Sun Salutation (Suriya Namaskar) is a dynamic Yoga practice which combines physical postures (Asanas), breathing control (Pranayama), as well as concentration and meditation. Suriya Namaskar must be done slowly, with conscious concentration and awareness. When a practitioner gets into a posture, he doesn't stay long in it but lightly goes on to the next one. Thus, the gentle flowing movements of Asanas merge into a succession and are synchronized with the breath. It also regulates the breath and focuses the mind.

Sun Salutation should be done early at dawn, with a face turned eastwards. It could also be practiced at other times, but always on an empty stomach.

Stand up straight with your feet together and your hands in prayer fashion.

Inhale as you raise your arms up over your head, arching your back slightly.

Exhale as you slowly bend forward and bring your hands towards the floor. Keep your knees straight, don't bend them.

Inhale as you reach the left leg back and move your back into a straight up position. Keep your head and look upwards.

Slowly begin to exhale as you place your right leg back while keeping your hips up.

Keep your breath for a second then slowly lower your body to the floor, touching your chin, chest, knees, feet, and hands to the floor, and keeping your buttocks, thighs, and abdomen lifted.

Inhale, slide your body forwards, relax your lower torso, and slightly bend your upper torso, looking up until your arms are straight.

Exhale as you push back your hips and let your head fall down as in posture 5.

Inhale as you move your left leg forward, your head and look point upwards as in posture 4.

Exhale, bringing both feet together, then bend forward as in posture 3.

Inhale and stand up, stretching your arms back over your head, looking up as in posture 2.

Exhale as you bring your hands down in front of your chest as in posture 1.

The above mentioned posture description is the first series of movements. Begin the next succession of postures with exchanging places of your feet, e.g. when in posture 4 reach the right leg back; when in posture 9 you move your right leg forward. If you make the first two successions of movements, that makes a complex. Preferably, you should do three complexes at least, but of course, you could do more if you wish.

The most important thing you should remember while doing Sun Salutation, is that you should feel focused, self-controlled and relaxed. Bend you body as far as you feel comfortable and at ease – that's the main principle in Yoga.

Sun Salutation is a powerful practice that stimulates all muscle groups in your body, increases circulation, and makes the body more flexible. Regular practice stimulates the internal organs, promotes limberness of muscles and joints, as well as strength and balance throughout the entire body. After finishing the practice, which will take you only a few minutes, you will feel refreshed and full of energy.

Sun Salutation could make a wonderful start of your day :)