Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Sun Salutation - Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga (VIDEOS)

Since ancient times yogis taught that each of us replicates the entire universe, embodying stars, planets, rivers, seas, mountains, fields, the moon and the sun. Our outer sun, they asserted, is in reality a token of our own "inner sun," which corresponds to our subtle, or spiritual heart. Herein lies the seat of consciousness and higher wisdom (jnana) and, in some traditions, the domicile of the embodied self (jivatman).

Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutation, is a common sequence of both hatha and ashtanga yoga asanas, practiced to warm-up the body at the beginning of yoga practice, whether in a class or at home. Embracing the ancient yogic tradition of prayer and prostration to the sun, this series (performed dynamically) pays homage to the life-giving power of our sun’s energy while preparing the body for subsequent asanas. There are many variations of Sun Salutation, which generally include 12 progressive poses. The Ashtanga Vinyasa primary series begins with Surya Namaskara “A” and “B” (or Sun Salutations A and B), which are traditionally repeated five times each. Surya Namaskara “A” consists of nine movements and Suyra Namaskara “B” consists of 17 movements, all in conjunction with the breath.

Sun Salutation strengthens and stretches the entire body, keeping the spine flexible while enhancing endurance, increasing energy, improving circulation and balancing the spirit. The following video is an introduction and brief tutorial on Sun Salutation “A”...


Sun Salutation “B” extends the flow of first sun salutation. As shown in the following video, the Sun Salutation “B” sequence is longer and includes additional standing postures such as Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I) and Utkatasana (Chair Pose)...


Both these video presentations of Sun Salutation as taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in the Ashanga Vinyasa Yoga system are also taught in the Fred Busch Power Yoga Teacher Training.

For more on the subject of yoga, from beginner’s instruction to all levels of teacher training and certification visit the following sites...
www.fredbusch.com (Fred Busch's Website - Director of Teacher Training)
www.miamiyoga.com (Miami Yoga's Main Site)
www.brickellyoga.com (Brickell Hot Yoga Studio Site)
www.salamadhi.com (Fred's retreat center Colorado

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