How to do the Salute to the Sun

The Salute to the Sun is usually practiced at the beginning of the morning yoga session. The twelve positions correspond to the twelve sings of the zodiac. Every major muscle and organ of the body is affected by these twelve movements.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Yoga Mat

1. 
   First Posture

   Face the sun if outdoors. Standing erect, fold the hands on the chest in a prayer position

2. 
   Second Posture

   As you inhale, raise the arms overhead and bend backward

3. 
   Third Posture

   Exhale as you bend forward and place your hands on the floor beside your feet (Bend your knees if you have to)

4. 
   Forth Posture

   Inhale, take a giant step backward with the right leg; bend the head back. Exhale

5. 
   Fifth Posture

   Inhale as you move the left leg back. The body should be straight

6. 
   Sixth Posture

   Exhale as you lower your chest, forehead and knees to the floor. Keep the buttocks raised.

7. 
   Seventh Posture

   Inhale, straighten the elbows and bend backwards hips on the floor. Bend the back into a Cobra-like position.

8. 
   Eight Posture

   Exhale and lift the hips so the body is in a inverted V. Keep the hands and feet flat on the floor

9. 
   Ninth Posture

   Inhale and bring the right foot between the hands, the left knee on the floor. Look up.

10. 
    Tenth Posture

    Exhale as you place the left foot between the hands (Bend the knees only if you have to)

11. 
    Eleventh Posture

    Inhale as you raise the arms overhead. Bend backward.

12. 
    Twelveth Posture

    Exhale, lower the arms and relax

Tips & Warnings

• This should be done daily

Resources

• Video Jug Video on the Subject