That’s Hot: Dancing With The Sun
Surya Namaskar is like a dance. A dance to the phases of the sun from its energetic rise and arch to its gentle setting. Matisse painted dancers in his second version of La Danse (1910) by adding red to their bodies. This can be interpreted as heat from movement making us red as a sunburn. But, the purpose of sun salutations is not exhaustion. It is to energize the body and mind for the day. This energy is partnered with balance and not to be overdone like HITT or pilates.
Just as the sun does not shine the same every day, sun salutations are not to be done the same way for everyone. Individual energy, or dosha, influences the speed of sun salutations. It is a personalized approach that addresses metabolism and body type (somatotypes). Only six rounds are recommended for all somatotypes, but the pace is important to be effective.
For people who tend to lose weight easily and are lean (ectomorph) with dry skin, a medium flow tempo is effective. This method does not overly trigger the amygdala and adrenal system, which can increase anxiety in Vata doshas.
For those who gain weight quickly and are more rounded (endomorph) with oily skin, sun salutations that are faster is advantageous. The fast pace helps to increase metabolism, thus fighting off lethargy that can weigh down Kapha-dominant types in the morning.
People who tend to feel hot and have medium or athletic builds (mesomorph) are advised to take it slow. Fast movement will aggravate hot qualities like excessive digestive fire and irritability. The cardiovascular system can also be disrupted by high blood pressure from the asanas in this flow.
Bottom Line:
Sun salutations are especially important during the colder months to fend of seasonal emotional disturbances, such as depression. But, what use is the body if it is too exhausted from exercise- a practice that is meant to give mental and physical health. Starting with one round and working up to six is effective in finding a personalized rhythm. It is best to do sun salutations in the morning with the sunrise, focus on breath, and most importantly, just go with the flow.
*The information presented is not a substitute for medical guidance. Please speak with your doctor prior to making decisions about your health.