THE 108 SUN SALUTATIONS RITUAL

APPROACHING THE CHANGE OF SEASON

The seasons are the rhythm of nature's changes that we must follow to stay in harmony with our environment. These transitions from one season to another can create imbalances in our doshas (Pitta, Vata, Kapha) which are the essential components of our body. If we do not respect the cycles of nature, our body will be put under stress.

Apart from practicing series around the 5 elements (Water, Air, Fire, Space, Earth) that we try to balance in each season, the ritual of 108 sun salutations, Surya Namaskara, is recommended at the change of season to activate the digestive fire which needs to be stronger. 108 is the sacred number in yoga and Ayurveda, which symbolizes the supreme existence and which is found in astrology and astronomy. In Ayurveda, we find the 108 Marma points marked on our body, there are 108 goddesses, 108 different names for Indian deities, 108 pearls for a mala... 1 represents the supreme consciousness and the Self, it is the number of union, 0 represents nothingness, the complete stop of thought, and the number 8 symbolizes infinity, Prakriti, evolution and continuous change.

The combination of the three numbers gives 108, the perfect number. 108 is the whole, ecstasy, liberation, enlightenment.

While this practice is somewhat challenging, practicing together helps to tap into the group energy even though everyone is moving at their own pace. Since there are many greetings, everyone can adapt their style to suit their energy.

To organize a class to celebrate the change of season with the 108 salutations, you should plan two hours of practice. The teacher starts by guiding the first 10 and then lets the students find their own rhythms so that the breathing is as consistent as possible with the movements. Adho Mukha Svanasana or Tadasana are the two postures after which we can take a short break; after Adho Mukha Svanasana the break will be taken in Adho Mukha Virasana and after Tadasana will be a Tadasana with the eyes closed.

The arrangement of the mats can be done in the sun for a visual motivation effect!

In order not to get lost in the calculation of the greetings, it is necessary to plan beforehand which greetings, in which order and how they will be practiced. For example, you guide the first 10 greetings A and then the students choose to add 4 cycles of 10 greetings A, then 5 cycles 10 greetings B and finish with 8 greetings A to start calming the body before the end.