Completing 108 Surya Namaskar during the spring equinox is a powerful and transformative practice. Let’s dive into the details of how you can approach it in your own practice.
This was my first ever attempt at completing a Yoga Mala and it was challenging but I’m glad I did it. Some advice, take your time and do it at your own pace. If you’re completing this in a group setting, listen to your body and take a rest when needed don’t compare yourself to those around. We had 2 hours to complete 108 cycles and I didn’t quite make it. I was about 5 cycles short, but considering it was my first time, I’m proud of myself for making it that far. Stretching and resting in between each cycle is strongly recommended. It gives your body a rest and allows you time to reflect on the process.
The instructors provided 27 marbles to help keep track of each of the 4 cycles planned. I switched between Surya Namaskar A (SNA)and Classical Surya Namaskar at first, but then I chose to follow the SNA cycle especially when I started to feel a little nauseous during the 2nd and 3rd cycle. After sitting for a minute or two, I started the next cycle and then my body and mind just connected and each pose flowed easily from one to another. Undulating from one asana to another with less effort in a continuous flow of energy from beginning to end. Will I feel sore tomorrow? Probably, but it was worth it and I would definitely do it again.
The Significance of 108:
The number 108 holds deep spiritual significance in yoga and Hinduism. It appears in various contexts, from the number of beads on a mala (prayer beads) to the distance between the Earth and the Sun. Here’s why it’s considered so auspicious:
- Cosmic Connection: The diameter of the Sun is approximately 108 times the diameter of the Earth. Thus, 108 symbolizes the cosmic relationship between us and the universe.
- Chakras and Energy: In yogic philosophy, there are 108 energy channels (nadis) converging at the heart chakra. Practicing 108 Surya Namaskar helps balance these energies.
- Spiritual Completion: The number 108 represents completion, wholeness, and spiritual fulfillment.
What Is a Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar)?
A Sun Salutation, or Surya Namaskar, is a sequence of yoga poses that pay homage to the sun. It combines movement, breath, and intention. Regardless of the yoga lineage you follow, the basic Sun Salutation includes the following postures:
- Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
- Upward Salute (Urdhva Hastasana)
- Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)
- Half Standing Forward Bend (Ardha Uttanasana)
- Plank Pose (Chaturanga Dandasana)
- Upward Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana) or Cobra Pose
- Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
How to Approach 108 Surya Namaskar:
- Set an Intention: Reflect on your purpose for practicing 108 Sun Salutations. Is it for personal growth, gratitude, or transformation?
- Start Gradually: If you’re new to this practice, begin with a smaller number (e.g., 27 or 54) and gradually increase.
- Spring Equinox: The equinox symbolizes balance and renewal. Choose this auspicious time to embark on your journey.
- Hydrate and Rest: Prepare by staying hydrated and getting adequate rest the night before.
- Break It Down: Divide the 108 into manageable sets (e.g., 9 rounds of 12 Sun Salutations each or 4 cycles of 27).
- Mindful Breathing: Sync your breath with movement. Inhale during upward movements, exhale during forward bends.
- Listen to Your Body: Honor your limits. Modify poses if needed and take breaks when necessary.
- Celebrate Completion: After the final round, take a moment to appreciate your accomplishment.
Remember, this practice is about more than physical endurance—it’s a journey inward. May your 108 Sun Salutations bring you clarity, strength, and connection. 🌞🙏
Sources:
Source: Conversation with Bing, 3/24/2024
(1) 108 Surya Namaskar | Sun Salutations | Daily Routine For 7 Day 100% Loss 2-3 inches. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ja4OXe7d_0.
(2) 108 Surya Namaskars in 57 Mins, Correct Breathing Technique [Ultimate Experience]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYRJz-m0tzg.
(3) Do 108 Surya Namaskars With Me! | 108 Surya Namaskar Count | Yogasan for Weight Loss|Sun Salutations. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkfoGutNJaM.
(4) Beginner’s Guide to Practicing 108 Sun Salutations – Yoga Rove. https://yogarove.com/108-sun-salutations/.
(5) Yoga House – 108 Sun Salutations for the Spring Equinox. https://yogahousellanelli.co.uk/108-Sun-Salutations.html.
(6) Mala Yoga – 108 Suryas Namaskar – Equinozio di Primavera. https://www.eventbrite.it/e/biglietti-mala-yoga-108-suryas-namaskar-equinozio-di-primavera-860050322667.
(7) Why the Number 108 Is Sacred in Yoga and Hinduism. https://www.yogajournal.com/yoga-101/spirituality/the-number-108/.
(8) en.wikipedia.org. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_Salutation.
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