The Sun Salutation B, or the Surya Namaskar B is a traditional yoga practice and goes back centuries. It is derived from Indian yogic practices which originated in South Asia and is still practiced in many parts of the world. The practice is intended to bring one closer to the sun, drawing energy from the divine light and radiating it through the body. As a part of this ancient practice, many people incorporate physical postures that are usually performed in a sequential manner.
Purpose of the Sun Salutation B
The purpose of Surya Namaskar B is to awaken prana or life force in the body and to tap into the cosmic energy present throughout the universe. It is the perfect practice for energizing and refreshing body, mind and soul. While practicing Surya Namaskar, one must move verbally with power and enthusiasm by chanting mantras. This elevates the practice from a mere physical exercise to a powerful spiritual journey of connecting to one’s higher power. With the power of mantra and breath, the mental and emotional energies in the body become balanced. The movement of prana is guided by the sequence of postures that are usually performed while chanting the mantras.
Sequence of the Sun Salutation B
The sequence of Surya Namaskar B follows a set pattern and consists of 12 asanas, or postures, that focus on various body parts. The 12 postures are: Pranamasana (prayer pose), Hastauttanasana (raised arm pose), Hasta Padasana (hands to foot pose), Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (upward facing dog pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (downward facing dog pose), Urdhva Svanasana (backward bend), Ashtanga Namaskara (eight-limbed pose), Bhujangasana (cobra pose), Parvatasana (mountain pose), Anjaneyasana (low lunge pose), Uttanasana (forward bend) and Virabhadrasana (warrior pose).
Benefits of the Sun Salutation B
Surya Namaskar B is beneficial in numerous ways and has a positive effect on the body, mind and spirit. It increases flexibility in the back, hips, arms and shoulder areas and prevents stiffness in the body. It tones the body muscles and strengthens the arms, legs and abdominal muscles. On the emotional level, it conveys a feeling of peace, lightness and joy. On the mental level, it is calming and centering and helps build concentration, awareness and mindfulness. Regular practice of Surya Namaskar is said to lower stress, fatigue and increase vigor and vitality.
Conclusion
Surya Namaskar B is a powerful practice that dates back centuries and is designed to bring balance to the body, mind and spirit. It is a sequence of 12 postures that can be practiced while chanting mantras or silently in meditation. It increases flexibility, strengthens the muscles, brings peace and joy and lowers stress. With a regular practice, one can gain clarity and achieve mental balance.
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