The Madhya Pradesh government has commanded all the educational institutions in the state to hold Surya Namaskar and Pranayam sessions today, to mark the birth anniversary of spiritual leader Swami Vivekananda. However, it was also made it clear that participation in the Surya Namaskar or sun salutations would not be mandatory. A government press release said today that the "Surya Namaskar and Pranayam will be performed in all academic institutions from 9 a.m tomorrow."
Surya namaskar or sun salutation is a gesture of showing gratitude to the sun. It is a set of 12 yoga asanas which bring your body, breath and mind together. When performed in the morning, it revitalises your body and refreshes your mind, leaves you feeling energetic throughout the course of the day. Have a look at 5 amazing benefits of Surya Namaskar.
Weight loss
When it comes to a good cardiovascular workout, somehow yoga is not known to shed an insane number of calories like say a run on the treadmill or a jog in the park. But Surya Namaskara begs to differ. When done at a quick pace; it can boost your metabolism, shed unwanted pounds and work on your abdominal muscles.
Secret to flawless skin
Yes, sun salutations can give you that unmistakable glow that even your best makeup perhaps can’t. You don’t believe us, do you? Well, all you really have to do this try a few fast sun salutations on your yoga mat in the wee hours of the morning. A few days into this routine will make a difference to your skin.
Reduces joint pain
Joint pain is an inevitability. As we grow older, we all end up with joint –pain, right? Wrong! Not when you exercise well and eat well; and by exercising we mean adding Surya Namaskars to your daily routine. This exercise adds strength to your joints and ligaments, as well as your skeletal system. Performing the postures lithely, tones your body and also massages your vital organs.
Detoxifies the body
The quick inhalation and exhalation in a Surya namaskar helps in detoxification. The cells and blood get oxygenated and get rid of the toxic gasses accumulated in the body.
Keeps anxiety and tension away
Have an important meeting coming up today? Try fitting in a few rounds of Surya namaskar. You will not only feel calmer but also will be able to handle things better. Not only that, it also helps your endocrine glands function better, especially the thyroid gland.
