________________
back conditions may be alleviated by this practice, conditions such as slipped disc and sciatica will be better managed through an alternative asana programme. During the onset of menstruation, this practice should be avoided. If there are no adverse effects, the practice may be resumed after the initial flow or towards the end of the period. During pregnancy it may be practised with care until the beginning of the twelfth week. Following childbirth, it may be commenced approximately forty days
after delivery for re-toning the uterine muscles. General benefits: The practice of surya namaskara as a whole
gives a great number of benefits. It stimulates and balances all the systems of the body, including the endocrine, circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems. Its influence on the pineal gland and the hypothalamus helps to prevent pineal degeneration and calcification. This balances the transition period between childhood and adolescence in growing children. Synchronising the breath with the physical movements of surya namaskara ensures that the practitioner, at least for a few minutes daily, breathes as deeply and rhythmically as possible. This removes carbon dioxide from the lungs and replaces it with fresh oxygen, increasing mental clarity by bringing fresh, oxygenated blood to the brain. To conclude, surya namaskara is the ideal practice to
increase awareness and bestow good health and wellbeing. Note: For more information on this practice see the Bihar School of
Yoga publication Surya Namaskara: A Technique of Solar Revitalization.
172
