108 Sun Salutations
Surya Namaskar – the sun salutation. A powerful series of postures that allow you to stretch, build strength and find peace of mind. But 108 of them? Well that’s a bit much – you may think. And yes, it is a bit much. Though if you can push past the mental wall that can find its way into your thoughts – the repetitive practice of this series of asanas can be incredibly meditative and energizing.
To acknowledge the change that takes place each season, this ritual is often performed 4 times a year at the time of the summer and winter solstices and the spring and fall equinoxes.
Why 108?
108 is a revered number in many cultures and religions. It has significance to a number of groups for different reasons, some of which are listed below:
- 1 represents God or the One, 0 represents emptiness or completeness in a spiritual practice, and 8 represents infinity or eternity
- Traditionally there are 108 beads found on malas and Catholic rosaries to help practitioners keep track of his or her prayers or mantras
- According to Tao philosophy there are 108 sacred stars
- In Islam, 108 is used to refer to God
- There are 54 letters in the Sanskrit alphabet, each with a male and female connotation amounting to 108 characters total
- There are 108 Upanishads that make up some of the central thoughts of Hinduism
- There are 108 pithas or sacred sites found throughout India
- There are 108 marma or sacred points in the body
- 108 pathways in the heart chakras that can lead you to self-discovery
Where can you perform 108 sun salutations for a good cause?
June 18, 2016 Join Sandy and Rana in a 108 Sun Salutation challenge at Yoga Tree Vaughan. This 
event gives you the opportunity to tag-team the sun salutations with a friend. Challenge your body and mind to complete this practice – though keep in mind it is not required that you finish all 108 sun salutations! The event takes place from 10:30am to 1:30pm. There is a recommended cash donation of $20 per individual and all proceeds will go to the Toronto Humane Society – an organization that promotes the humane care and protection of all animals and to prevent cruelty and suffering.
August 20, 2016 Join Queenie and a number of other teachers from Toronto studios in a Yogathon to raise funds to support Care for Children – a charity program that provides free education for rural youth in India. This event takes place at Yonge Dundas Square – registration is at 9:30 am and sun salutations begin at 10 am.
Hopefully you will be able to join us in celebrating the new season and supporting good causes. If you choose to take part and challenge yourself mentally and physically, I am sure you will leave feeling fulfilled and accomplished. It is a wonderful experience to practice with a large group and we hope to share it with you!
