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described above; if practising for mental concentradon or for a more meditadonal effect, begin with the left leg
which will activate ida nadi. Beeja mantras: As an alternative to the twelve names of the
sun, there is a series of beeja mantras or seed syllables. Beeja mantras do not have any literal meaning but set up powerful vibrations of energy within the mind and body. The beeja mantras are six in number and are repeated consecutively in the following order, four times during a complete round of surya namaskara:
1. Om Hraam 4. Om Hraim 2. Om Hreem
5. Om Hraum 3. Om Hroom 6. Om Hrah When surya namaskara is practised too fast to repeat the
sun mantras, the beeja mantras may be used. Duration: For spiritual benefits, practise 3 to 12 rounds slowly.
For physical benefits, practise 3 to 12 rounds more quickly. Beginners should start with 2 or 3 rounds and add one more round every few weeks to avoid fatigue. Advanced students may practise a larger number of rounds, however, strain should be avoided at all times. In special cases, a daily practice of 108 rounds may be undertaken for
purification, but only under expert guidance. Sequence: Surya namaskara is ideally practised before other
asanas. Contra-indications: The practice of surya namaskara should
be immediately discontinued if a fever, acute inflammation, boils or rashes occur. These may develop due to excess toxins in the body. When the toxins have been eliminated, the practice may be resumed. Surya namaskara should not be practised by people suffering from high blood pressure, coronary artery diseases, or by those who have had a stroke, as it may over stimulate or damage a weak heart or blood vessel system. It should also be avoided in cases of hernia or intestinal tuberculosis. People with back conditions should consult a medical expert before commencing this practice. Although some
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