The sun is a source of prana, the energy that vitalises our physical, mental and spiritual being. At the same time, yoga, through movement and conscious breathing, increases the flow of prana through the energetic channels and within the cells. Moreover, when we apply a gentle pressure to the glands in a pose, we stimulate the production of hormones activated by sunlight. A perfect combination to glow from the inside out!
A revitalising practice
When we practice yoga at dawn, the photons of red light from the sun in the first minutes of the day penetrate through the skin and the eyes, activating melanin and a photopigment-sensor in the retina that adjusts our circadian clock and many aspects of our health and mood.
The melanin, together with the antioxidants from a diet rich in raw foods, reduces inflammation, protects mitochondria and enhances metabolism. It also activates the lymphatic system and triggers collagen synthesis, excellent for skin health and for strengthening bones.
More Vitamin D
Practising yoga while absorbing the photons emitted by the noonday sun also yields energising effects, such as the synthesis of a higher amount of vitamin D and other molecules that also reduce inflammation and improve the transport of oxygen and nutrients to the cells.
Practising barefoot on the beach facilitates grounding—that is, absorbing electrons that help neutralise free radicals and boost health.
In addition to massaging our feet with the sand, the musculature is strengthened, circulation is improved, and we can enjoy the sensation of the breeze, the sand and the water.
The practice of yoga, exposed to the red and infrared light of dawn and dusk, is an antidote to counterbalance the hormonal chaos often caused by our tech-driven era.
On the other hand, performing this practice during the early hours of sunlight improves our mood and cognitive health, helping to shed everyday stress and anxiety and fostering greater hope and optimism. Regular practice also enhances digestion and night-time rest.
Recharge Your Mitochondria
With the solar yoga sequence I propose on these pages you will recharge your mitochondria to have energy throughout the day. To make it more complete, you can begin with seven rounds of Surya Namaskara, coordinating the breath with every movement; that is, when the head is above the pelvis inhale; when it is below, exhale.
1. Activate Your Receptors
Vrksasana. Place the sole of the right foot on the inner thigh of the left leg. Gently press, keeping the back and hips aligned. Inhale and lengthen the spine, raising the arms overhead. Bring the hands together above the head.
Exhale and draw the shoulders away from the ears. Breathe deeply seven times, absorb the prana and then repeat with the other leg.
2. Synchronise Your Clock
Virabhadrasana II. Take a large step back with the left foot. The hip opens slightly back. Bend the right leg, aligning the knee with the ankle. Keep the knee cap aligned with the second toe. Extend the arms out wide, palms facing the floor. Inhale, lengthen the torso and expand the chest. Exhale and soften the shoulders. Gaze forward over the right hand. Breathe five times and repeat with the other leg.
3. Activate the Brain
Eka pada adho mukha svanasana. Begin on hands and knees with a towel under you. Spread the fingers and press the palms into the floor. Inhale, lift the hips, send the sit bones toward the sky, push the hands into the floor and forward, while lengthening the spine. Relax the shoulders and keep them away from the ears.
Exhale, straighten the legs by pressing the heels into the floor. Inhale and lift one leg as shown. Try to keep the hips aligned with the torso. Breathe five times and repeat with the other leg. This pose renews your energy and stimulates the brain.
4. Strengthen and Reduce Inflammation
Eka pada rajakapotasana II. From the previous pose, place the left foot between the hands and bring the right knee to the floor. Rise up, bend the right leg to catch the foot from the inside with the right hand.
Rest the left arm on the leg, the palm receiving the sun’s energy. Relax the shoulders and hold the pose for five to seven gentle breaths. Repeat with the other leg.
5. Regenerate and Revitalise
Eka pada rajakapotasana I. From the previous pose, release the right foot and reach the hands forward, touching the ground with the fingertips. Open the hip of the front leg, placing the knee to one side. Extend the right leg so the top of the foot rests on the floor. Keep your gaze toward the sun with eyes softly closed and perform five to seven gentle breaths. Then repeat with the other leg. The pigeon pose opens the hips and the heart, and is relaxing.
6. Activate Detoxification
Paschimottanasana. Seated with the legs extended forward, inhale and lengthen the torso. Exhale and slowly fold forward, keeping the spine straight. Hold your feet and stretch the spine. Breathe.
As you fold forward you create a gentle compression that stimulates the abdominal organs and facilitates the elimination of toxins. You also stimulate the adrenal glands. Conclude by lying on your back to feel the red light of the sun on your eyelids.
