Comprehensive Benefits of Surya Namaskar
The body-mind-spirit integration is probably one of the most important distinction that yoga has over other exercise routines. And in the case of practicing Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutations in Hatha Yoga, those benefits are placed at the forefront. And your ability to experience those benefits rely on your daily commitment into executing Sun Salutation exercises.
Surya Namaskar as Low Impact Workout
It can be hard to believe how an exercise routine that can be completed in 10 minutes or less could have such powerful results. This is the case with Surya Namaskar, which is a low impact exercises that offer health and mental benefits.
It is considered as a low impact workout that integrates elements of resistance and cardiovascular training into one. Indeed, the thing that sets Sun Salutations apart from the rest is that your enjoyment of its benefits do not end at the physical level. It goes beyond that and into your mind wherein the results are far-reaching.
Surya Namaskar vs Other Types of Workout
In comparison to other workout types, Surya Namaskar probably has far more health benefits and fewer health risks. Knowing what those risks and benefits are that other workout routines will help you gain a better understanding of forging your own safety, while at the same time equipping you with the knowledge you need to choose the right workout routine for yourself.
Although cardiovascular exercises have their own share of recognized benefits, the fitness community is also aware of the limitations to this type of workout. For instance, the intense fat burning experience triggered by the performance of these cardio exercises stop at the time you also stop exercising. There are other physical risks with cardio exercises such as tearing or wearing your joints.
In the case of resistance training, the benefits are promising: increase of muscle mass, fat burning, and increase in bone density. On the downside, it is painful and time consuming.
Physical Benefits
Below are some of the physical benefits that you can enjoy when performing Surya Namaskar:
- It promotes oxygenation of your blood, which is good for your cardiovascular system.
- It stretches your muscles and making them more flexible to avoid injuries.
- It improves your digestive function such that your body effectively eliminates all forms of toxins.
- It regulates function in your Endocrine system and all other glands composed in it.
- It tones your abdomen that produces a flat stomach and improve bowel movement.
Mental Benefits
Below are some of the benefits that you can experience with Surya Namaskar, beyond the physical level:
- It boosts your ability to focus and concentrate.
- It enables you to effectively combat stress, anxiety, and overcome depression.
- It promotes the production of serotonin in your body, which is responsible for developing that “feel good” sensation.
- It promotes better coordination between your mind and body, which is useful in everday form of communication.
Sun Salutation Techniques
Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutation is pretty basic in its approach, such that there are no real techniques available. The sole most important thing to remember is to execute it properly. Each pose would only take up between 30 to 40 seconds to complete such that the entire cycle might not last for more than 10 minutes in total.
At the end of each cycle, don't forget to add 2 minutes of relaxation. This will enable your body to “reset”, allowing you to execute the next series of poses quite efficiently. With only just 10 minutes to spare off your time each morning performing Surya Namaskar, it is amazing how big of a difference it can make!