As the sun shines brightly and nature blossoms around us, this summer season brings a vibrant energy that ignites a sense of vitality and warmth. It's the perfect time to embrace the summer's energy and deepen our connection with the sun through restorative yoga and sun salutations. Through these practices, we can tap into the essence of summer, cultivating a harmonious balance between movement and stillness.
Sun salutations, also known as Surya Namaskar, is a dynamic sequence of 12 yoga poses
that are traditionally performed as a way to honor the sun and awaken the body's energy. In the context of restorative yoga, sun salutations take on a more gentle and nurturing approach. Rather than moving swiftly from one pose to another, restorative sun salutations allow us to savor each movement and find ease in the transitions.
Begin your restorative sun salutations by standing tall with your feet grounded and your palms pressed together at your heart center. As you inhale, slowly raise your arms overhead, basking in the warmth and energy of the imaginary sun. Exhale, and as you fold forward, feel a sense of surrender and release, letting go of any tension or stress. Take your time as you flow through the sequence, honoring the connection between your breath and movement.
Restorative yoga complements sun salutations beautifully by offering moments of deep
relaxation and rejuvenation. After each round of sun salutations, find respite in restorative poses such as Child's Pose, supported Bridge Pose, or Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose. These gentle postures allow your body and mind to rest, absorbing the energy and benefits of the sun salutations.
Embracing this energy also means attuning to the natural rhythms of the season. Take your practice outdoors, if possible, and allow the warmth of the sun to nourish your body as you move through the sequence. Feel the grass beneath your feet, listen to the sounds of nature, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings.