Steps to Sun SalutationThe Sun Salutation is a graceful sequence of 12 postures linked by continuous flowing motion. Following are the Steps to Sun Salutation Step 1 Stand with your feet together. Place the palms of your hands together at chest level. Step 2 Inhale and raise your arms upward. Slowly stretch your arms backwards over your head. Step 3 Exhale and slowly bend forward, let your hands touch your feet or the ground. During the first round I like to stay here for a longer period of time. I will take several deep breaths and with each exhale lower myself further with a goal of getting my head to touch my knees. Step 4 Inhale and move your right leg back into a lunge position. Keep your hands and feet firmly placed on the ground. Make sure to look up. Step 5 While exhaling bring the left foot together with the right to plank position. Step 6 Continue to exhale as you lower your body to the floor until your feet, knees, and hands are touching the floor. For a more difficult variation hold yourself at the bottom of the position with just your hands and feet touching the floor. Step 7 Inhale and stretch forward and up. Use your arms to lift your torso. Make sure to listen to your body and only bend back as far as it feels safe and comfortable. (It is ok to keep your arms bent at the elbow) Step 8 Exhale and lift from the hips pushing back and up into downward dog. Step 9 Inhale and step your right foot forward into the lunge position. Step 10 Exhale and bring your feet together trying to bring your head to your knees. Step 11 Inhale and rise one vertebrae at a time. Keep your arms extended as you raise them above your head. Lean slightly back.
Step 12 Exhale and in a slow graceful motion let your arms go your sides. End by bringing your hands back to prayer position. Repeat this sequence but starting with your left foot next time. We hope you enjoy the yoga sun salutation.
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