What is Surya Namaskar | Sun Salutations?

Surya Namaskar, or show gratitude to the sun, or as we yogis know it, Sun Salutations, is a yogic flow sequence to honor and show gratitude to our divine sun. In ancient times, Hindus would perform sun salutations in the morning to thank the sun for its light, warmth, and power, which make life on earth possible. This sequence could help with circulation, and balancing and reducing stress and anxiety. It's also helpful to prepare for a meditative practice. So today, as we near the summer solstice, we will practice a few flow throughs of this warming sequence. Modify or amplify poses as needed. You know your body best!

We'll start by standing in mountain pose, palms forward

Inhale in, raising your arms

Exhale, forward fold

Inhale, half lift, fingertips to shins

Exhale, bring your hands to the mat to step back to plank

Chaturanga keeping your elbows tight to your sides and come into cobra pose, chin lifted Tucking your toes under, shift your weight back to downward dog, hips to the sky, lengthening your spine Step forward, and inhale to mountain pose to begin again Repeat this sequence until your body and soul feel warm!