Sun Salutation, commonly referred to as Surya Namaskar, is a traditional yoga asana practiced for centuries. It is a series of 12 poses performed sequentially and is known for its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.

One of the benefits often associated with Surya Namaskar is weight loss. This article examines whether Surya Namaskar steps are truly effective for weight loss and what the scientific evidence has to say about this.

How Surya Namaskar Works

Surya Namaskar is a form of physical exercise that involves movements and stretches that work for multiple muscle groups. The practice is performed at a moderate to high intensity and can result in increased heart rate and calorie burn. The repetitive nature of Surya Namaskar also helps to improve flexibility and balance, which can contribute to weight loss.

One of the ways that Surya Namaskar helps with weight loss is through its effect on the

metabolism. The practice increases the metabolic rate, which means that the body burns more calories even when it is at rest. This can help to reduce body fat and can also lead to an improvement in overall health.

The Science of Weight Loss

Weight loss is a complex process influenced by multiple factors, including diet, physical

activity, and genetics. For weight loss to occur, the body must be in a caloric deficit, meaning it burns more calories than it consumes. Exercise, such as Surya Namaskar, can help to create this caloric deficit by increasing the number of calories burned.

There have been several studies conducted to examine the effect of Surya Namaskar steps on weight loss. A study conducted in India found that participants who practiced Surya Namaskar for 12 weeks lost an average of 2.6 kilograms or 5.7 pounds. Surya Namaskar can be an effective form of exercise for weight loss.

Another study in the United States found that Surya Namaskar effectively reduced body fat in overweight and obese individuals. Participants who performed Surya Namaskar for 30 minutes a day, five days a week, for 12 weeks lost an average of 3.5 kilograms or 7.7 pounds. This indicates that Surya Namaskar can be a valuable tool for losing weight.

Benefits of Surya Namaskar for Weight Loss

In addition to its direct effect on weight loss, Surya Namaskar offers several other benefits that can contribute to weight loss. These benefits include:

In addition to its direct effect on weight loss, Surya Namaskar offers several other benefits that can contribute to weight loss. These benefits include:

Improved metabolism: As mentioned earlier, Surya Namaskar can increase the metabolic rate, leading to improved weight loss results.

Increased muscle tone: The movements and stretches involved in Surya Namaskar can help tone and strengthen the muscles, resulting in improved overall body composition and weight loss.

Stress relief: Surya Namaskar is also known for its stress-relieving properties. Stress has a big role in weight gain since it can make the body create cortisol, a hormone that promotes it. Surya Namaskar can help lower the risk of weight gain by lowering stress.

Improved digestion: Surya Namaskar can also help to improve digestion, which can lead to improved weight loss results. When the digestive system functions properly, the body can more effectively process food and extract nutrients, leading to improved weight loss.

In conclusion, Surya Namaskar, a traditional yoga practice, can be an effective tool for weight loss. The combination of physical movements and deep breathing helps to boost metabolism and burn calories, leading to weight loss over time. Additionally, Surya Namaskar helps to build strength, flexibility, and balance, which can further contribute to weight loss and overall health.

However, it is important to remember that weight loss results will vary and can be influenced by other factors such as diet and lifestyle. As with any exercise program, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting, listen to your body, and make modifications as needed. Surya Namaskar can be a helpful and holistic approach to weight loss when practiced consistently and as part of a balanced lifestyle.