Surya Namaskar Sun Salutations
“Even after all this time the Sun never says to the Earth, ‘You owe me.’ Look what happens with a love like that, it lights the whole sky.”
~ Hafiz.
Surya Namaskar: Saluting the Sun
Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutations, is not just a series of yoga poses; it’s a heartfelt thank-you note to the sun. Think of it as a morning dance party where your moves are all about igniting the fire within. This practice celebrates the victory of light over darkness, wisdom over ignorance, and love over violence. Each flow invites those subtle, powerful parts of yourself to come along for the journey toward realization and enlightenment.
As the poet Hafiz so beautifully said: “Even after all this time the Sun never says to the Earth, ‘You owe me.’ Look what happens with a love like that, it lights the whole sky.”
So, let’s shine a little light on the history and deeper meaning of this glowing tradition.
A Little History: The Sun Never Sets
The sun doesn’t actually set, you know. It’s just the earth doing its daily twirl. But that doesn’t stop us from being in awe of the sun’s steadfast presence. In many cultures, the sun symbolizes integrity, honor, and respect. It’s the great equalizer, shining on everything and everyone — even that one houseplant you forgot to water. Practicing Surya Namaskar helps us emulate that boundless generosity, encouraging us to shine brightly and extend positivity to those around us.
The word “Surya” refers to the sun as the embodiment of Supreme Truth and Knowledge. It’s the cosmic alarm clock, awakening consciousness and nudging us toward enlightenment. “Namaskara”, derived from “namas” (to bow), is the act of reverence. Together, they form a practice that’s both grounding and uplifting.
Traditionally, Sun Salutations were performed facing East, welcoming the first rays of light. In Ashtanga Yoga, a classic morning sequence includes five rounds of Surya Namaskar A and five rounds of Surya Namaskar B, pausing for five breaths in Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog). This warm-up gets your joints moving, your spine flexing and extending, and your circulation revving. It’s like a wake-up call for your entire body—coffee optional.
Shining a Light Within
Sun Salutations aren’t just about honoring the sun outside of us; they’re also about bowing to our inner light. This is the place of truth, consciousness, and higher wisdom that resides within each of us—our spiritual heart. When practiced with devotion and inward awareness, Surya Namaskar becomes a moving meditation, a graceful dance that connects us to something bigger than ourselves.
Over the years, countless variations of Sun Salutations have emerged. Whether you stick to the traditional sequence or mix things up with creative flows, the essence remains the same: an acknowledgment of the light, both external and internal. So, whether you’re a sunrise warrior or a “brunch salutation” kind of yogi, remember to bring your whole heart to the mat.
Join me for a few rounds of Sun Salutations here - unroll your mat, face the sun, and let your practice shine. After all, the world could always use a little more light—and it starts with you.