfolded, redirecting focus inward and fostering mindfulness in every movement and breath. The rhythm of regulated breathing enhances self-awareness and mental clarity.
Seeking Perfection
The sequence of asanas isn't merely a series of physical postures; rather, they must be executed with precision to unlock their full benefits. Each bend, breath hold, placement of hands and feet, and stretch of the body must be carefully attended to during practice. This meticulous attention to detail is essential for harnessing the true essence of Surya Namaskar. Seeking perfection involves meticulous attention to detail in each asana, ensuring proper alignment and breath synchronization. The pursuit of perfection in Surya Namaskar mirrors the continuous journey of self-improvement in life.
Synchrony
Synchrony is achieved when practicing Surya Namaskar in a group, where every member moves in harmony, paying homage to the sun with precision and gratitude. Like a flock of birds flying in formation, each movement becomes a testament to collective energy and focus. Yoga transcends mere exercise when such synchronicity is attained, transforming into a graceful art form.
Surya Namaskar is not merely a physical workout but a complete practice for body, mind, and soul. In its essence, it is a gesture of gratitude to the sun, the ultimate source of energy and life.
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