Ashtanga Namaskara (Salute with eight parts or points):
Ashtanga Namaskara or the Eight-Limbed salutation is part of the Sun Salutation series of asanas. It appears as the 6th pose in the Sun Salutation or Surya Namaskara. In this pose, the body touches the ground in eight locations – the two feet (toes), the two knees, the two palms, the chest and the head. In Sanskrit, “ashta” means eight and “anga” means part. Hence the name Ashtanga Namaskara.
How to do Ashtanga Namaskara (The Eight-Limbed Salutation)
- Lower the body so that the body is parallel to the ground.
- Let the following parts touch the floor – The two feet, the two knees, the two palms, the chest and the chin.
- The hip and abdomen are slightly raised up.
- While performing this pose the breath is held outside and the breathing is stopped for a few seconds.
Benefits of Ashtanga Namaskara (The Eight-Limbed Salutation)
- It strengthens the muscles of the hands and legs.
- It strengthens the chest.
- Improves the Flexibility and Posture.
- With the knees, chest, and chin on the floor, this posture actually works the entire body, from the muscles of the neck to the shoulders, upper arms, forearms, back, and abdomen. It especially strengthens joints in the legs and arms, particularly the wrists.