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Surya namaskar (sun salutation)
सूर्य नमस्कार
A listing is not a recommendation.
Origin: India · Tradition: A sequence that spread in modern hatha yoga · Movement
What it is
A linked series of movements such as a forward bend, a plank, and upward- and downward-facing dog. It is done as a warm-up or a short bout of movement.
A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)
- Start at a slow tempo. If the wrists or low back are loaded, use a modification with the knees down or a wall.
- Do not compete on the number of rounds.
- Even in the morning on an empty stomach, stop if you feel dizzy.
Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice
- Tiredness
- Posture
- Muscle stiffness
- Stress or unease
Related symptom videos
Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)
C: Preliminary, small, or lower-quality studies, or mixed results. These notes should not be over-read
As exercise it has a cardiorespiratory load. High-quality evidence of a distinct therapeutic effect unique to the sun salutation is limited; it is part of yogic movement in general.
Sources
Safety notes
Overload of the wrists, shoulders, and low back. Some backward bends and inversions in high blood pressure or pregnancy.
If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.
Situations in which this is better avoided
- Acute low back pain in which forward or backward bending is strong
- Acute inflammation of the wrist
- A fast series in unmanaged severe high blood pressure