Many practitioners have reported sensations of lightness and ‘floating’ after a yoga session. They report how the muscles feel limber and the body feels almost weightless. This isn’t merely an imaginary state of mind, one actually experiences this feeling.
After doing several rounds of Surya Namaskar, there is a significant impact on brain chemistry. Sun Salutations aren’t just popular for their physical benefits; they are also known for their ability to induce a state of mental euphoria popularly called the “yoga high.” This exhilarating feeling is a result of complex interactions between movement, breath, and mental focus. Read on to see how Surya Namaskar Yoga triggers positive changes in the brain.
Understanding Surya Namaskar
The Surya Namaskar sequence of 12 dynamic postures activates nearly every muscle group in the body. Every movement is accompanied with deep, mindful breathing, which induces deep oxygenation, infusion of life enhancing panic energy and it puts one in a focussed meditative mode, stimulating one at both the physical as well as mental level.
Traditionally, the sequence of Surya Namaskar Yoga is performed in the morning, to honour the Sun, the mighty symbol of energy, health, vitality and life. While Surya Namaskar is well known for improving flexibility and strength, when practitioners do it regularly, they also notice a profound sense of clarity and happiness.
The Science Behind the Yoga High
Those who think that the euphoric state caused by Surya Namaskar is just anecdotal, are mistaken. The Benefits of Surya Namaskar are backed by science. When we practice Surya Namaskar, our body releases endorphins, or the “feel-good” hormones that help to reduce pain and make humans happy.
The rhythmic, flowing movements stimulate the release of these endorphins, similar to how running triggers a “runner’s high.” The difference, however, is that Surya Namaskar is able to achieve both physical and mental release. The deep breathing techniques while performing Sun Salutation, increase oxygen intake, which improves blood flow to the brain. The forward bends in Surya Namaskar further send Oxygen rushing to the brain. This deep oxygenation process helps the brain to produce and release greater amounts of serotonin, which is another neurotransmitter linked to feelings of happiness and calmness.
Activation of the Parasympathetic Nervous System
Surya Namaskar plays a crucial role in activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s normal, everyday, relaxed bodily functions. The forward and backward bends stimulate both the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems bringing them into a state of balance, however the deep controlled breathing has a strong impact on the parasympathetic division of our nervous system In a world where most people live in a constant state of stress, yoga, and particularly sequences like Surya Namaskar, act as an antidote. The deep, conscious breathing sets a relaxed tone for the brain which calms down, reducing cortisol levels and promoting a state of ease. This shift in the nervous system allows the mind to experience peace, and over time the body becomes more adept at handling stress.
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