Namaskar is a special type of vinyasa, a ritual offering in the form of a synchronized sequence of mudras or asanas. This is a kind of movement alchemy, designed to awaken and transform the mover. Classical sequences such as Surya Namaskar and Chandra (moon) Namaskar are integrated with mantras that correspond to the phases of the sun and moon, to awaken a corresponding inner movement. Namaskar beyond yoga is not yet widely known, yet other “salutation” forms are found in Indian classical dance and marital arts such as kalarippayatu.

Poses and Mantras

Here are the 12 poses of classical Surya N...