What is Surya Namaskar?
Yoga experts say that doing 12 sets of Sun Salutation translates into doing 288 powerful yoga poses in a span of 12 to 15 minutes! Now that’s a powerful workout.

Why you should practise this?
A fit body + A fit mind. Surya Namaskar combines the best of both worlds.

Best time?
It’s ideal to do it in the morning at sunrise, on an empty stomach.
However, there is no restriction of timing, it can be practise at other hours too.

Where?
A well-ventilated place. Skip the air-conditioner if you can. Some fresh air will always bring you more goodness.

As a beginner, your mind tempts you to do the same as your teacher, or the flexible person next to you in class. But remember, each body comes with a different capacity The idea of yoga is not a competition.

Listen to your body and respect it; do not overstretch or go beyond your limits.

What is the ideal number of rounds I should do?
Ideally 12 rounds of Surya Namaskars daily (6 sets on your right side, 6 sets on your left side). Not to fret, as a beginner, you could start with two round go up to as many as you can when your stamina and strength builds up. You might reach 108 rounds one day!

What is the speed like?
Slow/Medium – to strengthen and tone body muscles.
Fast – for cardio workout.
Always remember, the breath is the most important tool in yoga.

Do I need supervision?
Like any other practice, it is better to learn under the guidance of a trained and experienced teacher. It will help you to understand the asanas/postures better.

How much calories do 30mins of Surya Namaskar burn?
Its an estimate of 28-30 rounds, at 13.9 calories burned at one round.
But this depends on your body as well. This is just an average benchmark.
Time to start scouting for yoga schools around your area.

Weightlifting – 199 calories
Tennis – 232 calories
Basketball – 265 calories
Beach Volleyball – 265 calories
Football – 298 calories
Bicycling (14 – 15.9 mph) – 331 calories
Rock Climbing – 364 calories
Running (7.5mph) – 414 calories
Surya Namaskar – 417 calories

*Data Courtesy: Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Artofliving.org*



World Yoga Day is on 21st June 2018, check around now if there are any free yoga classes being offered!​

Also, the recently launched Brinda Rishikumar’s devotional album ’Ayushman Bhava’features a Surya Namaskar mantra that you can listen to while performing your sun salutation.



Image credit : Pixabay & Readoo