In the physical practice of yoga, the session will usually begin with sun salutations. This series of twelve moving postures (asanas) are timed with breathing (inhaling and exhaling). The series is repeated anywhere from three times and on. Due to the nature of the sun salutation's constant movement, breath work, stretches and mental concentration, they encompass all components of fitness, and makes for a challenging and effective total body workout.
Top Five Benefits of Sun Salutations
1. Postures such as chaturanga, (negative tricep push up) Crescent pose, (lunges) and plank are body weight strength exercises that will burn more fat while at rest, decrease risk of injury and maintain bone density. Sun salutations strengthen the core very well, and yoga is commonly prescribed for low back injury and rehabilitation.
2. Sun Salutations have the potential to be very cardiovascular. Consistent movement, inverted poses (head lower than heart) like downward dog, and holding poses will improve heart and lung capacity, increase endurance and aid weight loss.
3. Poses like forward bends and downward dog will increase flexibility when practiced regularly. Sun Salutations are fantastic for releasing tension in the hamstrings and hips.
4. Focusing on timed breathing will increases mental focus and reduces stress. It teaches perseverance, mental toughness gives you a goal and something to think about to clear your mind during practice.
5. Sun Salutations will give you an all-around nice body! Yogis are known for their elongated muscles, lower body fat and athleticism.
This Saturday December 4th I will be participating in One Love Toronto. We will be performing two straight hours of sun salutations, fundraising for South Africans with AIDS, and the children orphaned by the disease. This will be more challenging than the half marathon I just ran in two hours! Not to mention it's the morning after my belly dancing student performance!
I have already reached my donation minimum (THANK YOU SPONSORS) but of course, every pledge helps. If you would like to donate in my name please visit the donation page and write "Kaleena Lawless," in the comments section.
Namaste
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